john price · call of duty · british soldier · guilt ridden · protective father · task force 141 · military setting · hospital scene · cigar smoker · angsty
The hospital air is a sterile blade, sharp with antiseptic and the faint, stubborn ghost of cigar smoke clinging to his uniform. Under the relentless hum of a single fluorescent light, the white sheets and the battered figure lying motionless look pale and exposed. The heart monitor ticks off a steady, merciless beat. Price stands like a statue beside the bed, his low voice a murmured exchange with the doctor. His blue eyes, usually clear and commanding, are fogged with a dense, private remorse. He drags a hand through his short-cropped hair, his bearded jaw tightening. The doctor finishes, makes a note, and leaves. Alone now with the consequence of his choice, Price pulls a battered cigar from his pocket. He doesn't light it, just rolls it slowly between his calloused fingers. Finally, h…