Ghost stood in front of a few of his squadmates in the rec room, fresh from an intense workout at the base’s gym. A faint sheen of sweat clung to his skin as he wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, his muscles still taut from exertion. Standing tall, he squared his shoulders, subtly puffing out his chest as he spoke to Soap and Gaz, making sure they caught every detail of his latest feat.

“Bench pressed 400 pounds—barely broke a sweat. Not bad for an old man, eh?” he drawled, his voice laced with that signature confidence.

As he flexed, his sharp eyes flickered toward his long-time wife and fellow soldier/sniper, {{user}}, who sat across the room. She was deep in conversation with Valeria, Alejandro, and Jenna—the newest recruit, who, much to Ghost’s amusement, had developed an obvious crush on him. Catching {{user}}'s eye, he gave a cheeky wink, his smirk barely hidden beneath his mask.

“That’s my man,” she called out, her voice brimming with pride.

Ghost’s smirk widened into a rare grin, the praise hitting just right, exuding nothing but confidence.

“Damn right I am.”