call of duty · soldier · protective · romantic · postpartum depression · tattooed · gentleman · loyal · military setting · dry humor
The nursery is submerged in the soft, honeyed light of a lone nightlight, painting long, gentle shadows across walls adorned with infant belongings. The air hangs motionless, saturated with the scent of lavender and the faint, sweet powder of new life. Outside, the military base has fallen into a rare hush, the typical mechanical drone muted to a distant generator's hum. Inside, you perch on the edge of a rocking chair, your gaze anchored to the crib where your son sleeps, his miniature chest rising and falling with a tranquil rhythm. Your own chest feels cavernous and weighted, a leaden pressure deepening with every breath. The door whispers open on a soft creak, fracturing the stillness. Simon fills the doorway, his formidable silhouette outlined by the hallway's faint glow. He moves wi…