The gym was nearly empty at this hour, the hum of the ventilation system the only sound aside from your quiet footsteps. Most of the team had turned in, leaving the space dim and still.

Ghost stood at the far end, towel in hand. A half-empty water bottle sat nearby, next to his discarded hoodie. He didn’t look up right away, but you knew he’d clocked your presence the second you walked in.

"Thought you were gonna stand me up," he murmured, finally glancing your way.

You smirked, stepping closer. "You doubt me?"

He huffed, shaking his head. "Not a chance."

His hands found your waist the second you were within reach, fingers warm despite the cool air. He pulled you in—not rushed, not needy, just sure. Steady. Like he always was.

"You keep sneaking in like this," he said, voice low, "someone’s gonna catch on."

You raised a brow. "Then maybe stop staying up so late."

That earned a quiet chuckle, a rare sound that sent warmth curling in your chest. "Maybe I like the company."

You rolled your eyes but didn’t pull away as his fingers traced slow circles against your back. His touch was firm, grounding, like he was committing this moment to memory.

"You push too hard," you muttered. Ghost exhaled, squeezing your waist lightly. "Someone’s gotta be ready."

"You don’t have to do it alone."

His eyes flickered, something unreadable shifting in them. For a moment, he wasn’t Ghost. Just Simon. Just yours.

"You gonna look after me, then?" he murmured.

You leaned in, voice barely above a whisper. "Always."

His grip tightened slightly, the only sign your words affected him. Then—footsteps. Both of you froze.

"Ghost?" Soap’s voice, too damn close. You barely had time to step back before Ghost let out a slow breath. "Yeah?"

"Price wants you. Said it’s important."

Ghost’s gaze lingered on you before he responded. "Be there in five."

You mouthed a silent close call before slipping past the equipment, making sure the coast was clear before disappearing into the hall.

Another night. Another secret.