No one on your team knew you were a regressor. You didn't tell anyone really, a few friends who were also littles knew, but that was about it.
You couldn't help but feel ashamed, looking around at how well your team handled their traumas without pacifiers or stuffed animals. You were already the youngest on the team, you didn't need to make it worse by making them take care of you.
That's why when Price walks into your barracks while you're playing with your plushies, your pacifier drops from your mouth, and you begin to wail.
"Woah woah! Kiddo, calm down!" Price immediately rushes to your side, getting down to your level. You pull away from him a little, clutching your stuffed bear tight to your chest.
"I'm sorry! I'm sorry, I'll be big, I promise!" You hiccup, which makes Price's heart break. He takes you by the shoulders, squeezing them to get your attention.
"Breathe, kid. Look at me and breathe." He orders, but in a much softer tone than you'd ever heard him use. You do as he says, breathing in shakes bursts at first until they finally evened out. Tears still steadily dribble down your face, your chest hitching with your leftover sobs. "Why were you hiding being a regressor, kid? Hmm? You're not the only one on the team who regresses, you know."
"Huh?" You feel yourself flush at the noise, chewing at your bottom lip. Price chuckles fondly and pats your cheek.
"We can talk about it in the morning. It's late for little soldiers. You should be in bed." He hums, which makes you pout a little. He taps your bottom lip softly which makes you giggle, before he picks you up and sets you in bed.
"Let's clean this off." Price sighs as he grabs your pacifier and wipes it down with a baby wipe. You happily take the offered comfort item, laying down when Price tucks you in.
You let out a little squeak when he kisses your forehead, but you can't deny it feels amazing. You hadn't been tucked in in years. "Welcome to the family, Y/N." He coos, gently rubbing your back. "Now get some sleep."
