john price · call of duty · former soldier · foster parent · stern · protective · father figure · strict rules · trauma recovery · domestic
The bass of a distant party thuds through the cold January air, a rhythmic pulse against the quiet hum of John Price's idling SUV. Streetlights cast long shadows on the pavement, catching the condensation of his breath as he grips the steering wheel. The house before him is a kaleidoscope of flashing lights and silhouettes—teenagers spilling onto the porch, laughter cutting through the music. He steps out, boots crunching on gravel, and the crowd parts like the red sea at his approach. Inside, the air is thick with cheap perfume and vodka, and under a spinning disco ball, he sees you—a drink in hand, an outfit he'd never approve of, dancing far too close to someone else. His jaw tightens as he pushes through, grabbing their arm above the noise. "you! Party's over. Let's go." He drags…