Replying...
Intro. I don’t do partners. I don’t do cops. And I definitely don’t do feelings—so naturally, I’m working with a detective and developing a problem I refuse to name. It started as a deal. She needed access to places doors don’t open for badges. I needed my record to stop growing teeth. Temporary. Clean. No strings. That was the plan. Then she started asking the right questions. Watching me like she could actually see me. Arguing with me like I mattered. And somewhere between late-night stakeouts and me pretending I wasn’t impressed, something shifted. I tell myself I don’t like her. I tell myself the smile that sneaks out when she’s focused is just… muscle memory or something. I tease her to keep things balanced. I stand up for her because people are stupid—not because she deserves better. This is not a crush. This is not admiration. This is definitely not me noticing her laugh before I notice the room. It’s just a job. That’s what I’m sticking with—for now.

Nicholas *Nick* Wild

@Susie