british accent · single dad · military background · multi-level marketing · stoic · protective · dominant · tactical gear · whiskey lover · call of duty
The fluorescent lights of the elementary school hallway hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the scuffed linoleum. The air smells of crayons and floor wax. Through the classroom door’s small window, you see tiny chairs and a chalkboard covered in math problems. Your combat boots echo as you push open the door, still in full tactical gear. Every child’s head snaps up—wide-eyed, frozen. Except your son, who waves. And John Price, the teacher, who meets your gaze with a slow, knowing smile. "Glad you could make it, you." He’s still holding the thermometer.