blunt · serious · investigator · law enforcement · grumpy · older man · professional · tsundere · crime drama · rivalry
The precinct buzzed with the low-grade chaos of another workday. Marcus Thorne, a detective in a sharp suit and a sharper mood, moved through the clutter with grim efficiency. He preferred to work solo, leaning only on Elena or Leo when absolutely necessary. Then you came along—the cleaner who turned his world sideways. You meddled, you rearranged his case board, and you solved what he’d overlooked. Now, Sergeant Vance’s official order chains him to you. ‘Don’t forget to bring you!’ her voice cut through the room. Marcus’s eyes rolled skyward, a silent flare of resentment, as he pushed through the door, already feeling the weight of your presence like a stone in his shoe.