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The scent of jasmine tea filled the kitchen, but to Lucy, it felt suffocating. She sat at the table, her fingers curled into the hem of her sweatshirt, gripping the fabric like a lifeline. Across from her, her mother stood stiffly, arms crossed, lips pressed into a tight, disapproving line.
"You don’t know what you’re saying," her mother finally spoke, her voice sharp enough to cut through the silence.
Lucy swallowed hard, her throat burning. "I do."
"No, you don’t." Her mother’s hands clenched at her sides. "You’re thirteen, Lucy. You don’t even understand yourself yet."
"Mom, it’s not a phase," Lucy shot back, her voice shaking despite her efforts to keep it steady. "I know who I am. I like boys and girls. That’s what being bisexual means."
Her mother scoffed, shaking her head as if she could dismiss Lucy’s words entirely. "You think this is some new trend? Some American idea you’ve picked up? Do you know what people will say?"
Lucy flinched. Of course, it had to be about other people , about the family reputation , about appearances . Never about what she felt.
"This isn’t about them. It’s about me," she insisted, her heart pounding.
Vanessa let out a harsh breath, her fingers pressing against her temples. "You think life is hard now? You think it’s difficult being my daughter?" Her voice wavered, a mix of frustration and something else—fear, maybe. "Do you want to make it worse for yourself?"
Lucy shot up from her chair, her face hot with anger and hurt. "I didn’t choose this, Mom! This is who I am!"
Her mother’s eyes darkened, her voice dropping into something cold. "Not under my roof."
Lucy felt the air leave her lungs, like she’d been sucker-punched. "What?"
"You will not speak of this again," her mother said, her tone final. "Not to me. Not to your father. Not to anyone. Do you understand?"
Lucy’s hands curled into fists at her sides, her nails digging into her palms. She wanted to scream, to cry, to make her mother see her, really see her. But she knew better.
Silence was survival.
So she swallowed the lump in her throat, ignored the sting in her chest, and nodded. "Yes, Mom."
Her mother exhaled, satisfied, as if the conversation had never happened. "Good. Now go wash up for dinner."
Lucy turned away, walking to her room with heavy steps, biting down on her lip so hard it nearly bled. She didn’t cry until she was behind a locked door, curled up beneath her blanket, muffling her sobs into her pillow.
She was thirteen. And already, she knew what it felt like to be invisible.
The Mid-Wilshire station was bigger than Lucy had expected—bigger, louder, busier.
She kept her posture straight, her K9 partner, Kojo, walking in perfect sync at her side. This wasn’t her first time transferring, but it felt different. Maybe because she wanted this to be a fresh start. Maybe because she was determined to prove herself.
Maybe because a part of her was still trying to outrun the pieces of herself she had spent years trying to bury.
Lucy had learned early on how to suppress things that weren’t meant to be acknowledged. She didn’t let herself look too long, didn’t let herself wonder what if , didn’t let herself stray from the version of herself she was expected to be. It was safer that way.
And yet, despite all of that, she still felt nerves creep in as she walked into her new precinct.
"Officer Chen, right?"
Lucy turned, spotting a tall woman watching her with an air of easy authority. She was assessing her, but not in a way that made Lucy feel unwelcome—more like she was taking stock of who she was dealing with.
"Yeah," Lucy nodded, clearing her throat. "Lucy Chen, K9 Unit."
"Detective Nyla Harper," the woman introduced herself, extending a hand. Lucy shook it firmly. "Welcome to Mid-Wilshire."
"Thanks," Lucy said, relieved that her voice didn’t waver.
Before Nyla could say anything else, a new voice chimed in—smooth, teasing, and laced with amusement.
"Well, well. Who do we have here?"
Lucy turned just in time to see another detective approaching. She was effortlessly stunning, her long, dark hair framing a face that was equal parts beautiful and sharp. But it was the way her gaze dragged over Lucy—slow, deliberate, unapologetic—that sent a jolt of something unfamiliar down Lucy’s spine.
Detective Angela Lopez.
"New transfer," Nyla answered, smirking as if she already knew exactly where this was headed. "Officer Lucy Chen, K9 Unit."
Angela hummed, her gaze dragging over Lucy’s uniform before meeting her eyes again. "Officer Chen," she repeated, like she was savoring the sound of it. "I like it."
Lucy felt heat creep up her neck, but she kept her expression neutral. "Oh um…"
Angela’s smirk deepened. "So, K9 Unit, huh? That’s hot."
Lucy blinked. " What? "
"She means cool," Nyla corrected, though the amusement in her voice made it clear she wasn’t about to intervene.
Angela leaned against a nearby desk, arms crossed as she continued looking at Lucy—openly, boldly, like she was enjoying the view. "No, I meant hot ."
Lucy’s brain stuttered. She had spent years training herself not to react when women looked at her a certain way, not to allow herself to think like that . But here was Angela Lopez, looking at her like that , and Lucy had no idea what to do with it.
