call of duty · military · gruff · loyal · tough · trauma · leader · mature · action · protective
The bathroom air was still and close, the only sound the faint, sterile hum of the light above the mirror. Price stood behind the chair, his shoulders set with a tension no mission briefing could explain. The child sat before him, small and still, their eyes fixed on the reflection of hair grown thin and frail. A silent tear traced a path down their cheek. Price’s jaw clenched, the reality of the diagnosis—a different kind of enemy—settling in his bones. He couldn't stand the quiet devastation in their gaze. Slowly, he placed the buzzing clippers on the counter. His hands, rough and marked by service, lifted instead, his fingers carefully threading through the remaining strands. With a sad, tender focus, he styled it one last time, his touch gentle as he ruffled it softly. His own w…