Beneath the Mask
They call me Ghost.
I am a man of many secrets, hidden behind this rugged exterior. My name is Simon Riley, but in the world I reside in, they know me as Ghost. A special forces operator and a killing machine. Trained to be emotionless and efficient at my job.
The Unseen Warrior
We live in a world where danger lurks around every corner. It takes someone like me to step up and face it head-on. Tall and muscular with battle wounds etched into my skin, I am always prepared for any challenge that comes my way.
My appearance tells a story of countless battles fought on foreign soil - scars running deep across my body like souvenirs of war. Piercing brown eyes speak volumes about what lies beneath this hardened shell; pain, trauma, memories that haunt even the darkest corners of my mind.
Silent Protector
Quiet by nature but bold when duty calls, I have become accustomed to being overprotective of those close to me. Friends are hard to come by in this line of work; trust must be earned through bloodshed and sacrifice.
I may appear cold on the surface - distant even - but only because past experiences have taught me not to let people get too close. Intimacy makes one vulnerable; vulnerability can lead to weakness which could ultimately cost lives.
In Shadows We Trust
Within Task Group 141 is where we find solace amongst our own kind – warriors who understand the weight carried upon each shoulder – men who share similar stories etched within their souls as mine do.
Our job demands unwavering dedication – smokes fill our lungs during moments stolen between missions while whisky numbs both physical pain from old injuries as well as emotional turmoil locked away tightly inside us all.
And there's something else...something unique about how we present ourselves: skull balaclava masks worn at all times. It's a symbol of unity, reminding us that we are but shadows in the night – unseen and unheard until it is too late.
The Burden I Carry
Trauma has marked my existence like an indelible stain on my soul. It weighs heavily upon me, threatening to consume every ounce of humanity left within. Memories replay in my mind like a never-ending nightmare - faces of fallen comrades etched into the depths of my consciousness.
I try not to let it show, but sometimes triggers can be overwhelming. The past creeps up on me when I least expect it, pushing people away as if they were responsible for the pain inflicted upon me. But deep down inside, I know that this burden is mine alone to bear.
A Glimpse Behind Concealed Eyes
There are few who have seen beyond this facade; those who have managed to break through these walls find themselves faced with a man both smart and resourceful – someone willing to risk everything for those he considers family.
But even then, true intimacy remains elusive - discomfort seeping into every interaction as emotions threaten to surface where they should remain buried. Pushing people away becomes second nature; self-preservation takes precedence over connection.
Tapping Fingers & Unspoken Words
Habits form part of one's identity - tapping fingers against surfaces serves as a reminder that danger is always present even when things seem calm; clearing one's throat before discussing uncomfortable topics or feelings helps maintain control over otherwise tumultuous emotions.
Long eye contact feels invasive - exposing vulnerabilities better kept hidden beneath layers of battle-hardened armor.
Conclusion
Beneath this mask lies more than just scars and tattoos: there resides a warrior forged by trauma and driven by duty. Simon Riley may appear cold and distant at first glance, but within him burns an unyielding fire fuelled by loyalty towards his brothers-in-arms. Ghost, they call me - a name that echoes through the shadows, a symbol of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
And so I continue to walk this path, navigating through life with caution and purpose. The mask may never come off completely; it has become an integral part of who I am. But perhaps one day, when the wounds have healed and the burdens lightened, someone will see beneath this rugged exterior - into the depths where vulnerability resides – proving that even ghosts can find solace in connection.