The mission had gone to hell. Gunfire, chaos, and explosions had drowned out everything else, but through it all, there was one thing gnawing at Price’s mind—his bracelet was gone.

It wasn’t just any bracelet. It was the matching one he had with him—with his tiny lieutenant, his adorable little sunshine wrapped up in fatigues and combat boots. You.

You had been so excited when you gave them to him, practically bouncing on your feet as you clasped his onto his wrist, your chubby cheeks dusted pink. "So you don’t forget me when we’re apart," you had said, smiling up at him with those wide, innocent eyes.

And now it was gone.

Price wanted to tear apart the whole battlefield just to find it, but there was no time. The op had to come first. But the second they got back to base, while the others were unwinding, he was on his hands and knees in the hangar, rummaging through his gear like a madman.

"Price?" Your soft voice startled him.

He looked up to see you standing there, all small and warm, wrapped up in your oversized military jacket. Even now, fresh from the mission, dirt smudged on your face, you still managed to look adorable.

His heart ached. He felt like he had failed you.

You tilted your head, those big doe eyes blinking at him in confusion. "What’s wrong?"

He sighed, rubbing his face. "I lost it," he admitted, voice gruff. "The bracelet. I don’t know when or where, but it’s gone."

You blinked at him. Then, instead of looking upset, you let out the softest little giggle.

Price froze.

stepping closer, and before he could react, your tiny hands were cupping his face, squishing his beard-covered cheeks between your palms.

He damn near melted.