G.H.O.S.T.S

The Calm Before

The morning sun filtered through the curtains of Lucas's study, casting a warm glow over the room. Ryder arrived promptly, his determination to start anew evident in his brisk knock on the door. Lucas welcomed him in, leading him to the workspace where their new mission would commence.

"Alright, let's get started," Lucas said, powering up his computer. "We'll find something that suits your skills."

Ryder took a seat beside him, watching as Lucas navigated to a job search website. They filled out the profile together, Ryder providing details of his military and technical expertise while Lucas helped translate that into civilian job market language.

"How about this one?" Lucas pointed to a listing for a security consultant position. "It requires someone with a strategic mind and a knack for problem-solving. Sounds like you."

Ryder leaned in, reading the job description. "It does," he agreed, a spark of hope igniting within him. "But will they question my past?"

"We'll craft a narrative that explains any gaps without revealing too much," Lucas assured him. "You've been consulting privately. That's not uncommon in your field."

They spent the morning applying to various positions, each application a step towards Ryder's redemption. Lucas's expertise in crafting believable backstories was invaluable, and Ryder found himself grateful for the guidance.

As they worked, the tension that had been coiled tight within Ryder began to ease. The act of looking forward, of planning for a future, was therapeutic. It was a stark contrast to the years spent looking over his shoulder, anticipating threats at every turn.

By the time they took a break for lunch, Ryder had applied to several promising positions. The sense of accomplishment was palpable, and even the simple meal they shared seemed to taste of victory.

"Thanks, Lucas," Ryder said as they cleared away the dishes. "I couldn't have done this without you."

Lucas clapped him on the back. "We're in this together," he replied. "Whatever comes next, we'll face it head-on."

Lucas opened the door to find Sophia on his doorstep, her face paler than usual, a noticeable bruise just beneath her eye. His heart skipped a beat, concern flooding him. "Sophia, what happened?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.

She forced a smile, one that didn't quite reach her eyes. "It's nothing, really. I just had a little run-in with a kitchen cabinet," she lied, brushing off the gravity of the bruise.

Ryder, who had been sitting at the kitchen table, stood up and approached, his own expression mirroring Lucas's concern. "That looks pretty bad for a run-in with a cabinet," he commented, his tone suggesting he wasn't entirely convinced by her explanation.

Sophia maintained her facade, insisting it was a silly accident. Lucas, though not convinced, decided not to press the issue further. "Let me make you some tea," he offered, hoping to provide some comfort.

As Sophia settled into a chair, Lucas busied himself in the kitchen, while Ryder tried to engage her in light conversation, hoping to ease the tension. They talked about mundane things, the weather, the neighborhood, anything but the bruise that was like an elephant in the room.

Lucas returned with a cup of herbal tea, its steam carrying the subtle scent of peppermint. He handed it to Sophia, their fingers brushing briefly—a silent exchange of support.

Sophia asked about Emma, her niece, changing the subject to something more pleasant. "She's at school," Lucas replied. "She's been doing really well lately, lots of A's on her report card."

The trio sat together, the concern for Sophia hanging in the air, but also a sense of camaraderie. They were friends, perhaps something more, united by a bond that was only strengthened by moments like these.