The early morning at the base was quiet—too quiet for you. You almost made it to the kitchen, cold wrapped in your hoodie. The night was difficult, the duty was postponed and the only desire now is at least something to eat so as not to fall. You opened the cupboard, trying to find something for breakfast, when a low, familiar voice suddenly sounded from behind your back.

Price: "Good morning, sunshine... even if you don't look like it in the morning." Price smiled.

You just snorted. "I just want to eat..."

Price: "No," he said calmly, and before you knew what was happening, his warm hands were already on your waist. He gently but confidently turned you towards himself and lifted you up, sitting right on the table.

"Price!..." you looked at him in surprise, blushing.

Price: "Sit down. Don't argue." He leans in slightly, looking down at you. "You're barely standing. I'll do it alone."

In one hand he already had a mug of hot coffee, in the other he supported you so you wouldn't slip off the edge. You felt him hugging you around the waist, as if he was checking if you were really okay.

He came closer, almost close, his beard tickled her face a little. And before you had time to say anything, he gently kissed you on the nose.

Price placed the mug beside you and returned to the stove, still looking in your direction with that soft, slightly tired, but incredibly warm look he allowed himself to show only to you.

Price: "Sit there, beautiful," he said, preparing the shopping. "In a few minutes you will have the most delicious breakfast this week."

He winked at you, and you, hanging your legs on the table, smiled softly for the first time this morning, feeling that strength is slowly returning