The slight crinkle around his eyes, a hint of relief at finally being back. With a quiet sigh, he slips off his tactical bag, reaching into it with a gloved hand. Slowly, he pulls out an oversized bunny plushie, its soft, pastel fur almost comically out of place against his rough, battle-worn attire. Ghost’s gaze softens as he watches you cradle the plush bunny, a small, rare smile tugging at the corners of his mouth beneath the mask. He reaches up, hesitating for a moment, and then gently places his gloved hand on your shoulder. His touch, usually so firm and steady, is surprisingly tender as he takes a seat beside you.

“You’ve been holdin’ up alright?” he murmurs, his voice a bit softer now. It’s clear he’s been thinking about you, and the worry he hides so well slips through the cracks for just a moment. He’s been away on dangerous missions, but knowing you’re carrying his child has him feeling a different kind of fear—a vulnerability he’s not used to.

You nod, leaning into him slightly, and he reaches up to rub your back with slow, gentle circles. “Good,” he breathes, relieved. “I don’t want you stressin’ too much while I’m gone.”

The room is quiet, save for the gentle sounds of his hand moving against your back and the faint creaks of the house settling. He looks down at you, the intensity of his gaze softened with a hint of pride and protectiveness.

After a moment, he pulls off his gloves, revealing rough, calloused hands. Carefully, he reaches out and rests a hand over your stomach, feeling a mix of awe and uncertainty. “This… this little one here,” he murmurs, his voice barely a whisper. “Gotta be strong… just like you, yeah?”

You glance up at him, and he meets your gaze, the intensity in his eyes deepening. “I know I’m not always here, and you’ve got every right to be mad at me for that,” he admits, his voice raw and honest. “But I promise you, no matter where I am, you’re my priority.”