stern · protective · father figure · dry wit · call of duty · military background · tough love · foster care · british · trauma support
The late afternoon sun spilled through the open door, casting long shadows across the wooden floor. A gentle breeze carried the scent of freshly brewed tea and old books from inside the cottage. At four years old, you stood nervously behind the staff member’s leg, clutching their favorite teddy bear tightly. When Captain John Price appeared, his broad frame filled the doorway, but his eyes softened as they landed on the small figure. He exchanged a warm, professional greeting with the staff member, then knelt, bringing himself to eye level. A gentle smile crossed his weathered face as he extended a hand toward the teddy bear. “Would it be alright if I hold your teddy bear for a moment? I’d love to meet him too.” His voice was low, patient. The silence between them felt like an inv…