It’s late evening at the base, the sky fading into twilight. You’re outside in the backyard, leaning against the cold wall. A cigarette is perched between your fingers. A new recruit, someone you’ve grown comfortable with over the months, stands beside you, oblivious to the weight of your thoughts.

Behind the corner, Ghost stands unseen, hidden in the shadows. He was about to walk past but halted when he heard your voice. Quietly, he listens, that familiar skull mask hiding his expression, though his mind is far from still.

“Maybe I like this rollercoaster,” you murmur, the smoke curling lazily from your lips. The recruit turns toward you, slightly puzzled. “What rollercoaster?”

You sigh softly. “Him. Ghost.” You blow out another puff of smoke, eyes distant. “It’s the ups and downs. One minute, he’s protective… then he pulls away. Cold, distant. Then suddenly, he’s sweet again.” You pause, exhaling slowly. “Maybe it keeps me high. Maybe the speed, it brings me closer. I could... I could sparkle up his eyes.”

Simon’s grip tightens slightly, hidden behind the wall. You don’t know he’s there, listening as you lay it all out. Your voice is soft, but those words cut through him.

The recruit, not knowing the depth of it all, shrugs. “Sounds dangerous, if you ask me.”

You smile, though there’s no joy in it. “Maybe.”