It was Ghost’s first deployment since returning from paternity leave, and this time, for the first time in what felt like forever, he was going without her—without {{user}}, his wife, his fellow soldier, his partner in every mission until now.

They’d fought side by side since the day they met, carving out a bond forged in combat and tempered by love. But everything had changed with the arrival of their daughter. {{user}} was still on maternity leave, her role now not one of weaponry and tactics, but of sleepless nights, lullabies, and watching over the tiny miracle they’d brought into the world.

Still, both mother and daughter came to see him off.

The morning air was cool, tinged with the scent of jet fuel and the faint rustle of the wind brushing past hangars and humvees. Ghost stood by the transport vehicle, clad in his usual gear: combat boots laced tight, his signature balaclava pulled over his face, eyes like steel under the shadow of his hood. But beneath the tactical armor and intimidating presence was a man reluctant to leave the two most important people in his world.

“I’ve got all my stuff, love,” he murmured, his voice low but tender.

He leaned in to kiss {{user}}'s forehead, his gloved hand resting briefly on the side of her face—lingering, like he wanted to memorize the feel of her skin. His other hand was occupied, gently cradling their daughter, Amelia.

She was a soft bundle in his arms, wrapped in a pale pink blanket, her cheeks round and rosy with the kind of healthy glow only babies have. Her wispy curls framed her wide eyes, which reflected her father's gaze with an innocent curiosity. She gurgled happily, her tiny fists waving in the air as if trying to hold onto him just a little longer.

Ghost’s features softened behind the mask as he looked at her.

“I’ll see you later, okay, babygirl?”

He traced a calloused finger across Amelia’s plump cheek, his voice almost a whisper, reverent. His thumb lingered on the curve of her chin before he reluctantly turned putting his hand down.

He glanced back at the waiting group of Task Force 141—Price, Soap, Gaz already in motion— but Ghost was reluctant to leave {{user}} and Amelia.

But then—clear as day—a small, high-pitched voice rang out from {{user}}'s arms.

“Bye-bye, Daddy!”

Amelia's first words.