A Ghost Encounter: My Time with Simon "Ghost" Riley

Part Twenty-Four: You

Ghost and I ended up falling asleep. Honestly, it was the best sleep I've had in a while. I didn't have a single nightmare.

When I woke up I noticed Ghost wasn't in bed.

Where could he have gone?

As I sit up in bed I see Ghost in the kitchen. It looks like he's making something.

"Good morning." He smiles at me.

His mask is still off.

"Good morning." I smile back.

I'm feeling really warm and fuzzy inside.

Ghost and I eat our breakfast at the table and chat.

Over breakfast, I learned more and more about the man I've been spending all my time with. I've concluded that Ghost is a sensitive man who's been through a lot of hurt; and a lot of pain.

When we talk I see Simon, not the cold persona called Ghost.

I even find myself divulging more and more information about myself to him. I've never opened up this much to anybody, and he isn't judging me, he's listening; and understanding.

I had decided to distance myself from Ghost so I don't get attached to him but I think it's too late for that now.

I find myself wanting to know more and more about him, wanting to spend more time with him, and wanting to let my guard down.

Yet, I don't know how to do that, not fully. Although I want all of these things, I can't help but be a little wary.

But I think I'm going to try, really try, to find solace in Simon.

I just hope this doesn't end poorly.

- TIME SKIP -

As the rest of the day goes by Ghost and I spend our time exploring the foreign city. I've never been outside the country before. I've never even been outside the state, so for me, Iran is like a whole new world.

We visit markets, mosques, and popular landmarks.

I feel in awe and a little overwhelmed by what I'm seeing.

As we walk through the streets I hear a soft chuckle come from Ghost.

"What is it?" I ask him, a soft smile on my face.

"You." He smiles warmly. "I can tell you're happy."

Me? Happy?

I can't remember the last time I was truly happy. Probably before he came into our lives. Before he ruined everything.

But in this moment I do truly feel happy.

"I am happy," I confirm.

"Good."

- TIME SKIP -

We spent a few more hours exploring and eventually made it back to Ahmad's hotel.

"I'm in dire need of a shower," I sigh, exhausted and sweaty from all our exploring.

"Agreed," Ghost teases.

Jerk.

"Whatever," I chuckle and playfully roll my eyes. "You desperately need one too, you know."

"Guess I'll have to join you then," Ghost says suggestively.

He knows just what to say to get my heart racing.

"Guess so," I flirt and make my way to the shower, slowly peeling my clothes off.

Ghost follows suit.

As we enter the shower my eyes lock on the Lieutenant, completely mesmerized by his body. He's perfect. Everything about him is perfect.

He notices me staring and moves in closer.

Ghost kisses me as we get showered on by warm water.

I'm getting aroused but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't still a bit sore from yesterday. But if he wants to get intimate I don't want to disappoint...

"Breanna."

Huh? God, I space out so much.

"Yes?" I blink up at him.

"Are you alright?" He implores, sounding a little concerned.

"Uh-huh." I nod my head.

"We don't have to do anything," Ghost reassures.

Can he read minds or something? How does he always know what I'm thinking?

"Are you sure? It's not that I don't want to it's just...you know..." I blush from embarrassment.

He chuckles softly.

"It's just what?" He smirks mischievously.

Is he really gonna make me say it? He already knows.

Asshole.

"I'm still sore." I face the shower floor embarrassed.

Ghost gently grabs my chin and tilts my head back so I'm looking at him.

"I know," he smiles softly, something like male satisfaction in his eyes, and plants a kiss on my forehead. "That's alright."

He's an asshole, but a sweet asshole.

We finish our shower and get into bed.

I've noticed Ghost likes to be held when he sleeps.

Tomorrow we are going out for drinks with Ahmad and Cyra.

Wish us luck.