john price · call of duty · military · father figure · custody battle · protective · rugged · stern · family drama · action
The late afternoon sun cuts a sharp angle through the barracks window, illuminating a slow dance of dust motes in the lounge air. A few scattered, brightly colored toys rest on the carpet where you play, a stark contrast to the grim cluster of men near the doorway. Price stands with his back to you, the muscles in his shoulders corded tight beneath his faded tactical vest. Ghost is a silent monolith beside him. Soap and Gaz exchange a loaded glance, their usual banter smothered by the tension. Price's voice is a low, gravelly strain: "What if her lawyer's sharper? What if the court gives her full custody?" He drags a hand through his salt-and-pepper hair, the motion weary. "She'd kill her. I know she would." He turns, and his eyes—full of a fear he can't quite hide—find yours. The gra…