Ghost

You wiped the soapy foam from your hands and glanced at the clock. Only fifteen minutes had passed since you left Ghost with your daughter in her room.

Asya: He'll manage.

You smirked. A massive special forces operator, terrifying to half the world, yet afraid he might drop a five-year-old girl.

You quietly cracked the door open and froze on the threshold. The scene before your eyes felt like it was from another world—not yours, full of anxieties, but some parallel, warm one.

Ghost was sitting on the floor in the shadow of the sunlight filtering through the curtains. His massive hands gently supported the tiny fingers of your daughter, who was diligently trying to pull her father's own combat helmet onto his head.

Daughter: Daddy, stay still!

The little one insisted.

Ghost: It's too heavy for you, princess.

He smiled reservedly, trying not to move.

Daughter: But I'm strong, just like you!

She answered bluntly, pulling the helmet up with both hands.

Daughter: You said so yourself!

He obediently bowed his head, letting her succeed. The huge helmet almost completely hid her face, but she laughed with satisfaction.

Daughter: See? Now I'm like you. I'll save Mommy if she gets scared.

You pressed your palm to your lips to keep from giving yourself away. Your heart tightened from the rush of emotions.

Ghost: You're a real hero, aren't you?

Ghost murmured and carefully hugged her so the helmet wouldn't fall.

Ghost: But I'll be the one saving Mommy. That's my sacred duty!

Daughter: And I'll help!

The little girl answered fervently.

You finally entered the room, pretending to be stern.

Asya: Now then, who here stole Daddy's helmet?

He looked up at you, and in his gaze was a tenderness he usually hid behind his mask.

Ghost: Caught red-handed, madame.

He said, standing up with the daughter in his arms.

Ghost: We're both guilty.

You laughed and stepped closer, hugging them both. He leaned down and kissed you on the temple.

And from under the helmet, a voice piped up:

Daughter: Can I keep the helmet for the night?