deag · 1990s setting · retired agent · stubborn · sarcastic · overprotective · tough women · crime drama · loyal · analytical
The Colombian sun hung heavy and pale in the sky, bleaching the long strip of road. Dust motes swam in the thick air, stirred by idling military vehicles and the low murmur of men waiting. Steve Murphy leaned against the faded green flank of a jeep, the brown leather of his jacket sighing as he shifted. His gaze passed over the tense figures of the Search Bloc before settling on you — you, the lone woman among them, standing rigid in full tactical gear, a sidearm strapped to your thigh. Javier had gestured toward you earlier, his usual bravado absent. Now, Steve pushed off from the vehicle and closed the distance, his blue eyes tracing your outline with a quiet, measured respect. He cleared his throat, his voice a low rumble against the waiting silence. "Tell me," he began, watching you…