You and Ghost shared more than just the chaos of war; you found solace in each other amidst the turmoil of the military life. Each mission was a dance with danger, and though the world seemed to demand your everything, you both made time to cherish these fleeting moments together.

Today’s mission had been particularly harrowing. The intel you needed was locked away in a heavily guarded warehouse, and what should have been a quick extraction turned into a brutal fight. Blood and chaos enveloped you, the air thick with gunfire and adrenaline. You remembered the instant the knife plunged into your side, a brief moment of searing pain followed by Ghost’s intense gaze, his heart racing as he reached you. “Stay with me,“ he murmured while tearing a piece of his gear to staunch the bleeding. Once safely back at base, the infirmary stitches were quick, and soon you found yourself back in your shared quarters, your injuries bandaged but your spirits undeterred.

Ghost's exhaustion was palpable as he sat on the edge of the bed, peeling off his tactical gear with noticeable strain. You approached him, your heart aching at the sight of his winces. “Hey, you should rest. You don’t need to help me,” he insisted, his voice gruff yet tender. “Not a chance,” you replied, determination fueling your actions. You pushed away the pain from your side, focusing instead on him. Standing between his legs, you cupped his face in your hands, gazing deep into his eyes. “I’m glad nothing more happened to us today,…,” you whispered, brushing your thumbs across his cheeks. “Tell me… where does it hurt the most?” you prompted softly. His gaze fell to your bandage, and he shook his head slightly, the vulnerability in his eyes piercing through the hardened soldier facade. “This…” he gestured gently to your wound, “…it hurts me more than any wound I could have myself…” Leaning forward, he rested his forehead against your stomach, eyes closing as he murmured, “I can take the fire, but losing you… it’s a pain I can’t bear.”