Contagious || Ghost x Fem

𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐞

As the tournament concluded, with Ghost emerging as the victor, you couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the diversion it provided. The tournament offered a much-needed reprieve, allowing you to momentarily set aside your worries and immerse yourself in the thrill of competition. Viper's words caught you off guard, and you couldn't help but feel a mix of surprise and frustration. "Well, I thought you should know, yesterday I was offered your spot but I had no idea I was replacing you. I would have never taken the mission if I knew," he said, his tone genuine and apologetic. You took a moment to process his words, appreciating the sincerity in his voice. Despite your anger, you couldn't fault him for accepting an opportunity that came his way.

"Yeah, don't worry about it," you replied, forcing a smile. "It's a chance to prove yourself to your commander." Your attempt at reassurance masked the lingering frustration you felt, but you knew it wasn't Viper's fault. As everyone returned to the building, the weariness of the day's battles weighed heavily on each of you. Limbs aching and muscles sore, the group dispersed to seek out some much-needed relaxation. Left in the common area were you, Ghost, and Soap, the three of you sharing a quiet moment amidst the fading echoes of the day's events. Ghost reclined on the couch, his expression thoughtful as he rubbed at the bruises marring his skin. Soap leaned against the wall, his gaze distant as he contemplated the day's events. And you, finding solace in the quietude of the moment, allowed yourself to relax, if only momentarily, before the weight of your responsibilities pressed in once more.

Soap's stomach growling disrupted the peaceful silence that had settled over the room. "I'm starving," he declared, prompting a chuckle from you. "What do you want?" you inquired, already anticipating his answer. After a moment of contemplation, Soap responded with a thoughtful expression, "I think I want roast beef stew." You nodded in agreement, already mentally planning the ingredients and steps needed to prepare the hearty meal. "I'll get to it," you assured him, rising from your seat with a determined stride.

With a sense of purpose, you headed towards the kitchen, eager to whip up a comforting and nourishing dish to satiate Soap's hunger. The clatter of pots and pans soon filled the air as you set to work, the familiar routine of cooking providing a welcome distraction from the day's events. As the savory aroma of simmering stew wafted through the air, you couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that you were able to provide a warm and comforting meal for your companions.

Feeling a familiar warmth envelop you, you glanced down to find Ghost's arms wrapped securely around your waist, his skeleton gloves a comforting presence against your skin. A soft smile tugged at your lips as you leaned into his embrace, appreciating the silent support he offered. Feeling Ghost's presence behind you, you sensed him leaning in closer, his chin coming to rest gently on your shoulder. His warm breath brushed against your neck, sending a shiver down your spine as you continued to stir the stew. 

As the stew continued to simmer, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, Soap's stomach growled once more, breaking the peaceful silence. You chuckled at the sound, prompting Soap to sheepishly rub the back of his neck. Ghost lifted his head from your shoulder, a playful grin spreading under his mask. "Looks like someone's eager to dig in," he remarked, casting a teasing glance at Soap. Soap laughed in response, nodding eagerly. "Can't wait to taste that stew, Serpent. You're like a wizard in the kitchen," he praised, his eyes lighting up with anticipation. You smiled at the compliment, feeling a sense of satisfaction at the prospect of sharing a meal with your teammates. Cooking had always been a source of comfort for you, a way to nurture and care for those you held dear.

Ghost now leaned casually against the counter, his arms crossed over his chest as he observed your work. "Almost done?" he asked, a small smile playing on his lips. You nodded, stirring the stew one last time before turning off the stove. The savory aroma filled the air, making your stomach growl in anticipation. "Not too shabby, if I do say so myself," Ghost remarked, a hint of admiration in his voice. You chuckled, wiping your hands on a nearby dish towel. You glanced over at Ghost, who raised an eyebrow with a smirk. "Looks like it's time to feed the hungry masses," he said, pushing himself off the counter. "Soap, would you mind getting everyone?" you asked, gesturing towards the stairs. "Not at all," Soap replied with a grin before disappearing upstairs.

Left alone in the kitchen with Ghost, you shared a brief smile before turning back to the stew, ready to serve up a delicious meal for your teammates. As Soap headed upstairs to fetch the rest of the team, you focused on putting the finishing touches on the stew. Ghost leaned against the counter, his gaze lingering on you as you moved about the kitchen. With a small smile, you bent over to retrieve the bowls from the lower cupboard, your movements fluid and graceful. Unbeknownst to you, Ghost found himself positioned directly behind you, his proximity drawing him closer.

He watched you intently, admiring the way you moved with purpose and confidence. His heart skipped a beat as he caught a whiff of your familiar scent, a comforting reminder of your presence beside him. Lost in the moment, Ghost couldn't help but feel a surge of affection for you. He reached out instinctively, his hand hovering in the air as if drawn to your warmth. But just as quickly as the moment arose, Soap's voice echoed down from the stairs, breaking the spell. Ghost quickly straightened up, his composure returning as he glanced away, trying to conceal the rush of emotions that had stirred within him. You turned around, a stack of bowls in your hands, unaware of the brief interlude that had transpired behind you. With a smile, you motioned for Ghost to help you set the table, the two of you falling back into your easy rhythm as you prepared to share the meal with your teammates.

"You did a great job with the stew," Ghost complimented, his voice genuine. You smiled back, appreciating the praise. "Thanks, but I couldn't have done it without your help," you replied, acknowledging his silent support throughout the cooking process. Ghost chuckled softly. "I mainly just provided moral support," he teased, a playful glint in his eyes. "Well, it worked," you retorted, nudging him playfully with your elbow.

The team gathered around the table, their tired bodies sinking into the chairs with relief. Steam rose from the bowls of stew in front of them, and the aroma filled the room, tempting their appetites. As everyone dug into the delicious meal, conversation flowed easily. Ghost shared a few anecdotes from past missions, eliciting laughter from the group. Soap recounted a particularly amusing mishap during training, earning him some good-natured teasing from Keegan. You listened and contributed to the banter, enjoying the camaraderie of your team. Despite the challenges you faced, moments like these reminded you of the bond you shared. Between bites of stew and sips of water, the atmosphere in the room felt relaxed and content. It was a welcome respite from the intensity of their recent endeavors.

1253 words