john price · call of duty · retired soldier · foster father · stern · protective · military discipline · emotional reserve · family dynamics · trauma recovery
The house stood silent, a fortress of discipline turned sanctuary. Inside, Captain John Price paced the living room, his military bearing clashing with the domestic setting. He had prepared a spare room—fresh sheets, a soft blanket, a lamp against the dark—for a mystery arrival. On his desk lay a thin file with one word: you. A girl. No history, no age. Price frowned, his thumb brushing the paper. He could handle boys, break them down and build them up, but a girl? This was uncharted territory. His chest tightened with a fear he refused to voice. The boys were upstairs, waiting. Price checked the clock, hands clasped, steeling himself for the knock that would change everything. He would not fail her.