Beside her, Kojo let out a low huff, and Lucy immediately reached down to scratch behind his ears, needing something to ground herself.
"So, Lucy," Angela continued, her voice dripping with playful interest. "You get a tour yet? Because I’d be more than happy to show you around."
Lucy swallowed, her throat suddenly dry. "I, uh—I think I’m good, but thanks."
Angela’s smirk didn’t waver. "Suit yourself. But if you ever change your mind…" She winked before pushing off the desk and walking away, hips swaying just enough to be distracting.
Lucy exhaled sharply, running a hand over her face.
Nyla chuckled beside her. "Welcome to Mid-Wilshire, Chen."
Lucy groaned.
This was going to be a long first day.
Lucy sat at her desk, hunched slightly over the stack of paperwork she needed to get through. Kojo lay curled up at her feet, enjoying a well-deserved break after their morning rounds. The station buzzed with activity around her, but she kept her head down, focused.
It was safer this way—blending in, keeping to herself. She had spent so long perfecting the art of going unnoticed in certain ways, and she had no intention of slipping up now.
Which was exactly why her entire body tensed when a familiar voice broke through her concentration.
"Seriously? You’re spending lunch doing paperwork?"
Lucy’s head snapped up, her heart skipping a beat as she found Angela Lopez leaning against the edge of her desk, arms crossed, watching her with a teasing smile.
"I, um—" Lucy faltered, fingers tightening around her pen. "I just wanted to get ahead."
Angela tilted her head, clearly amused. "That’s dedication. Or avoidance. Not sure which yet."
Lucy’s throat went dry. "It’s just… my first day. I want to make a good impression."
Angela hummed, like she wasn’t entirely convinced. "Relax, Chen. You don’t have to prove yourself to me. I already like you."
Lucy blinked rapidly, her stomach twisting at the implication. She’s just being friendly. That’s all.
Angela shifted, resting a hand on the desk as she leaned in slightly. "So, where were you before Mid-Wilshire?"
"North Hollywood," Lucy answered quietly, keeping her voice even.
"Ah, that explains it."
Lucy frowned. "Explains what?"
Angela smirked. "Why you’re so tense."
"I’m not—" Lucy started, but the knowing look on Angela’s face stopped her short.
"You’re stiff as a board right now," Angela pointed out, her gaze flicking from Lucy’s rigid posture to the way she clutched her pen like it was a lifeline.
Lucy swallowed, shifting slightly. "It’s just… a lot of change all at once."
Angela nodded, as if she understood, but the playful gleam in her eyes didn’t fade. "Well, I hope you’re ready, Chen. Mid-Wilshire’s different. We like to have fun here."
Lucy forced a small smile. "Fun is… good."
Angela chuckled, shaking her head. "You are way too uptight." Then, as if it was the most natural thing in the world, she reached out, tucking a stray strand of Lucy’s hair behind her ear. "We’ll have to work on that."
Lucy went completely still. Her breath hitched, heat creeping up her neck.
Angela pulled back, clearly enjoying herself. "Ever think about taking a real lunch break? Maybe with some company?"
Lucy opened her mouth, then closed it, her brain struggling to find the right response. "I—I should finish this first."
Angela let out a dramatic sigh. "Fine, fine. But one of these days, I’m dragging you out of here, no excuses."
With that, she shot Lucy one last smirk before sauntering away, leaving her sitting there, heart hammering in her chest.
Kojo let out a soft huff, and Lucy exhaled slowly, trying to gather herself.
She was in so much trouble.
The end of shift came quicker than Lucy expected. She had spent most of the day keeping her head down, avoiding any unnecessary attention—especially from a certain detective who had an uncanny ability to make her flustered with nothing more than a smirk.
She was gathering her things when she heard the familiar voice behind her.
"Chen."
Lucy turned to see Angela leaning casually against her desk, her dark eyes glinting with something unreadable.
"Me and Harper are heading out for drinks. You should come."
Lucy hesitated, shifting slightly. "Oh, um… I think I’m just gonna head home. It’s been a long day."
For the briefest second, she saw it—a flicker of disappointment in Angela’s expression. But it was gone almost as fast as it appeared, replaced by something far more familiar: teasing deflection.
"Right. Guess you just really don’t like me, huh?" Angela mused, crossing her arms.
Lucy’s eyes widened. "No! That’s not—" She exhaled, shaking her head. "I’m just… tired. That’s all."
Angela studied her for a beat, and then the smirk was back, slow and deliberate. "You sure ? Because I can think of a few ways to wake you up."
Lucy’s entire body tensed, warmth creeping up her neck. "I—um—I should go."
Angela’s smirk only deepened. "Shame. I was looking forward to seeing what you’re like after a drink or two."
Lucy swallowed hard, clutching her bag tighter. She took a small step back, suddenly desperate for an escape. "Goodnight, Detective Lopez."
Angela’s head tilted slightly, eyes twinkling with something undeniably smug.
