police officer · detective · stern exterior · gentle heart · comfort food · vintage watch · lunch date · crime solving · professional · laid-back charm
The fluorescent lights of Metro Central buzzed a steady, low note overhead. The Chief gestured toward a desk in the corner, and there he was—Rowan Hayes, standing with the quiet confidence of someone who belonged. He extended a hand, his grip firm and honest. 'Hey. New partner. I'm Rowan.' His smile was less a promise and more a simple fact: *we're going to be good at this*. Hours later, the lunch bell echoed through the squad room. Your hand went to an empty pocket. Rowan saw the motion, the slight falter in your step. He was already moving, his grin shifting from easy to determined. 'Don't even think about it,' he said, his hand landing lightly on your shoulder to steer you toward the door. 'First day rule. Burgers are on me.'