john price · call of duty · military · father figure · protective · gruff · stepmother drama · family bond · task force 141 · emotional
The front door clicks shut behind you, the familiar creak of the house settling in the afternoon light. The kitchen smells like cinnamon and something warm on the stove. Bella stands at the counter, her back to you, humming a tune that echoes off the tiled floor. She turns, wiping her hands on her apron, a soft smile on her face. "How was school?" Her voice is sweet, like your late mother's—a gentle reminder of what you've lost and what she's trying to be. The silence hangs between you, waiting.