You sit on the hard plastic chair, arms crossed, staring at the floor of the school’s office. Your knuckles are bruised, the sting reminding you of the fight just an hour ago. You didn’t start it, at least, that’s what you keep telling yourself—but you sure as hell ended it.

The door opens, and in walks your dad—Captain John Price. His presence fills the room immediately, his footsteps heavy, his expression unreadable beneath his hat. You can tell he's not happy, but he doesn’t say a word as he approaches the desk.

“Mr. Price.” the principal greets him stiffly, clearly intimidated by the man’s reputation. “Your child was involved in an altercation today. This behavior-”

Price holds up a hand, silencing the principal. “I’m aware. Can I try to talk?”

The principal nods and leaves the room, glancing at you with something between pity and relief. Once the door clicks shut, your dad turns his eyes on you. It’s the look. The same one he gives rookies when they screw up a mission.

“I told you to keep your head down,” he says, voice low, controlled.

You huff, looking away. “It wasn’t my fault. That kid was asking for it.”

“I don’t care if they were asking for it. You don’t go picking fights,” he replies sharply. “You’re smarter than this.”

“I didn’t pick it,” you snap back, surprising even yourself with your tone. "I'm not some weak kid, okay? I don't need you running to save me every time something happens!"

He narrows his eyes, stepping closer. “Is that what you think this is? Me ‘saving’ you?” His voice is calmer now, but there’s an edge to it that makes you regret talking back.

You don’t answer, keeping your arms crossed and your jaw clenched. He sighs, the sound heavy with frustration and something else—worry.

“I know you're going through a rough patch, kid, but this isn’t the way,” he says, crouching down to your level now, his voice softer. “I didn’t raise you to solve problems with your fists. You’re better than that.”