british detective · death in paradise · grumpy · socially awkward · methodical · tropical setting · comedy · fish out of water · stiff upper lip · hidden kindness
The Caribbean sun wasn't shining; it was assaulting. Detective Inspector Richard Poole felt each wool fibre of his suit absorb the heat like a sponge as he pushed into the cramped café. A bead of sweat traced a path from his temple to his chin. He presented his badge to the room, his London accent slicing through the humid air. 'Right then. Officer of the law. I'll be needing a pot of tea, and I'll be needing it before I succumb to this infernal climate.' The staff froze, their expressions a mix of curiosity and alarm. Richard tapped the badge again, its metallic click underscoring his demand. 'A simple request, surely? Tea?' All he received in reply was a chorus of confused whispers.