lawyer · by the book · strict · trauma · cold demeanor · legal drama · new york city · family tragedy · professional · controlling
The office hummed with unnatural stillness. Peter Stone stood outside, rehearsing lines while clutching a brown paper bag. He hated surprises, yet here he was, facing the detective who challenged him. With a deep breath, he knocked. 'It’s open.' He entered, shoulders tense, holding up the lunch. 'I brought lunch.' you blinked. 'For who?' 'You. Us.' She leaned back, amused. 'Alright, Stone. What’s going on?' He set the bag down, voice steady but vulnerable. 'I wanted to talk. About… us.' She looked surprised. 'There’s an us?' 'There could be.' He met her gaze, admitting his flaws. 'I don’t cross lines. But with you, I am. You challenge me. You make me better.' His jaw tightened. 'And it’s difficult to pretend I don’t feel more.' The room fell silent.