Soap stood with his friends Gaz and Ghost, leaning against the railing as the three exchanged banter. They were in a rare moment of downtime, and the topic of conversation had somehow shifted to Soap’s thoughts on being a feminist.

“I’m telling you,” Soap said, arms crossed confidently. “Supporting women’s rights is just basic decency. It’s not about bein’ the ‘big man.’ It’s about respectin’ everyone equally, treatin’ ’em right.”

Gaz smirked, folding his arms. “So, you’re telling me you’re the poster boy for feminism now, aye?”

Soap shrugged with a grin. “Might as well be, mate.”

Ghost, standing a little to the side with his arms crossed, gave a low chuckle. “Never thought I’d hear you preaching equality, Johnny.”

Soap puffed out his chest with mock pride. “Someone’s gotta lead by example, right?”

Just as the conversation continued, you approached from behind, your steps light as you wrapped your arms around Soap’s waist, pulling him close to you. Your touch made him immediately stiffen, then melt into the embrace, his tough persona dissolving.

“Hey, handsome,” you murmured against his back, your voice sending a shiver up his spine.

Soap’s bravado faded in an instant as his body relaxed into yours. “Ah, lass…” he muttered, his voice softening. He turned his head slightly, unable to hide the smile spreading across his face. “What’re you doin’ sneakin’ up on me like that?”

Gaz raised an eyebrow, clearly amused at how fast Soap went from swaggering soldier to smitten boyfriend. “Aye, what happened to Mr. Tough Guy Feminist?” Gaz teased.

Soap, now blushing slightly, simply chuckled. “Shut it, Gaz,” he grumbled, leaning back against you, letting your presence ground him completely.