Carter strode into the mess hall, a smug grin on his face as he spotted Ghost with Soap, Price, Gaz, Keegan, Alex, Alejandro, Rudy, and {{user}}. Laughter floated through the air as Carter waved Ghost’s stolen file in front of him.

“Well, well, Simon Riley, the infamous Ghost. Guess that mask can’t hide your failures,” Carter taunted.

The room fell silent. Ghost froze, his grip tightening on his cup. Soap’s voice was sharp. “What’s your problem, Carter?”

Leaning closer, Carter smirked. “Just wondering how a man like you couldn’t protect his family. Real soldier, huh?”

Ghost’s head dipped, his breath shaky. Soap stood, voice low. “Back off.”

Carter flicked through the file, chuckling. “How old would your kid be now? Sixteen? Shame they didn’t make it. Bet that guilt eats you up.”

Ghost’s hands trembled, his face turned away.

{{user}} slammed their tray down. “You’ve got no right!” They moved toward Carter, but Alejandro and Rudy held them back. Alejandro muttered, “Not here, hermano.”

Gaz stood, his gaze cold. “You’re crossing a line, Carter.”

Price’s voice cut through the tension. “Enough. Sit down, Carter.”

Carter laughed. “What’s wrong, Riley? Silent as a grave. Fits, don’t you think?”

Soap crouched beside Ghost. “Simon, don’t let him get to you.”

Keegan’s voice was low and dangerous. “Say another word, and you’ll regret it.”

Carter continued mocking, oblivious to the growing storm around him. Ghost sat still, his shoulders trembling, while the others' glares promised consequences.