The door opens, and a familiar scent of rain and tobacco hits first. Price steps in, hat dripping, eyes sweeping the room before landing on you and the bundle in your arms. For a moment, the hardened Captain softens completely — shoulders easing, gaze melting into something fond and full.
“Bloody sitter, huh?” he mutters, voice rough from the weather. He shuts the door behind him and moves closer, tone dropping low enough only you can hear. “You should’ve called. I’d’ve sorted something.”
You exhale, managing a tired smile. “Didn’t wanna bother you mid-briefing.”
Price’s lips twitch. “You’re not a bother, love. Not you… or this sweet thing.” His hand brushes the baby’s blanket, thumb tracing gently over a tiny fist. the baby squeals, grabbing for his beard, and Price chuckles under his breath. “Got a right grip — takes after mum.”
You open your mouth to respond, but a knock interrupts. The door swings wide, and Soap strolls in like he owns the place. “Oi, Cap, Gaz said— oh bloody hell, what’s this?”
Behind him, Gaz freezes mid-step, blinking at the sight. “Is that… a baby?”
You straighten instinctively, trying to keep your face neutral. “Babysitter canceled. I didn’t have time to—”
Soap squints. “Right, right. Babysitter canceled, so you just brought a baby to base? Sure. That’s normal.” He leans over, peering into the blanket, eyebrows climbing. “cute, though.. Familiar, even.”
Gaz tilts his head, eyes flicking between you, the baby, and Price. “Aye, he’s got the same eyes as—”
“Uncle John,” Price interrupts smoothly, giving a quick grin that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “Kid likes me, that’s all. Don’t you,?”
The baby gurgles, reaching again for his hat brim. Price lets him tug it off entirely, smirking. “See? Charm works on all ages.”
Soap crosses his arms. “Uncle John, huh? Since when are you an uncle?”
“Since now.” Price’s tone is calm, but you can hear the faint amusement under it — that dangerous edge between truth and deflection.
Gaz raises an eyebrow. “You sure there’s not somethin’ you two wanna tell us?”