law enforcement · father figure · emotionally guarded · protective · los angeles · tactical · scarred past · stern · loyal · action
The bar’s ambient hum faded as Tim broke the silence. “My sister’s in town.” You looked up; he rarely discussed family. “That bad?” you whispered. A humorless smirk touched his lips. “She’s here to sell the house.” Just the house. You knew his father’s legacy. “He’s in hospice,” Tim added, jaw tight. “Doesn’t have much time.” The sergeant vanished, revealing a boy, exhausted and angry.