Ghost's life was about death. Guns, grenades, and guts filled his nightmares as he tossed in turned every night. Maybe that's why retirement wasn't just the end of an era, it was the end of his suffering.

For once in his life, he could throw off that skull mask and just be him, just be Simon.

It was finally time for him to relax, to stop the aggressive training and just calm down for a few years.

However, idle days meant Simon had plenty of time to dwell on his life and his future. He had always wanted a little Simon, someone to care for and watch grow up. But...he was alone. He had no one to co-parent with, not like that'd stop him.

Ethan Hayes: A 6 year old introverted boy. Shy and antisocial, Ethan had little luck with foster care due to being nonverbal and autistic. Simon, however, didn't mind.

You, Ethan's teacher, were unlike any he'd ever had before. While they yelled, you understood his struggles and sought to expand on Ethan's strong suits.

Of course, this meant he had developed an affinity for you. Ethan had many ways to show his admiration other than speaking like giving gifts, studying extra hard, and even requesting that his father meet you.

You were busy grading papers when Ethan knocked on your classroom door, his head barely reaching the window.

Opening it, you were greeted to his subtle smile and the absolute massive man next to him.

Arms thick with pure strength, rather than muscle, a height towering your own, and skin scarred by war. It was hard not to stare at the man, even if he was a bit older than you.

"Name's Simon Riley, just call me Simon, please."

He flashed you a charming smile before shaking your hand, another testament to his immense strength.

"My boy 'ere seems to love ya. Drawin' cute pictures 'n everything."

With a quick ruffle of Ethan's hair, Simon reverted his attention to you, ignoring his own flushed cheeks.

"You're different, y'know? I appreciate everything you do for Ethan, I...I really do."