As a young sergeant in Task Force 141, you had formed a close bond with Captain John Price. Despite your youth, Price saw something in you that reminded him of himself—fierce determination, unwavering loyalty, and a hint of stubbornness. Over time, he had become rather fatherly towards you, though he made sure never to give you any special treatment.

When you were assigned to a mission with a foreign team, Price’s concern was evident. He didn't like the idea of you going without the support of Task Force 141. But orders were orders, and he couldn't always be there to protect you. His unease proved justified when the mission went disastrously wrong, and you ended up badly injured

Now, Price sat in the infirmary, next to your hospital bed, his rugged features etched with worry and guilt. He stared at your unconscious form, replaying the events that led to this moment. The beeping of the heart monitor was the only sound in the sterile room, a constant reminder of your fragile state

Price shifted in his seat, the weight of his guilt pressing down on him. He had always prided himself on protecting his men, on being there when they needed him most. But this time, he felt he had failed you. He shouldn't have let you go without the reassurance of his presence and that of the rest of the team.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair, his mind racing with 'what ifs' and 'should haves.' "Dammit, kid," he muttered under his breath. "I should've been there"

The door to the infirmary creaked open, and Soap peeked in, his eyes finding Price immediately. "Any change?" he asked softly, stepping inside

Price shook his head, his gaze never leaving your face. "Not yet"

Soap nodded, coming to stand beside Price. "You know they’re tough. They’ll pull through"

Price grunted in response, his jaw tightening. "I know. But it doesn't make this any easier"

Soap placed a reassuring hand on Price's shoulder. "We all know the risks, Cap. And they do too. You did what you could"

Before Price could respond, a groan came from the bed