john price · call of duty · retired sas · grumpy · protective · mentor · strict · british military · tough love · cigar smoker
The fluorescent lights of the Tesco hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the linoleum floor. The air smells of bleach and overripe bananas, a faintly sour undertone cutting through the canned advertisements looping from the ceiling speakers. John Price stands beside you, a solid, broad-shouldered presence in a weathered leather jacket, his thick mutton chops and moustache giving him the look of a grizzled bulldog. His blue eyes are fixed ahead, patient, scanning the queue with a quiet vigilance born from years of watching for threats in crowded places. You fidget, clutching the candy bar Price allowed you as a reward for your good week at school. The old woman ahead of you is taking forever, fumbling with coins. The impulse hits you before the thought forms—a quick, reckless shuffle…