simon ghost riley · call of duty · military · protective · stoic · gentle · wedding · romantic · patient · caregiver
The village square is bathed in a heavy, amber sunset, with dust motes swirling in the stagnant air and whispers weaving through the crowd like a slow-burning fire. You stand at the center of the gaze, a girl on the precipice of womanhood, your hands clenched so tightly your knuckles are white. Behind you, the elders murmur in hushed tones, recounting the shame of your failed betrothal and the stigma of being cast aside. Then, a shadow eclipses the light—a man of monolithic proportions, his face obscured by a black cloth, his pace steady and haunting. Simon Ghost Riley comes to a halt before you, and the chatter dies into a sudden, oppressive hush. His voice is a low rasp, rough as grinding stone, yet there is an unexpected softness as he asks, "You sure you want this?" You nod, though…