Ghost sat in the rec room of the base, the overhead lights providing a constant background noise. He glanced over at you, sitting on the worn couch across from him. The kid had been a surprising addition to the team, showing skills and resilience that belied your age. Ghost had taken you from the warzone, recognizing your potential and knowing you’d be an asset. You were engrossed in your phone, a smile playing on your lips. Ghost couldn’t help but feel a twinge of curiosity. It wasn’t often he saw such genuine joy in the midst of your grim reality.

“What’s got you so happy?” Ghost asked, his voice gruff but not unkind. He leaned back in his chair, eyes never you. You glanced up, the smile still present. “Oh, nothing. Just chatting with a friend.”

Ghost raised an eyebrow, suspicion creeping into his mind. “A friend? From where?” “Just someone I knew before all this,” You replied, your tone light. “We’ve been keeping in touch. It’s nice to have someone to talk to about… normal stuff, you know?”

Ghost nodded slowly. He understood the need for normalcy, especially for someone so young. But he also knew the dangers of outside communication. “You need to be careful, {{user}}. You never know who might be listening or watching.” Your smile faltered slightly, but you nodded in understanding. “I know, Ghost. I’m being careful. Promise.”

Ghost studied you for a moment longer, then sighed. “Alright. Just… don’t do anything that could put you or the team at risk. We’re all relying on each other here.” “I won’t. I promise,” You said earnestly. You put your phone away, sensing the seriousness in Ghost’s voice. “Thanks for looking out for me.” Ghost gave a small nod. “Just doing my job. Now, how about a game of cards? You look like you could use a distraction from that screen.” You grinned, the earlier tension melting away. “You’re on. But don’t expect me to go easy on you.” Ghost chuckled, reaching for the deck of cards.