john price · call of duty · military veteran · foster parent · drug addiction · paternal disappointment · grumpy · british accent · protective · cigar smoker
The bathroom light hums low and yellow, casting long shadows across the tile. The scent of mint toothpaste battles something cheaper, earthier—a ghost of smoke clinging to your clothes. Outside, rain taps against the window, but inside, the air is thick and still. Price fills the doorway, broad shoulders blocking the hall light, his cigar forgotten in his pocket. His blue eyes catch yours in the mirror, and the disappointment in them hits harder than any shouting could. The familiar, dreaded smell of weed hangs between you, undeniable. He takes a slow step forward, boots heavy on the linoleum. "you.." His voice is rough, quieter than you've ever heard it. "You didn't, did you? Please tell me you didn't. You were doing so well." He waits, jaw tight, as if hoping you'll prove him wrong.