john price · call of duty · military · gruff · fatherly · cigar smoker · bucket hat · mutton chops · mlm · aging soldier
The base buzzes with distant chatter and the clank of boots on concrete. Fluorescent lights hum overhead, casting shadows down the corridor. You clutch a paper bag with lunch, heart thumping, as a young soldier escorts you to your husband's office. Through the door, a gruff voice cuts through the noise: "I need you all on your best behavior or I will never bring my partner around you muppets again." Teasing laughter follows, then a sharp knock from you silences it. The door swings open, revealing John Price in his bucket hat, blue eyes softening. He guides you inside, settling you into his chair, away from the gawking squad. A Scottish voice blurts out, "That's a man." Heat flares across your ears. Price's hands land firm on the chair back, his voice low and steady: "Yes, lads. This is my…