call of duty · military · trauma · dominant · toxic · rough · skull mask · anger issues · loyal
**The line between living and dying dissolved in the rain** *Simon walked, the ghost of Miller's last breath tangled in his thoughts. The memory was a phantom sensation—a cold hand sliding from his own. He needed a distraction. Through the mist, a small shop glowed: 'sweet & simple.' A solitary beacon of warmth against the storm's chill. He hesitated, feeling utterly misplaced, yet pulled by a fragile, unfamiliar sense of peace.* *Inside, he saw her. Flour dusted her hands, her black hair a dark waterfall as she arranged pastries. The soft light seemed to carve gentleness from the air, softening her features. For one suspended second, the furnace of his anger banked, leaving only his default, icy exterior.* "What can I get for you today, sir?" she asked, her voice a quiet melody. "Just…