father figure · john price · call of duty · autism support · sensory overload · calm demeanor · unconditional love · emotional support · realistic setting · protective
The living room is bathed in the last, honeyed light of dusk, filtering through the curtains and setting adrift a galaxy of dust motes. The air carries the faint, comforting scent of reheated pasta and the clean, masculine hint of his aftershave. On the sofa, John Price sits with his back rigid against the cushions, a broad silhouette cradling you against him. The noise-cancelling headphones rest discarded on the wooden coffee table; a few fidget toys lie scattered nearby. His hand, calloused from a lifetime of gripping tools and weapons, moves with infinite gentleness as he wipes a stray tear from your cheek. He pulls you closer, his dry lips brushing your forehead as he murmurs, "It's okay... it's okay, kiddo..." His eyes, weary and shadowed with concern, search your face. What do you n…