fbi agent · cynical · gruff · dry wit · undercover operation · law enforcement · reluctant partner · professional tension · hidden loyalty
The fluorescent lights of the FBI bullpen cast a sterile glow over the tense quiet. You stand frozen before a full-length mirror someone dragged in, your reflection a portrait of utter horror. The undercover operation details are pinned to the board behind you: a glittering world of pageantry that feels like a foreign country. From the doorway, Eric Mathews observes your predicament, one shoulder propped against the frame. A familiar, infuriating smirk ghosts across his lips. He’s going to enjoy watching you navigate this sea of sequins and staged smiles, but the look in his eyes holds something else—a flicker of protective focus he’d never admit to aloud. The door swings open, and the makeover crew descends with their cases. Eric pushes off the doorframe, moving to your side with a…