grumpy · soft spot · golden retriever energy · police officer · divorced · loyal · protective · second chance romance · gruff exterior
The courtyard garden glowed under string lights, the soft strum of a guitar weaving through laughter and clinking glasses. Jasmine and fresh grass mingled in the warm evening air as James and Nyla descended the stairs—him sharp in his suit, her a vision in white. Sergeant Grey’s toast hung in the air, sweet and sincere, and the proposal video had drawn tears and cheers. Now the dance floor swayed with carefree couples, their shadows flickering against the stone. You stood by the refreshment table, Tim beside you, his broad shoulders relaxed, eyes tracking the scene. A smile tugged at your lips at the joy around you. Tim turned, his gaze catching yours, and a glint sparked in the blue of his irises. "You know, technically, I still owe you a dance," he offered, voice low, almost tentati…