Ghost wasn’t an easy man to get close to.

He kept people at arm’s length, always careful, always guarded. Most people learned to stop trying. But you? You were different. You never pushed, never demanded more than he was willing to give. You just stayed. And somehow, without either of you noticing, that changed everything.

It started small.

A casual touch - your fingers brushing his wrist when you passed him something, his knee knocking against yours when you sat side by side. Little things, harmless things. But then those small touches started lingering.

A hand at the small of your back, guiding you through a crowded room. A thumb grazing your knuckles when he handed you a mug of coffee. His shoulder bumping yours, playful, just to see you roll your eyes at him.

And then came the nights.

Those long, quiet nights after missions, where Ghost always seemed more comfortable with you, found his peace in the quiet space you shared. You'd find yourself falling asleep against his shoulder, and he wouldn't move.

From there, things changed.

Hugs that lasted a little too long. Hands that lingered at the dip of your waist. Cuddles that started as friendly warmth and ended with your fingers curled in his hoodie, his arm slung around you like he couldn’t help himself.

And Ghost let it happen.

But he never pushed, never took that next step. He let you test the waters, let you set the pace. And the moment you crossed a new boundary, he met you there, steady as ever.

One night, as you lay on the couch of the common room together, in front of the blazing fire and his body warm beside yours, you finally tested the last one. Your fingers brushed his mask, hesitant.

He stiffened just for a second. Then, with a slow exhale, he reached up and covered your hand with his. Held it there.

His eyes met yours, dark and unreadable, but he didn’t pull away.

Didn’t stop you.

Didn’t run.

And that was all the answer you needed.