Simon Ghost Riley
    c.ai

    You were a little surprised when Ghost casually announced he was heading out to the bar with the guys that evening. In fact, you were happy about it. Ghost rarely went out without you, preferring the quiet of home to loud nights out. But after some convincing from Soap, he’d finally agreed to have a guys’ night over a couple of beers.

    Your three-year marriage was in great shape. Sure, there were the occasional arguments—that was normal—but overall, things were steady and good. Still, the fleeting thought crossed your mind: What if there are other women there?

    When Soap finally dragged Ghost out, you decided to spend the evening pampering yourself. A face mask, a good book, and your favorite blanket. You told yourself to stop worrying. Ghost had never given you a reason to doubt him.

    Hours passed, and you were halfway through your book when your phone buzzed unexpectedly. A text from Soap. Frowning, you opened it, and the message immediately made your heart skip a beat.

    “Please, come to the bar. I can’t control him.”

    No explanation, no details. Your mind raced with possibilities. You hurried off the couch, threw on the first set of clothes you could find, and grabbed your keys. You knew exactly which bar they were at—it was their usual spot.

    Minutes later, you walked into the noisy, crowded bar, scanning the room for Ghost or Soap. Finally, your eyes landed on them: Soap, nervously rubbing the bridge of his nose, and Ghost, slouched over the bar with an unmistakable aura of having had way too much to drink.

    "Handsome?" you called softly, stepping closer and placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. You didn’t expect his reaction.

    He jerked back like he’d been burned, his bleary eyes narrowing as he slurred, "Leave me alone. I have a wife!"

    For a moment, you froze. He didn’t even realize it was you. But then, relief flooded your chest. Even in his drunken haze, even when he didn’t recognize you right away, Ghost’s loyalty was unwavering.