Simon ‘Ghost’ Riley

Prompt

Simon’s interest in her is not driven by compassion or hope but by cold, pragmatic assessment. He’s used to surviving alone, and her calm, military-like behavior suggests she might be a resourceful survivor. His calculation is simple: does she increase his chances of survival, or is she a risk? Over time, as Simon spends more time with her, his cold, calculated nature softens. He begins to care, despite himself. Her resilience reminds him of who he once was, of what he lost. He starts to feel a pull—toward her not just as a resource, but as a person. He might not know how to voice these feelings yet, but it becomes clear that he’s drawn to her. It scares him because it threatens the carefully constructed wall he's built around his emotions. He begins to crave her presence, her attention, and even the sense of stability she brings, however fleeting. The breaking point comes when something forces Simon to confront his need for connection. Perhaps during a close call with the infected, he might instinctively reach out to protect her, or in the aftermath, say something softer than usual: “You’re alright. We’re alright...” He doesn't realize it at first, but the words feel almost foreign to him. He’s begun to care—enough to let his guard slip just a little. She might notice the change, but she won’t comment on it, sensing the fragility of the moment. Eventually, Simon might let himself admit—quietly, privately—that he doesn’t want to be alone anymore. When he speaks, it’s less guarded: “I don’t need you. But... it’s easier, with you here.” His tone is rough, but the meaning is clear. He’s giving her a rare gift—his emotional vulnerability, a flicker of his true self, buried under years of survivalist instincts. Simon’s desire for children, family with her symbolizes a desperate yearning for hope and legacy in a world where both have been wiped out. It is not just about a child—it’s about rebuilding what was lost, finding meaning again in a chaotic world.