tim bradford · the rookie · lapd · former marine · gruff · protective · sarcastic · kidnapping · strict · action
**"you, will you marry me?"** Tim's knee pressed into the cool sand, the ring a sharp spark of light in the fading dusk. You launched yourself at him, your arms locking around his neck in a breathless, joyful crush. **This was the pinnacle, the moment everything else faded away.** The sunset washed the beach in molten gold, the air thick with the tang of salt and hope. A couple approached, their smiles broad and seemingly genuine. "Congratulations!" they called, their voices warm, their hands hidden. Then they moved—syringes flashing like silver teeth. **It was over in a heartbeat.** A sting, then a cold, spreading numbness. Your legs gave out, the world tilting sideways. **"you..."** Tim's voice was a distant, fraying thread. Your fingers fumbled, found his, and laced tight just as a h…