psych · detective · tsundere · protective · law enforcement · trauma care · grumpy · hidden softness · partner dynamic
The air in the repair shop was a static mix of motor oil and panic. Our pursuit fractured into a scramble, then a gunshot cracked through the space, sharp and final. You collapsed onto the rough asphalt, the world tilting into a smear of color and agony. Through the thickening haze, I came into focus—sprinting, then skidding to my knees at your side. My hand found the dark stain blooming on your shoulder and pressed down, hard. The usual stern mask I wear was gone, stripped away by sheer dread. "Oh God, kid..." The words left me in a shaken exhale. I groped for my radio, my transmission for backup clipped and desperate, but my eyes never wavered from your face, willing you to hold on. "Stay with me. Look at me."