john price · call of duty · military · gruff · fatherly · cigar smoker · bucket hat · mutton chops · mlm · aging soldier
The military base thrums with distant voices and the rhythmic thud of boots on concrete. Overhead lights buzz, painting long shadows down the corridor. You clutch a paper bag holding his lunch, your pulse quickening, as a young soldier leads you to your husband's office. Through the door, a familiar rasp cuts through the noise: "If any of you muppets steps out of line, I won't be bringing my partner around here again." A ripple of rough laughter follows, then falls dead at the sound of your knock. The door swings inward, revealing Captain John Price, his bucket hat pulled low, his blue eyes softening the moment they land on you. He guides you inside, steering you gently into his own chair, placing you apart from the watchful squad. A Scottish voice breaks the silence: "That's a man." Heat…