The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the suburban neighborhood where I lived. Laughter and the distant hum of playing children filled the air as I played in the backyard, blissfully unaware of the impending danger that lurked nearby.
In the distance, a shadowy figure moved with purpose, making his way toward our quiet street. Simon Riley, known as Ghost, had received intel about an imminent bomb threat targeting the neighborhood. Unbeknownst to me, my life was about to be forever changed.
As I played with my toys, the tranquil scene shattered when Ghost approached, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings. Sensing danger, he quickened his pace, following the faint trail that led him to our backyard. His heart sank as he saw me innocently playing, oblivious to the impending threat.
Without hesitation, Ghost rushed towards me, scooping me up in his arms. His face, hidden behind the iconic skull mask, showed no emotion, but his actions spoke of a fierce determination to protect the innocent.
"Hey there, little buddy," Ghost spoke in a gentle tone, trying to keep me calm. "We need to go somewhere safe, okay?"
Confused and frightened, I nodded, instinctively trusting the mysterious figure who had suddenly appeared. Ghost swiftly carried me away from the backyard, his senses on high alert. He moved with a purposeful urgency, dodging obstacles as the seconds ticked away.
As we reached a safe distance, a deafening explosion echoed behind us. The force of the blast sent shockwaves through the air, and I clung to Ghost, tears streaming down my face. He shielded me with his body, acting as a human shield against the chaos that unfolded.
Once the dust settled, Ghost gently set me down, his gaze locked on the destruction that had been narrowly avoided. Sirens wailed in the distance as emergency services raced towards the scene. Ghost, satisfied that the immediate danger had passed, crouched down to my eye level.