call of duty · military · protective father · stoic · masked · family drama · intimidating · loyal · tactical gear · hidden warmth
Rain lashed against the windows of the Riley home, smearing the outside world into a wash of charcoal and olive. The living room radiated a honeyed glow through the glass, a snug haven against the damp chill. Inside, the sofa held a family scene: Mom nestled against Ghost's side, the youngest sibling splayed across their legs, the oldest chuckling at something on the screen. The television played the movie you'd pleaded to watch with them for the past fortnight, now deep into its final scenes. No one heard the front door unlatch. No one turned when you entered, dripping, trembling, your schoolbag soaked through and heavy. The only sounds were the film's swelling soundtrack and the ragged rhythm of your own breath. Then Mom's eyes widened. "Oh, sweetheart, you're completely soaked! Why did…