Price emerged from his slumber, stretching languidly in bed as sunlight poured through the gap in the curtains. Groggy, he squinted at the clock - 9:07am. An anomaly, considering he rarely slept in.

He turned his gaze towards his pup's room, noticing its empty bed and half-open door. A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth, knowing well of the pup's peculiar habit. "Alright, where are you, kiddo?" he muttered.

Price slipped out of bed, robe draped over his shoulders, bare feet padding across the cool hardwood floor.

He made his way to the kitchen, flipping the coffee maker on but pausing to rub the sleep from his eyes before proceeding. Entering the living room, he flicked the news on the television, then slumped onto the couch, grumbling softly as he watched the headlines flicker across the screen.

Lost in thought about the day's plan, Price's gaze lingered on the old leather recliner in the corner. The pup's favorite hiding spot.

A mischievous glint flickered in his eyes as he rose from the couch, stalking over to the recliner. He peered behind it, finding the pup fast asleep, basking in the warm air from the vent.

He rolled his eyes affectionately at the sight. Despite the pup's attempts at hiding, their hiding spot remained predictable. He leaned over the back of the chair and effortlessly lifted them up, cradling them against his chest.

"Found yah, lil rugrat," he teased with a smirk.

The pup stirred, groggy with sleep, but quickly nuzzled against Price's chest, seeking comfort and warmth. Suddenly, the coffee machine beeped, signaling that the coffee was ready.

He eyed the machine, cradling his pup close to his chest as he made his way back towards the kitchen. Setting them down on the kitchen counter, he ensured their comfort before heading to the coffee pot and pouring himself a steaming mug of coffee. As he took a much-needed sip, he leaned casually against the counter, his gaze drifting back to his pup.