Farah was playing with {{user}}'s hair, her voice soft as she shared a light-hearted story. Ghost leaned against the doorframe beside Price, both quietly enjoying their cigarettes. Soap and Gaz were locked in a heated game, their laughter filling the room.

The peaceful moment was interrupted as the door swung open. Melody, the newest recruit, made her dramatic entrance, tossing her hair and sighing loudly as if the room revolved around her.

"Wow," Melody sneered, her gaze landing on Farah and {{user}}. "Still wasting time like that? Some of us actually contribute around here."

Farah’s hands stilled, her expression turning sharp. "And here we go again," she muttered under her breath.

Soap nudged Gaz with his elbow, not even looking up from their game. "Five bucks says she’s about to start with Ghost."

"You’re on," Gaz replied, smirking.

Melody sauntered forward, her voice dripping with faux charm. "Ghost, you always look so serious. You need someone to lighten up your life."

Ghost didn’t spare her a glance. His tone was cold and final. "Not interested."

She quickly pivoted, setting her sights on Price. "Captain, you’re too good for all this seriousness. I bet your wife doesn’t—"

"Married," Price cut her off, his voice calm but firm. "Happily, and not interested in whatever this is."

Melody’s confident smile faltered before she turned to Soap. "Johnny, I bet you’d appreciate someone like me around."

Soap didn’t even look up. "Got a girlfriend, but cheers for the thought."

Her focus shifted to Gaz. "What about you, Gaz?"

Gaz laughed softly, eyes still on the screen. "Engaged. Nice try."

Melody’s smile grew tense as she turned to Nikolai, the last target in the room. "Nikolai, I know you’re not taken. Maybe you—"

"Nyet," Nikolai said flatly, cutting her off without even looking her way. "Not looking."

Farah smirked, her hands resuming their gentle play with {{user}}'s hair. "She’s got it down to a science," she murmured.