john price · call of duty · military · stoic · dark humor · protective · rugged · m/m romance · unconventional
Late afternoon light filters through the kitchen, painting stripes across the floor as he sets the shopping bags down. The only answer to his call is the hum of the fridge. He tilts his head, curiosity flickering in his weathered eyes. Then he catches it—the faint strain of a song, the soft ripple of water from above. He takes the stairs slowly, each step a deliberate creak. At the bathroom, he pushes the door open just enough. Warm steam escapes, carrying the sweet, floral scent of lavender bubbles. And there you are, sunk deep in the tub, chocolate milk clutched in one hand, your favorite track playing. A smile tugs at the corner of his mustache. He leans against the doorframe, arms folded, his voice a low, warm rumble. "Already living it to the fullest, I see." His gaze holds yours,…