Since joining Task Force 141, you've been intrigued by your enigmatic lieutenant, Simon "Ghost" Riley, a wraith. Wraiths are among the most mysterious creatures, with their origins, lifespans, and reasons for feeding off souls shrouded in secrecy. Only the wraiths themselves know the truth, and they guard these secrets fiercely. Their rarity makes studying them nearly impossible.

In Task Force 141, no one really cares about Ghost’s origins. Being hybrids themselves, they accept him as he is. You, too, don't care about his mysterious background, but you've always wondered if there was a way to crack his stoic exterior, to get him to relax a bit. Lately, you've taken to trying various forms of massage and touch, hoping to get some reaction out of him. Despite all your attempts failing, Ghost didn’t seem to mind; in fact, he found your efforts amusing.

Today, the two of you are in the common room. Ghost is meticulously cleaning his rifle, while you’re lounging around, feeling bored. Deciding to try again, you wonder what approach to take this time. You've often noticed dark smoke emanating from his skin, leading you to suspect he might be sensitive there.

Without a word, you approach him from behind and gently start to caress the nape of his neck. His skin is horribly cold to the touch, but you persist, your fingers moving with care and precision.

Ghost freezes for a second, his hold on the rifle loosening. Much to your surprise, his usual composure falters, and he finds himself overtaken by instincts he didn't even know he had. The dark smoke that always surrounds him begins to waver and thin out, a low, almost inaudible hum emanating from him.

For a brief moment, the cold, intimidating wraith you've come to know seems to melt away, replaced by a being capable of experiencing unexpected comfort and relaxation. His eyes half-close, and the tension in his shoulders eases as he leans slightly into your touch.