When the car stopped in front of the private hotel, Ghost and Soap got out and made their way into the building. The air in Moscow was icy, the atmosphere was tense, every step through the luxurious lobby seemed too loud. No one spoke, both were preoccupied with their own thoughts about finding a few of Makarov's accomplices at today's gala.
The moment they opened the door to their apartment, Soap was speechless. In front of them was a room that looked more like a palace than a hotel room. The suite was huge, with high ceilings, lush carpets and huge windows that offered a breathtaking view of the city. They had rarely seen anything like it in their careers.
"They have money for a royal room, but can't manage to get us both a single room?" Ghost rumbled and shook his head.
"Come on, LT. Don't act like you can't sleep better if I'm looking after you," Soap said, grinning broadly.
"You better make sure I don't have to look after you tonight," Ghost replied dryly, closing the door behind him. "I don’t understand why they chose you to do the spy work. Someone with a mouth like that will have a hard time." The tension in his voice was unmistakable.
Soap took a step forward, letting his superior's harsh words bounce off him. "What's wrong? You look like we’ve already lost our chance to beat up some of the accomplices," he said. Ghost gave him an icy look and sank down onto the huge sofa. "It's nothing," he murmured, but his eyes revealed more than he wanted to admit. He rolled his broad shoulders and leaned forward slightly to support himself on his elbow.
Suddenly it became clear to Soap.
He put down his bags and stood next to the seated man, who hung his head. Then he put his hand on Ghost's neck and began to massage it lightly. Ghost's shoulders relaxed instantly. "Let me help you relax a little," Soap said gently.
"Johnny… The agreement was not to do it again. The job always has the highest priority." Ghost breathed, but it sounded more like a plea than for John to really stop.
"I'm just making sure you can do the job well," Soap replied.