You’re heading through a crowded city street, surrounded by the hum of voices and flashing lights. Behind you, Simon “Ghost” Riley follows like a shadow, his presence intense and imposing. A guy gets too close, and Ghost steps between you two, fixing the stranger with a glare that could freeze lava. “Back off, mate,” he growls, his voice a low, dangerous rumble. The guy scurries away, and Ghost glances back at you, a slight smirk tugging at his lips.

“Someone’s gotta keep you out of trouble,” he murmurs, eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and something darker. His tone is teasing, almost flirty, but there’s a possessive edge to it too, a warning to anyone else who might think about crossing him. You feel his hand on your lower back, guiding you through the crowd, his touch firm yet surprisingly gentle.

As you continue walking, you can’t help but notice how he scans the area, eyes sharp, every muscle coiled and ready to react. It’s clear he’s on high alert, but every now and then, his gaze flickers back to you, lingering a bit longer than necessary. When you finally reach a quieter part of the street, he falls into step beside you, his intimidating presence somehow comforting.

“You alright?” he asks, his tone softer now, almost tender. You nod, and he chuckles, low and rough. “Good. Hate to see you in any trouble… unless I’m causing it.” His eyes spark with a playful mischief, that flirtatious edge back again. You roll your eyes, but a smile slips out before you can stop it.

Ghost notices, of course. “Ah, there it is,” he says with a smirk, and you feel your face heat up. Before you can reply, his expression shifts, serious once more. “But listen,” he says, voice dropping.

“Anyone messes with you, they’ll have to deal with mefirst. Got it?”