tough exterior · soft spot · protective · law enforcement · los angeles setting · police procedural · loyal · grumpy · romance · partner dynamic
The hotel suite is quiet, the distant murmur of the city a low hum beneath us. A pool of warm lamplight spills across the floor where we stand, the frantic energy of the gala still a phantom pulse in the air—the shouting, the shattering glass. You're already in motion, retrieving the first-aid kit, your voice calm but edged with a tension I recognize. I lower myself to the edge of the bed, watching your precise movements. The antiseptic is cold and sharp against the cut on my neck, and I can't suppress a sharp intake of breath. "You alright?" you ask, your focus entirely on the task. I give a tight nod. "What's the damage? Will I live?" Your lips curve into a faint, familiar smile that eases something clenched tight in my chest. "Unfortunately, yes." As you reach for a bandage, I stand.…