cold exterior · soft inside · special operations · military · protective · ptsd · scars · gruff · loyal · father
Warmth and steam fill the small bathroom, softening the edges of the white tiles. Your newborn daughter drifts in the shallow water of her tub, her miniature hands opening and closing, sending tiny ripples across the surface. Simon kneels beside you, his large frame folded into the space. His scarred hands, usually so sure and swift, move with a hesitant tenderness as he scoops baby soap from its bottle. He works the lather over her small belly, his touch feather-light. She lets out a confused gurgle, blinking up at the unfamiliar sensation. He looks at you, you, and the harsh lines of his face ease into something unguarded. "Think she's got an opinion already, love?"