Unseen | Ghost x Soap

Chapter 40: Exhausted

Soap's POV:

The morning light filtered through the small window, casting a soft glow over the room. My head pounded, the remnants of last night's alcohol still coursing through my system. I blinked groggily, trying to make sense of my surroundings. The barracks were quiet, the usual morning hustle and bustle yet to begin.

I shifted slightly, expecting to feel the comforting presence of Ghost beside me, but the space was empty. Panic flared briefly in my chest before I heard footsteps approaching. I sat up slowly, my body protesting the movement. Every muscle ached, and my head felt like it was stuffed with cotton.

Ghost appeared in the doorway, a towel slung over his shoulder. He looked refreshed, his hair still damp from a shower. "Morning, Johnny," he said, his voice soft. "I was in the bathroom."

I nodded, my brain sluggishly processing his words. "Morning," I croaked, my voice rough from sleep and dehydration.

He walked over and sat on the edge of my bed, his presence instantly calming my frayed nerves. "We need to get ready for breakfast with the team," he said, his tone gentle but firm. "We've got training to do."

I groaned, the thought of getting up and facing the day feeling like an impossible task. "I don't want to move," I mumbled, slumping back against the pillows. "Can't we just stay here?"

Ghost chuckled softly, his hand coming up to brush a strand of hair from my forehead. "We can't be late, Johnny. Come on, let's get you up."

I sighed, but the warmth of his touch was comforting. "Just a few more minutes," I pleaded, my eyes half-closed. "Stay with me."

Ghost's hand lingered on my face, his thumb brushing over my cheek. "We really need to get going," he said, though his voice was tinged with reluctance. "But I'll help you."

He pulled the covers back, and I reluctantly swung my legs over the side of the bed. My head swam, and I swayed unsteadily. Ghost was there in an instant, his arm slipping around my waist to support me. "Easy does it," he murmured, his breath warm against my ear.

With his help, I managed to stand, though my legs felt like jelly. He guided me to the small dresser, pulling out a fresh set of clothes. "Here, let's get you dressed," he said, his hands steady and sure.

I leaned against him, my exhaustion making every movement a struggle. He helped me out of my sleep clothes, his touch gentle and careful. The intimacy of the moment was overwhelming, and I could feel my heart pounding in my chest.

Ghost slid my shirt over my head, his fingers brushing my skin. He was so close, his presence a comforting anchor in my muddled state. "You're doing great," he said softly, his hands moving to my pants.

I managed a weak smile, my eyelids heavy. "Thanks, Ghost."

Once I was dressed, he helped me to the bathroom to wash up, the cold water a shock to my system but necessary. By the time we were ready to join the team, I felt slightly more human, though still exhausted.

We walked into the mess hall, the noise and chatter a sharp contrast to the quiet intimacy of the barracks. The team was already seated, their breakfast well underway. As we approached, Gaz looked up, a grin spreading across his face.

"Look who finally decided to join us," he said, his tone teasing. "Have a good night, you two?"

I felt a flush creep up my neck, but Ghost just smirked, guiding me to a seat. "Nothing you need to worry about," he said smoothly, his hand lingering on my shoulder.

Roach snickered, leaning forward. "Seriously, Soap, you look like you've been through the wringer. What did Ghost do to you?"

I glared at him, though it lacked any real heat. "Shut up, Roach."

Price raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Alright, that's enough. We've got a full day ahead. Eat up and let's get moving."

The team fell back into their usual banter, the teasing never quite stopping but the edge of it softening. I focused on my breakfast, the food helping to clear some of the fog from my mind. Ghost sat beside me, his leg pressed against mine under the table, a silent reminder of his support.

As we finished eating and prepared to head out, I felt Ghost's hand on my back, steadying me as I stood. "You sure you're up for this?" he asked quietly, his concern evident.

I nodded, though my head still throbbed. "Yeah, I'll be fine. Thanks for... all this.."

He gave me a small smile, his eyes warm. "Anytime, Johnny."

The day passed in a blur of training drills and exercises, my body moving on autopilot. Ghost was always nearby, his presence a constant source of strength. Despite the teasing and the fatigue, we worked seamlessly together, our bond unspoken but strong.