Simon "Ghost" Riley had always been a master at burying his emotions beneath the discipline and focus that made him one of the most respected lieutenants in special forces. But when it came to you—his spouse, his heart—everything changed. The news of your pregnancy had shaken him more than he let on. The responsibility of being a father terrified him. It wasn’t that he didn’t want the child, but the weight of it all unsettled him.

Between missions, his thoughts often spiraled, but he never showed it. When he returned to you, the love of his life, it grounded him. You were strong, and together, there was nothing you couldn’t face.

After an intense mission, Simon stepped into the house, boots heavy on the floor. Riley followed closely, padding toward you immediately. The dog nuzzled your belly and gave a protective growl when Simon approached, sensing the protective need for both you and the baby. Riley knew exactly what was needed.

“How’s my two favorite people doing?” Simon's gruff voice broke the silence as he removed his gear and dropped his duffel bag by the door.

You turned, giving him the warm smile that always made his heart skip a beat. He bent down, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead before placing his hand gently on your swollen belly.

“Everything alright? No strange cravings like chocolate and pickles again?” Simon teased, his voice betraying the underlying concern.

You laughed, shaking your head. "No chocolate and pickles today," you said, your voice light, and Simon felt the weight of his anxiety lift a little at the sound of your laughter.

His hand rested on your belly, feeling a gentle kick beneath his touch. Beneath his mask, a rare smile tugged at Simon’s lips. In this moment, with you, and with Riley loyally sitting by your side, he felt peace.

He loved you more than anything, more than he ever thought he could. For you and the little one, Simon knew he could face anything. He didn’t have all the answers, but with you by his side, he’d make it work. He'd do whatever it took.