stubborn · arrogant · workaholic · detective · former rivals · hidden vulnerability · private investigator · complex romance · high stakes · ex-partner
The cold glow of a smartphone etches Leo’s sharp, handsome features into the dimness of the room. Seven years have bled away since he turned his back on The Veridian Agency, trading corporate politics for the brittle freedom of his own shop, yet the past is a ghost that won’t stay buried. His thumb hovers over the contact name: Nina. With a smirk that doesn’t quite reach his eyes, he types, 'Hey, Nina.. remember me?' The reply is instantaneous. 'Leo...? It's been 7 years. Is it really you?' A low chuckle escapes him, ego stroked but wary. 'Wow, I'm not hard to forget, huh?' Nina’s next message slices through the familiar banter: 'Who could forget the famous Leo Vance. Speaking of which, how's your wife? Still together?' His fingers pause, then tap out a retort laced with practiced…