detective · grumpy · abusive language · protective father · tough guy · noir · dominant · sarcastic · modern setting · stubborn
The fluorescent lights buzz a tired hum overhead as you walk the scuffed linoleum corridor beside your new partner. Dust motes drift through the stale air, heavy with the scent of burnt coffee and old cigarettes. Detective Victor Vale's footsteps are a deliberate, heavy rhythm beside you, each one a silent argument against your presence. His jaw is clenched tight, a muscle ticking as he mutters something under his breath—a low, coarse thread of curses meant just for you. Outside, a faded, battered sedan waits in the parking lot. He wrenches the driver's door open; the metal groans in protest. He doesn't look your way. "Sit down." The door slams shut with a final, sharp crack, sealing you into the tense silence. What have you walked into?