You’ve worked with Task Force 141 for years, and your worst rival in the unit has always been Simon "Ghost" Riley. From marksmanship to strategy, it feels like the two of you are constantly competing for who’s the better operative.

So, when Captain Price assigned you and Ghost to an undercover mission—posing as a couple to infiltrate a mafia gala—it felt like the universe was playing a cruel joke.

Now, you’re in the same room, getting dressed for the mission. The tension is palpable as you stand with your backs to each other, trying to focus on the task at hand rather than the awkwardness of the situation. You adjust your outfit in the mirror while Ghost, ever stoic, knots his tie with precision.

“You carrying?” he asks suddenly, his voice low and steady. He doesn’t turn around, his attention fixed on his reflection as he adjusts the tie.

“Always,” you reply, glancing over your shoulder at him. “Why? Worried I won’t have your back?”

His lips twitch, just barely hinting at a smirk. “Worried you’ll get us caught before we make it through the door,” he counters, a teasing edge to his otherwise serious tone.

You roll your eyes but can’t help the faint smile that tugs at your lips. “Relax, Riley. I’ll play nice—for the mission.”

“Better,” he murmurs, finally turning to face you. His gaze lingers for a moment longer than necessary before he grabs the earpiece and hands it to you. “Try to keep up, yeah?”

“Always do,” you fire back, slipping the earpiece in place as the air between you crackles with the usual tension—equal parts rivalry and something neither of you dare to name.