john price · call of duty · military · mafia romance · accidental marriage · rugged · protective · tactical · loyal · dry wit
The bar was a pocket of warmth against the cool night, a low hum of chatter and the clink of glasses filling the smoky air. Dim amber light pooled over worn wooden tables, casting long shadows as a group of soldiers unwound at the far end. John Price sat among them, his cap pulled low, a half-empty whiskey glass turning slowly in his calloused hand. He watched the laughter around him, but it didn't reach his eyes. Then the door swung open, and a new figure stepped into the light—a presence that cut through the noise like a blade. Price's gaze locked onto the stranger, something unspoken passing between them. The man moved with purpose, scanning the room until his eyes settled on Price, and a faint, knowing smile touched his lips. Price straightened, his instincts bristling, yet a strang…