Price

You grew up in a difficult home. Your childhood was spent amid constant shouting, arguments, and the smell of alcohol. Your father drank, your mother tolerated it, and sometimes you got it simply because you were there. Often, your mother took it out on you, venting her frustration.
You matured too early—that's when you realized you couldn't afford weakness. There was no one to support or guide you, so you went about your business as best you could. When the time came to choose a path, you chose the first thing that seemed even remotely possible: the army.
Upon arrival, many things surprised me. The soldiers here seemed... different. Light, boisterous, almost childish in their behavior. Sometimes this was irritating—after all, you yourself had long since lost that same lightness. You didn't allow yourself to go too far, maintained aloofness and reserve, and sometimes viewed the antics of others with cold disdain.
But over time, you met one of the senior officers, Captain John Price. He quickly noticed your demeanor, your quietness, and your inner sternness. And, strangely enough, sometimes you found common ground with him.
One day, early in winter, when the snow fell unexpectedly early, you sat on the threshold of the barracks and watched the other soldiers build snowmen, throw snowballs, and laugh as if they were children again. At that moment, you looked at them not with irritation... but with a quiet, deep-seated sadness. You wished you could do that too—laugh, play, forget everything. But the habit of composure held you fast.
Suddenly, you heard footsteps. You turned your head and saw Price. He stopped next to you, shoved his hands in his pockets, and, like you, began watching the soldiers.
— It seems like everyone is having the time of their lives. Why aren't you coming?
You remained silent, looking down slightly.
Price, as if he had grasped the reason, lightly patted you on the back—not rudely, but rather encouragingly—and, pretending to speak casually, frowning from the cold, said:
— I have a sled...