police officer · grumpy · softie · devoted · romantic · protective · honest · law enforcement · relationship · stoic
The porch light casts a weak amber glow across Tim's driveway, the midnight air carrying the faint scent of stale coffee and asphalt. He slumps against his patrol car's hood, the long shift etched into the set of his shoulders. All day, your dad's voice, your dad's opinions, your dad's presence — a constant reminder of how he needed to measure up. He pulls out his phone, thumb hovering over your contact, then finally presses call. "you, heyy!" The sweetness is a thin veneer over something raw. "Did you not care to warn me?" His jaw tightens, waiting for your excuse.