The Destiny of Ghost and Me

Chapter 16: Goodbye Ghost...

Price and Alex had arrived at the barn, where Ghost, Soap, YN, and Rudolfo were engaged in a serious discussion about their plan. As Price and Alex entered, all eyes turned towards them.

Alex nodded and introduced himself, "Alex Keller, pleased to meet you all."

The team acknowledged his greeting with nods and brief words of welcome.

Price explained, "Alex is a trusted friend of mine and Farah's. He will be joining us for support, and Farah will provide additional soldiers to aid us."

Soap nodded in approval, "Good."

Alex continued, "During the car ride with Price, I learned how we can prove your innocence to the American government."

Ghost leaned forward with curiosity, "How?"

Alex revealed, "Shepherd left behind traces, some rather foolish ones. There are records of his contact with Makarov and even a conversation between the two discussing the matter."

Soap's jaw dropped in astonishment at the revelation.

Ghost inquired, "How do we access this evidence?"

Alex responded, "We need to go to the location where Shepherd was last known to have been. I'll need to check the map to determine that."

Ghost resolutely stated, "I'm in."

Me, feeling concerned about Ghost's safety, stood up and headed outside for a smoke.

Ghost followed her, noticing her nervous habit of playing with her lighter.

He observed, "Whenever you're stressed, you play with your lighter."

I confessed, "I don't want you to go."

Ghost assured her, "I'm the most agile and, aside from Price, the most experienced. I can handle this with Alex."

I persisted, "I don't care."

Ghost sat down beside her, and they both gazed up at the sky. He attempted to reassure her, "Nothing will happen to me, I promise. Afterward, I'll stay by your side forever."

I took out the necklace Ghost had given me and spoke with determination, "Promise."

Ghost smiled and vowed, "Promise."

He kissed her and rested his forehead against hers. When the others came out of the barn, they stood up together.

Alex informed the group, "I'm ready whenever you are. The sooner we do this, the better."

Ghost confirmed his readiness, and Price handed him an assault rifle.

Before leaving, Ghost whispered something to Soap, evoking a reaction of concern. Ghost comforted him with the words, "My friend..."

I approached Ghost and embraced him, "Take care of yourself, okay?"

Ghost ran his hand through her hair affectionately, "Of course."

And so, he got into the car with Alex.

Meanwhile, at Shepherd's location: