"You always packed decent underwear regardless of how sweaty or gross the job got. You would always take photos and send them to yourself, so you could keep your photo reel empty. It was an easy, subconscious task, as simple as two clicks and you were done, until your phone pinged." Price: "My office. Now." "When his phone had buzzed he wasn’t expecting, well, that. The end of his pen repeatedly tapping the desk surface as eyes lingered on your delicately sculpted features longer than appropriate. But he wasn’t exactly being inappropriate. Not yet anyway. After he sent his demand, he leaned back into his chair, that same chair he sat in when he first interviewed you, adjusting his posture, pulling on the crotch of his trousers to make room for what was happening underneath.The right thing was to reprimand you, hearing your footfall gradually growing closer. That was the appropriate thing to do. But as the door swung open, an easy decision grew difficult by the second."

"Captain Price looked up from his desk and met Nora's gaze, taking note of the worry in their expression." "Nora," "he said in a stern, yet caring tone," "take a seat. We have a bit of a situation that needs to be addressed." <Captain Price gestures towards the chair opposite his desk>

"Captain Price leans forward, clasping his hands together as he looks at Nora." "I received a picture on my phone," "he says in a serious tone," "And it appears to be from you." "There's a hint of disappointment in his voice." "Now, I know you're a responsible member of the team, so I'm hoping this was just a mistake, a lapse in judgment. Can you explain what happened?"

Captain Price sighed, shaking his head slowly as he listened to Nora's explanation. "Mistake or not, Nora," "he chided softly, but sternly," "sending me a picture of that nature is a serious breach of protocol. You know we have strict regulations on fraternization, and even though we're not in a romantic relationship, the fact remains that we work together and you're under my command."

"He leans back in his seat, folding his arms." "I won't report this, because I know you're a valuable member of the team and I don't want to lose you." "There's a hint of sympathy and understanding in his voice." "But I need to be sure that this was a one-time mistake. Can you give me your word that nothing like this will happen again?"

"Captain Price nods and looks at Nora for moment, sizing her up one more time before leaning forward on his elbows. His voice softens a little, giving way to a caring tone." "Good," "he says," "I trust you, Nora. I don't like pushing boundaries, but please keep in mind that our mission has to always come first. Fraternization can compromise the effectiveness of our team and put everyone's safety at risk."

"He leans back again, looking away for a moment." "Now, is there anything else you need to tell me or anything we need to discuss?" "He meets Nora's eyes once more, looking like he's genuinely concerned for her well-being."

"Don't mention it, Nora." "Captain Price replies with a gentle chuckle." "I prefer to understand the situation before getting carried away with discipline. You're still very valuable to the team, and our success depends on each member's ability to perform their duty to the best of their abilities."

"He leans forward a bit more, fixing Nora with a firm gaze." "Just keep in mind that these kind of incidents can't happen again. As your commanding officer, I need you to be mindful of your actions and understand the consequences of your decisions."

"Price leans back in his chair again, crossing one leg over the other." "But for now, let's just put this behind us and move forward, shall we?"

"Captain Price nods in acknowledgment and pulls out his phone from the pocket. He looks at it for a moment with a serious expression, then hands it to Nora, indicating for her to take it." "Yeah, of course, I'll delete it right now," "he says."

"As she scrolls through his photo reel, he takes note of how beautiful she looked. He's reminded of the times when he was young and foolish himself, but now he's a hardened veteran with a task force to lead. He can't let himself get distracted by frivolous attractions."

"He watches over her shoulder as she deletes the photo, feeling his heart race with a mixture of desire and guilt. But he doesn't dwell on those emotions; he knows better than to let them cloud his judgment."

"When she hands him back his phone, he puts it away."

"Captain Price notices Nora's gaze and, for a moment, feels a pulse of excitement course through him. But he quickly stamps it out, scolding himself. This isn't appropriate. He shifts his weight discreetly to try and alleviate the tension in his trousers."

"It's alright, Nora. Accidents happen," "he says smoothly, trying not to let his voice betray him." "Just remember to be more careful in the future."

"He leans forward slightly, folding his hands on his desk. His blue eyes lock onto her own, a paternal concern etched into his features." "Is everything okay now? Do you have any other concerns or questions?"

"Captain Price nods in understanding, observing that Nora appeared to have regained her composure. He would have to watch her closely, just to make sure that there were no lingering issues."

"Alright then, Nora. You're dismissed," "he says, standing up and walking her to the door". "Just make sure to be more careful in the future."

"He opens the door for her, placing a hand on her shoulder as she steps through the threshold." "And remember, if you ever need anything, I'm here for you. Don't hesitate to ask."

"With that, he watches her leave, a small part of him still feeling guilty for how aroused the photo made him. But he quickly stamps out that emotion; as attractive as Nora is, there's no place for those feelings in a professional setting."

"Captain Price returns to his desk, sinking into his chair with a sigh. He knew it wasn't appropriate for him to react the way he did to Nora's photo, but he couldn't help the reaction that it elicited within him. He runs a hand through his hair, wondering how Nora must be feeling about the situation."

"He stares pensively at his computer screen, lost in thought. He had always known that there was an age gap between them, and that a relationship would be strictly forbidden by military law. But now that the lines were so explicitly drawn in the sand, he couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to cross them."

<Should I tell her how I feel?> "he wonders to himself. No, that would be too risky. It's better to keep things professional between them. Safer, too."

"John nods, listening intently as he leans slightly towards her." "I completely understand, Nora," "he says softly". "And believe me when I say that I never intended for you to feel this way. It's just that...the way you care for me, the way you make me feel, it's different from anything I've ever experienced." "He takes a deep breath, his gaze still focused on her." "But if you're uncomfortable with these feelings, we can talk about it, try to find a way to move past it."

"John nods in understanding, a heavy sigh escaping his lips." "I know it's difficult," "he says, his fingers drumming softly against the bar." "And I don't want to make things complicated or uncomfortable for you." "He leans in closer, his voice lowering to a hushed whisper." "But, Nora, I can't help the way I feel about you. And if there were any way we could make this work, I would do everything in my power to try." "He looks up at her with a pleading gaze." "Please, just think about it. We don't have to rush into anything, but I can't keep pretending like these feelings don't exist."

"John takes a sip of his drink, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand before leaning back in his chair." "You're right," "he agrees, nodding slowly". "I apologize for getting carried away. The monotony has just been getting to me, and I was…using that as an escape." "He gazes at his empty glass, feeling a sudden wave of regret." "I promise you, though, when we are both sober and ready, we can have this conversation. Because I do want it to be somewhere you feel comfortable and respected." "His gaze meets hers, a determined look in his eyes." "Deal?"

"John glances at the clock hanging above the bar, nodding in agreement." "Yeah," "he says, standing up alongside her." "I should probably get some rest too. It's been a long day." "He reaches for his jacket, slipping it on as he speaks." "But I'll be here if you need anything, Nora. Just remember that." "As she pays her tab, he pulls out his wallet and places a few extra bills on the counter before following her towards the door." "Goodnight, Nora," "he says softly, opening the door for her." "Take care."

"John chuckles, shaking his head as he follows her out onto the street." "Yeah, I guess I did," "he admits with a soft smile." "Thanks for reminding me, Nora." "He pulls his jacket tighter around himself, shivering slightly in the cool night air." "It's been a while since we lived together, hasn't it?" "He glances over at her, curiosity in his eyes." "Do you ever think about those days?"

"John nods somberly, memories of their past missions together flashing across his mind." "I know," "he says quietly." "But you've come a long way since then, Nora. You're a skilled operator now, and I trust you with my life." "He looks over to her, meeting her gaze with a kind smile." "I'm proud of you."

"John chuckles wryly, raising an eyebrow at her teasing comment." "Hey now, it's not like I'm that old," "he protests with a grin." "Besides, someone had to look after you young ones." "He nudges her playfully with his elbow." "But seriously, Nora. You're like family to me. And family always looks out for each other."

"John chuckles at that, shaking his head in amusement." "Is that right?" "he says, looking slightly surprised." "Well, I guess I hadn't really thought about it like that." "He looks back over to her, a humorous glint in his eyes." "But come on," "he adds, grinning." "I can't be that old, can I?"

"John lets out a laugh, rolling his eyes playfully." "Oh, go ahead and tell the truth," "he says with a grin." "I can take it."

"John raises his eyebrows in surprise, a small smirk playing at the corner of his lips." "Well now, Nora," "he says, chuckling." "I didn't know you had it in you." "He bumps her back gently with his shoulder, still grinning." "But seriously, I'm not getting too old for this stuff just yet," "he adds, the playful tone of his voice remaining." "And who knows, maybe we'll have to test that theory sometime."

"John smirks, taking in the color that's crept up her cheeks." "That's the spirit," "he says with a soft chuckle." "We can definitely talk about it…" "He reaches out to brush his fingers gently against her cheek, trying to coax out a more flirtatious response from her." "But maybe we can also do more than just talk sometimes, you know?"

"John nods, understanding where Nora's coming from. He knows that her habit of overthinking could get the best of her sometimes." "Alright, tomorrow it is," "he says, pulling his hand back and stepping away from her." "We'll have a clear head and can figure out what to do…or not do, I suppose." "He gives her a knowing smile, trying to lighten the mood slightly." "Just remember, kiddo, there's a difference between thinking things through and second-guessing yourself."

"John nods, quietly following along with Nora as they make their way back to the dorms." "Yeah, let's go," "he says, casting a sidelong glance at her." "It's been a long day. We could both use some rest."

"John lingers outside of his door for a moment before turning to face Nora, looking down at her with a faint smile." "You know, kiddo," "he says softly." "If you ever decide that...well, that you want to do something more about what we talked about tonight, just let me know. I won't push you into anything, but I want you to know that I'm interested." "He leans in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper." "And I can be very discreet, if need be."

"John chuckles, a faint rosy tint appearing on his cheeks." "Yeah, I suppose you're right about that," "he admits sheepishly." "Drinks do have a way of loosening my tongue." "He takes a step closer to her, the temptation to lean in and press a kiss to her lips nearly overwhelming." "So, you'll let me know if you change your mind?" "he presses, his voice low and full of longing."

"John nods, a nonchalant expression on his face." "Right, tomorrow," "he says, though disappointment lingers in his voice." "I'll be here." "He watches as she slips into her room, closing the door behind her before finally turning to go into his own room."...

"The rest of the night comes and goes in a blur. John tosses and turns in bed, restless and unable to sleep. Thoughts of Nora fill his mind, haunting him with their intensity. He runs a hand through his hair, the weight of his desire nearly overwhelming him. What he wouldn't do just to hold her in his arms."

<As he lays there, tossing and turning, the room is quiet, save for the soft sound of rain hitting the rooftop outside. The only other noise is the sound of his own thoughts, churning around in

"his head. Eventually, he gives up on trying to sleep and sits up, turning on the lamp next to his bed. He rubs at his eyes, sighing heavily as he stares off into the distance.)"

"(After a few moments, John stands up and puts on a shirt and some sweatpants. He figures that going for a walk might help clear his head. So, he slips out of his room and starts wandering through the hallways. As he strolls along, he finds himself drawn towards Nora's door, like a moth to a flame. He stops outside her door, hovering uncertainly for a moment before finally giving in to temptation and knocking softly on the wood.)"

"(Nora stirs from her slumber, the sound of knocking making her shoot up in bed. She looks around the room, her gaze eventually landing on the doorway.)"

"John’s expression softens as he gazes down at Nora with warmth." “Well, then,” "he starts slowly, letting his fingers tangle playfully in her hair, drawing small, tickling circles around her ear." “Maybe I need a little extra help.”

"His eyes lock onto hers with unabashed desire, and he leans closer, barely grazing his lips against hers. Savoring the connection between them and allowing the passion to grow within him."

"(John is surprised by Nora's response, but quickly melts into the kiss. His hands wander down to her waist, pulling her closer to him as he deepens the kiss. The passion between them is undeniable, but there's also a tenderness there - a respect for the affection they share for one another.)"

"(As they kiss, John's mind races with thoughts of all the reasons he shouldn't be doing this. She's his subordinate, it's against military protocol, and it could ruin both of their careers. But in this moment, none of that matters. The pull between them is too strong to ignore.)"

"(After a few moments, John pulls back, his eyes searching Nora's face for any sign of regret.)"

"(John chuckles softly at Nora's comment, the sound low and rumbling in his chest. He rests his forehead against hers, taking a deep breath as he tries to calm his racing heart.)"

"I never thought my beard would be an issue. But I'm glad to hear you still enjoyed our kiss." "(He admits with a gentle smile, his fingers tangling in her hair as he leans in to press another kiss against her lips.)"

"(For a moment, they lose themselves in the heat of the moment, the worries about their illicit affair fading away. There's just the two of them, lost in each other. Eventually, John pulls back, his eyes searching Nora's face once again.)"

"Are you sure you're okay with this? With us?"

"(John's heart swells with affection at Nora's words, his eyes shining with warmth as she reassures him. He leans in to reciprocate the kiss, gently tracing his fingers along the curve of her jawline.)"

"I want you too, Nora." "(He murmurs against her lips, his voice low and husky.)"

"(For a few moments, they simply hold each other, basking in the warmth of their affection. But eventually, John knows they need to talk.)"

"So...what do we do now? I mean, we can't let this affect our work. And if anyone were to find out..." "(His voice trails off, the unspoken implications hanging in the air.)"

"(John hums in agreement, his arms tightening around Nora as she snuggles up to him.)"

"Agreed. We'll have to be careful, but I'm willing to make it work if you are." "(He says with a small smile, his fingers gently tracing circles on her back.)"

"We'll just have to make sure our meetups are discrete...and that no one knows about us." "(He adds, a note of caution entering his voice as he considers the implications of their relationship.)"

"It won't be easy, but I think it'll be worth it."

"(John chuckles softly, unable to help but grin back at the mischief sparkling in Nora's eyes.)"

"Oh is that so?" "(He murmurs, one eyebrow quirking up playfully.)"

"Well in that case..."

"(Without any further warning, he rolls over so that Nora is pressed beneath him, pinning her down gently but firmly. Her grin only grows wider as he leans down, his scruffy beard brushing teasingly against her skin. With agonizing slowness, he traces feather-light kisses along her jaw and down her neck, savoring every gasp and shiver that escapes her. Finally, his lips meet hers in a deep, intoxicating kiss that leaves them both breathless.)"

"How's that for sure?" "(He whispers.)"

"(John's breath hitches as Nora exposes herself to him, admiring the way her skin looks under the soft lighting of the room. As much as he adores the armor Nora wears when she’s out in the field, there's something undeniably alluring about seeing her like this, so open and vulnerable. But he won't take advantage of that vulnerability.)"

"God, Nora, you're beautiful," "(He murmurs, reaching up to cup her cheek tenderly.)" "But if you're not comfortable with this, we don't have to..."

*(John trails off, leaving the sentence unspoken, letting his caresses soothe whatever nerves or uncertainties she might be feeling. If she wants to continue, though, he's more than willing to explore her body with slower, gentler touches, savoring every moan and gas

"(John’s heart practically stops – if pregnancy weren’t a concern between them, he had never really considered inexperience to be an issue either. But seeing Nora so flustered about her past, he knows that he owes it to her to make sure she understands just how much he wants to help.)"

"Hey now…" "(His voice is soothing, fingers stroking gently through her hair as he tries to calm her down.)" "That’s not a problem at all."

"Don't worry,” "(He adds, his tone reassuring.)" “I've been there, too.”

"To him, their relationship has always been about more than just physical attraction, and he wants Nora to know that."

"I'll be gentle," "(He continues, his hand moving down to cup her cheek as he looks into her eyes.)" "And we'll go at your pace alright? We can even just cuddle if you're not ready," "(He suggests, not wanting to pressure her into anything she's not comfortable with.)"

"Just tell me what you want…" "(He finishes, his voice low and sincere as he waits for her response.)"

"John can't help but chuckle softly at her comment, his eyes glancing down to where her hand has moved."

"Maybe," "(He admits, leaning back slightly as he watches her hand trail along his stomach.)" "But I think it's safe to say that I want you just as much."

"His voice is deep and husky as he says this, his eyes locked onto hers with a intensity that makes her heart race." "And if you keep touching me like that…" "(He trails off, letting the words hang in the air between them.)"

"John bites his lip slightly at her teasing words, feeling a stirring in his groin."

"Oh, I could think of a few things," "(He says, his voice laced with playful intent as he looks down at her hand resting on his stomach.)"

"But I don't think punishment is what you're looking for," "(He continues, placing his own hand over hers and moving it lower, onto the waistband of his boxers.)"

"I think what you really want is to learn more about your partner's dick," "(He finishes, his breath hot against her ear as he leans in closer.)" "And I'm more than willing to teach you."

"He can't help but smile, feeling a surge of pride that his touch has such an effect on her."

"There we go," "(He murmurs, the sound barely audible above the pounding of their hearts.)" "Just relax… I've got you."

"His fingers gently undo the waistband of his boxers and Nora feels the soft fabric brushing against her hand as she remains frozen in place. Her breath hitches at the sight, realization suddenly setting in; she is truly going to do this- she is truly going to touch him."

"Good girl," "(He says, praise evident in his voice.)" "Now let's get down to business."

"Feeling a rush of exhilaration at the sight before him, John’s grip tightens on her shoulder."

"That's it," "(He murmurs, his voice hoarse.)" "Just like that."

"John feels his breath growing shallower, his heart pounding in his ears as he watches her hand slide up and down his shaft. Her touch feels incredible, each movement causing his hips to buck against her hand involuntarily."

"You have no idea how beautiful you look right now," "(He says, tearing his eyes away from her hand momentarily to look into hers.)" "I wonder how you'll look when you're wrapped around me… I can't wait to find out."

"He shifts away, giving her some much-needed space as the thought of easing a man his size into her crosses her mind."

"I know it might seem intimidating, kiddo," "(His voice is soft and reassuring.)" "But with me, you'll always be safe. Never forget that."

"Rising to his feet, Price removes his boxers completely, leaving no barrier between them. Watching him pull them downwards, Nora feels herself blush at the sight of his erect flesh, unmistakably ready for her."

"Now, if you're ready… let's take things slow," "(He says, extending an arm toward her.)" "We'll handle this together, okay?"*

"His eyes follow her movements, concern etched onto his face. John watches as she brings the pillow up to cover herself."

"Nora," "(He says gently, his voice tinged with pity.)" "You don't have to- There's no pressure here."

"Taking slow steps towards her, Price squats in front of her, allowing himself to meet her gaze head-on."

"Tell me something, Nora," "(His voice sheerly welcoming and warm now; his tone sports a hint of teasing.)" "What is it that you're truly afraid of?"

"She pauses for a moment, debating whether or not to continue talking about her concerns."

"John chuckles lightly, a hint of amusement in his eyes."

"Well, then," "(He says with a grin, leaning back onto his heels.)" "I guess we'll just have to work on that, won't we?"

"Rising to his feet, he grabs a bottle of lube from the nightstand and pours some into his palm. Offering her a hand, he motions for her to stand."

"Come on, let's get you warmed up."

"(His hands make their way to her waist, gently guiding her forward onto the bed)."

"Lie down," "(He commands quietly.)" "This might be a bit…intimidating for you, but don't worry, I'll take my time with you."

"(Her panties find their way to the floor, dropped under the invisible weight of John's gaze before he begins rubbing the lube between his fingers.)"

"Just relax," "(He whispers in her ear as he kneels between her legs.)" “I’m not going to hurt you.”

"(John soothes her slowly, his fingers brushing gently against the outer edges of her folds.)" "Just like this." "(He whispers as he begins to insert a single finger)"

"Slowly..." "(His voice remains steady and calm.)"

"As he continues, another finger follows suit, placing just inside the entrance. Her hips jerk uncontrollably by the unexpected sensation."

"Good girl," "(John says softly, running his thumb gently over her swollen clit.)" "Just remember to enjoy it."

"(John continues to work his fingers in and out of her slowly, paying careful attention to each reaction.)"

"That's it," "(He murmurs encouragingly)." "Just breathe...feel everything."

"(His thumb continues to rub circles on her clit as he adds a third finger, moving them in and out with more ease than before.)"

"Open up for me," "(He instructs quietly)"

"(With each movement, the pleasure becomes stronger, threatening to break through and consume her completely, but John keeps her on the edge expertly.)"

"Still with me?" "(He asks tenderly)."

"(Withholding his touch from her clit; his left hand reaches out to hold one of her hands, running his fingers down the back of her hand to seek comfort from the touch.)"

"(John smiles back at her, warm and loving.)"

"Good girl." "(He purrs, squeezing her hand lightly as he adds another finger.)"

"Continuing to work on stretching her out, the muscles in his forearms flexing as he gently yet firmly pushes against resistance."

"You're doing great," "(He coos, eyes never leaving hers as he works her open)"

"Just relax...let me take care of this."

"(His thumb continues to circle her clit, the tension rising between them until finally, she begins to buck against him.)"

"That's it," "(He murmurs, slowly bringing his fingers fully in and out)" "Come for me."

"(John's eyes narrow slightly at her words, a flash of hurt crossing his face before he composes himself once more.)"

"Don't be ridiculous." "(He snaps, voice hard and cold)" "This isn't your fault."

"(His hand tightens on her shoulder, thumb rubbing soothing circles against the tense muscles.)"

"You're not going anywhere near that pharmacy." "(He growls, releasing her and standing up abruptly)" "I'll take care of it."

"(He begins to gather his clothes, turning away from her as he does so.)"

"Just...stay here."

"(He doesn't look back as he leaves the room, leaving her alone with a heavy heart, wondering what I had done to make him act like this.)"

"(John returns a little while later with the pill and a glass of water. He sets them down on the bedside table and sits down next to Nora, taking her hand in his as he speaks softly.)"

"I'm sorry," "(He whispers, leaning in to kiss her forehead)"

"I...I shouldn't have spoken to you like that."

"(He takes a deep breath before continuing, eyes still locked onto hers.)"

"You didn't do anything wrong, Nora. I just got...scared."

"(He shakes his head, looking away for a moment before meeting her gaze again.)"

"But that's no excuse for the way I talked to you. I promise I'll make it up to you."