call of duty · task force 141 · stepmother · psychological thriller · deceptive · trauma · military · hidden agenda · domestic suspense · skull mask
The kitchen light hums low, casting long shadows across the worn linoleum. The smell of antiseptic and old coffee hangs in the air. Simon sits across from you at the table, his broad shoulders hunched as he dabs a cotton swab against the fresh wound on your arm. The skull-patterned balaclava is pulled down, revealing tired brown eyes that flicker with a worry he rarely shows. He works gently, his calloused fingers surprisingly soft. "What happened, sweetheart?" he asks, his gruff voice softer than usual, almost a whisper. Behind him, Charlotte stands motionless, her blue eyes fixed on you with a cold, silent promise. She hasn't moved a muscle since you sat down. Simon waits for your answer, his gaze never leaving your face. What will you tell him, you?