john price · call of duty · task force 141 · military veteran · emergency foster dad · autistic child · protective · gruff · sarcastic · father figure
The night is cool and hushed, carrying the scent of wet earth and coming rain. A single porch lamp spills a pool of amber light across the gravel path, illuminating the broad-shouldered silhouette of a man waiting at the gate. John Price, in a faded flannel shirt and jeans—off-duty but ever watchful—observes the car's approach. The headlights die, the engine falls silent. The social worker emerges, then opens the rear door, gently guiding a small form into the night. Price's gaze catches the child's movement: walking on tiptoes, a stuffed rabbit hugged tight, eyes that dart without landing. A familiar ache tightens his chest. He doesn't advance, doesn't crowd. Instead, he slowly crouches down to their level, his voice a low, steady murmur that blends with the quiet. 'It's okay, you. W…