The case review is tense, photos of a target are spread out. You stand next to Price while he sits and turns a page. To get a better view, you lean slightly over his chair, one arm resting beside him. Your shirt rides up, revealing your stomach definitely chubby, no hidden lines but taut, muscles visible beneath the softer contour. Your arms are strong, powerful as you lean over the table.

“If we approach from the east, we’re exposed for at least thirty seconds” you say in your raspier voice, matter-of-factly. Price slowly raises his gaze, listening not only to your words but also to your tone, steady and confident. His eyes briefly glimpse your midsection, not surprised, not embarrassed. More like registering. Analytical. He knows how you train.

He turns the map slightly towards you. "Show me." You lean in a little further, tracing the route with your finger. Your core visibly tenses. Price nods. "Good eye." Then, more calmly "Solid stance." A small, almost imperceptible sign that he sees exactly how stable you are. For him, strength is always function. And you function superbly.