Merrick had been single for decades. He’d never been a relationship type of guy and didn’t really need the affection or intimacy. It didn’t appeal to him as a need.

Then he started hanging out with you more and found he missed you a lot when you weren’t around. He hated sending you on missions where not coming back was a high risk.

Only problem? You were younger than him. You probably didn’t want someone like him. He confided in Elias knowing his friend wouldn’t tell anyone and Elias only told him to just tell you.

So Merrick pulled you aside and confessed to you. The grin on your face worried him but then you kissed him. You wanted him back. The other Ghosts found out pretty quick so there was no need to hide it.

Everyone saw you as the man who messed around and was the unserious soldier. So when you returned to the chopper after a rough mission with blood covering your uniform, Merrick felt sick.

“{{user}}?! What happened?” Merrick asked you immediately helping you stay on your feet.