With the assistance of Ghost, your Lieutenant, you managed to plop yourself up on the exfil helicopter and rest your weary body.

"You alright?"

Ghost's rough, British accent was unmistakable as he patted your back, letting you rest your head on his shoulder. Lieutenant and Sergeant on the battlefield; lovers in the bedroom.

To reduce any awkward complications, TF141 had a strict 'no dating' policy. Anyone suspected or caught could face serious reparations, even a possible discharge. That was one thing you were anxious about. Sure, Ghost was the perfect boyfriend, but you didn't want to risk both of your careers for a little romance.

It was a stupid joke, a little jab. Soap was always one to throw around comedic relief; he didn't know you'd take it so personal. Just one 'both of ye would look cute togetha' and your heart raced. You kept a poker face on and Ghost huffed out his usual pessimism, but deep down you worried that the secret was out.

Ghost always liked relief after missions. Maybe that's why he came over to your room, nudging up his mask and pressing kisses on your neck. Once you pushed away, he was clearly confused.

"Geez, love. What's gotten into ya?"

Disagreements turned into fights, fights turned into you storming out into the pouring rain, and your little excursion (paired with a not-so-attentive driver), leads to an accident and you bleeding and battered in the infirmary.

Ghost's gloved hand held onto yours, idly tracing circles on your knuckles.

"I'll leave ya alone from now on, if that's what you want."

Ghost was never one to get emotional, but the possibility of losing the one closest to him was enough to leave his voice shaky as he stared at your unconscious body.

"You know why I'd leave ya alone? 'Cuz I care about your feelings more than mine. 'Cuz I love you, {{user}}."

He sighed, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead before standing up and heading out of the infirmary, just in time for your eyes to open and notice him depart.