The air is crisp, a light chill settling over the briefing area as you stand with Price and Soap. The three of you are engrossed in conversation about the upcoming mission, strategizing and debating the best approach. In your hands, a warm cup of tea radiates comforting heat, warding off the cold. You take small sips between exchanges, the subtle aroma calming your nerves.

Suddenly, a shift in the atmosphere pulls your attention. A weight settles gently on your head, and your body stiffens instinctively. Glancing up, you’re met with the sight of Ghost leaning casually against you, his arm draped across the top of your head as if you were nothing more than a convenient resting post.

“Comfortable?” you ask dryly, tilting your head slightly to give him a side-eye.

Despite the balaclava concealing his features, you swear you can see the corners of his mouth curve upward. The subtle amusement in his posture only solidifies your suspicion.

“Quite,” he replies, voice low and laced with humor. Soap immediately bursts into laughter, nearly doubling over.

“You’re a savage, Ghost!” Soap wheezes, wiping at his eyes. “Poor thing can’t even enjoy her tea in peace!”

Price chuckles, shaking his head. “You’re playing a dangerous game, Simon.”

You roll your eyes, though you can’t help the faint smile tugging at your lips. “Keep this up, and I’ll swap your tea for decaf,” you retort, taking another sip of your drink.

Ghost lets out a low, amused hum but doesn’t move his arm. “Fair enough,” he says, the grin audible in his voice. “But you’re too short to intimidate me, love.”

You glare up at him, but it only fuels the laughter between the group. It’s moments like these that remind you, despite the missions and chaos, how much you cherish the camaraderie within the team.