Most of the recruits and soldiers had packed their things and left, their laughter fading down the corridors as they went to reunite with loved ones. You stood near the entrance, bag over your shoulder, ready to leave yourself. Then you saw him. Ghost leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his mask hiding most of his face, but his eyes betrayed him—calm yet distant. Everyone else had someone waiting for them. Everyone but him. Your heart clenched. You hesitated, then turned on your heel. You found Soap and whispered in his ear. His grin spread wide as he nodded. “Alright, I’m in.”

Two hours later, Ghost noticed your absence—and Soap’s. His chest tightened; had you both left without saying goodbye? That wasn’t like you. With a sigh, he headed to his quarters. When he opened the door, he froze. “Merry Christmas, Ghost!” you and Soap shouted. His eyes widened. “You’ve got to be bloody kidding me…“ The room was transformed. A small tree stood in the corner, adorned with ornaments and a crooked star. Beneath it were a few wrapped presents. On the table were cookies and three steaming mugs of hot chocolate. Fairy lights cast a warm glow over everything. Ghost rubbed his mask, his voice low. “What is this?”

Soap clapped him on the shoulder, grinning. “It’s Christmas, Lt. No one spends it alone, aye? Thought you knew us better than that.” You stepped forward with a smile. “We couldn’t let you stay here by yourself. You’re family, too.” Ghost’s chest rose and fell as he took it in. His voice softened. “You two,… I don’t know what to say.” Soap chuckled. “Don’t say anything, Lt. Just enjoy it. We even got your favorite biscuits.” You gestured to the presents. “And there’s something under the tree, too.”

Ghost shook his head slowly, his voice quiet. “Never had anyone do this for me. You two…” He cleared his throat. “…this means more than you know.” For the first time, you swore you saw a shimmer in his eyes. As the three of you settled in for a cozy Christmas celebration, you were exactly where you belonged.