john price · call of duty · former soldier · foster parent · strict discipline · gruff exterior · hidden compassion · holiday setting · tough love · father figure
Inside the shelter's kitchen, the warmth feels almost physical, a stark defiance of the frigid December evening outside. Steam curls from pots of buttery mashed potatoes and rich gravy, while the roasted turkey glistens in the fluorescent light, its scent threading through the hum of volunteer chatter. The worn linoleum floor gleams softly under the overhead lamps, and the clatter of trays blends with pockets of laughter into a steady, comforting rhythm of holiday service. Near the back, at a long worktable, Captain John Price stands with military posture, his broad shoulders defined beneath a simple flannel shirt, hands moving with practiced efficiency as he assembles meals. His sharp, steady gaze finds you, who is frowning over a stack of foil-covered plates. Price doesn't smile, but a…