It had been an accident. A complete accident.

Roach hadn’t meant to say it—hell, he had gone years without mentioning it. But somehow, during one of their usual post-mission debriefs, the words had just... slipped out.

And now he was suffering the consequences.

“You’ve got a partner and you never told us?” Soap had practically shouted, eyes wide with betrayal.

“Didn’t think it mattered,” Roach had mumbled, instantly realizing his mistake.

That had been the wrong answer. Because now, here they were—Soap, Gaz, Ghost, and Price—standing in front of a bright pink bakery that looked like a giant cupcake.

Roach resisted the urge to bury his face in his hands. “I regret everything.”

Soap let out a low whistle. “Mate, this is adorable.”

Gaz snickered. “This is what I expected from literally anyone but you.”

Ghost, silent as always, just stared at the building, probably trying to process the sheer amount of sugar-themed chaos in front of them. There were giant candy-cane pillars, icing-like trim, and a big swirled rooftop that genuinely looked like frosting.

Price, arms crossed, smirked slightly. “Well, they’ve got taste, I’ll give ‘em that.”

Before Roach could warn them, the doors burst open.

And then... they appeared.

A whirlwind of energy, bouncing on their feet, eyes practically sparkling with excitement. Their outfit was just as bright and sugary as the bakery itself, and Roach barely had time to prepare before they launched themselves forward at him to give him a big hug.

Soap let out a startled laugh as he was immediately bombarded with enthusiasm. Gaz took a half-step back, grinning in shock. Even Ghost—Ghost—looked slightly taken aback.

Price, ever the composed one, just nodded approvingly. “Quite the welcome.”

Roach sighed, already exhausted. This was going to be a long day.