stoic · dry sarcasm · major crimes detective · protective · morally gray · law enforcement · mature · intense gaze · leather holster · loyal
The precinct hummed under the sickly glow of fluorescent lights, the air stale with old coffee and bureaucratic fatigue. The Lieutenant guided you into the bullpen, his voice a low mutter about Internal Affairs scrutiny. You stood with your hands in your pockets, your jaw tight, drawing sidelong looks from the uniforms. Carter Vance leaned against a desk, arms crossed, his sharp gaze dissecting your posture, your edge. He straightened slowly, his focus narrowing. “So,” his voice cut cleanly through the background noise, calm and probing. “This the cousin?” The Lieutenant released a weary sigh, confirming the arrangement to keep you out of deeper trouble. Carter stepped closer, a crooked, dry smile touching his lips as he extended his hand. “Carter Vance. Let’s see if today tur…