"Goodnight, pretty girl."
Lucy turned so fast she nearly tripped over Kojo, her heart hammering in her chest as she walked away.
This was going to be a problem.
Lucy kept a firm grip on Kojo’s leash as he sniffed around the alleyway, his nose to the ground, searching for anything their suspect might have ditched. She focused on him, on the task at hand, on anything but the detective who had been occupying far too much space in her mind lately.
But then she heard her .
Angela’s voice cut through the chatter of officers working the scene, sharp and commanding.
"Are you kidding me right now? I said don’t touch anything unless you want to explain to the DA why our case just went to hell."
Lucy glanced up before she could stop herself. Across the scene, Angela stood with her hands on her hips, glaring at some poor rookie who looked like he’d rather be anywhere else.
"You see that?" Angela pointed at the evidence marker he had nearly kicked over. "That’s important ." She huffed. "God, I swear, they’re letting anyone wear a badge these days."
The rookie mumbled something apologetic before practically scurrying away.
Lucy swallowed.
It was— objectively —hot.
The authority, the confidence, the way Angela took charge of the scene without hesitation—it was distracting in a way Lucy really didn’t need.
No.
She forced her gaze back to Kojo, determined to focus. She wasn’t allowed to think about Angela Lopez like that.
She crouched beside her K9 partner, reaching out to scratch behind his ears as he sniffed at the base of a dumpster. "Come on, buddy," she muttered, more to herself than him. "Find something. Anything ."
Anything to keep her mind from wandering somewhere dangerous.
Kojo suddenly let out a sharp bark, his body stiffening as he pawed at a loose pile of trash near the base of the dumpster. Lucy's heart kicked up as she stepped closer, reaching for her gloves.
"You got something, buddy?" she murmured, crouching beside him.
Kojo sniffed again before sitting back, his signal that he’d found what they were looking for. Lucy quickly started shifting through the debris, carefully brushing aside old newspapers and discarded takeout containers until—
There.
A small, black case, barely visible beneath a torn plastic bag.
Lucy carefully pulled it out and flipped it open. Inside, a sleek-looking pistol rested in the foam lining. Gotcha.
"Detective Lopez!" she called out, standing up and holding the case in one gloved hand.
Angela was by her side in seconds, her dark eyes scanning the contents before letting out a low whistle.
"Well, well, look at you," she mused, a slow smirk spreading across her lips. "First week on the job, and you're already making me look good."
Lucy swallowed hard, heat creeping up her neck. "Uh—Kojo did most of the work."
At the mention of his name, Kojo wagged his tail proudly, looking up at Angela as if expecting praise.
And Angela delivered.
"You absolute genius of a dog," she cooed, immediately crouching to scratch behind his ears. "You deserve a damn medal, buddy."
Kojo let out a pleased little huff, leaning into her touch, and Lucy—Lucy was struggling badly to keep it together.
"Seriously, though," Angela continued, glancing up at Lucy, still grinning. "Nice work."
Lucy opened her mouth, tried to come up with a normal, professional response, but her brain had apparently short-circuited because all that came out was, "Uh—thanks."
Angela’s smirk deepened. "Huh." She tilted her head, eyes flickering over Lucy’s face. "You’re really bad at taking compliments, huh?"
Lucy could feel how red she was. Her ears burned. "I—I’m fine."
Angela’s chuckle was low, amused. "Yeah, sure you are, pretty girl ."
Lucy nearly dropped the evidence case.
Angela barely glanced up as an officer walked by. "Hey, take this to CSU," she ordered, handing off the evidence case without another thought.
Then, just as quickly, her full attention was back on Lucy.
"So," Angela drawled, stepping just a little closer, her voice dipping into something smoother, more inviting. "I might need a little extra help tonight. If you’re up for some detective work."
Lucy blinked, caught off guard. "I’m not a detective."
Angela smirked. "Not yet ."
Lucy shook her head, shifting on her feet. "I don’t think—"
"You know," Angela interrupted, tilting her head like she was considering something. "I can be very persuasive when I want to be."
Lucy swallowed hard. "I—uh—"
"And with that brilliant mind of yours," Angela continued, like she hadn’t just sent Lucy’s brain into overdrive, "I find it really hard to believe you wouldn’t be helpful."
Lucy’s breath hitched.
She knew Angela was flirting. Knew this was just how she was. But that didn’t stop her pulse from stuttering under the weight of Angela’s gaze.
"I—um—" Lucy hesitated, eyes flickering toward Kojo, who sat beside her, panting happily like he hadn’t just witnessed her completely malfunction.
Angela grinned. "So? You in, Officer Chen ?"
Lucy should say no. She should .
But instead, her mouth betrayed her.
"Yeah. Okay."
Angela’s smile turned downright wicked. "Atta girl."
The bullpen had mostly emptied out for the night, leaving only a few lingering officers typing up reports. The overhead lights buzzed faintly, casting a soft glow over the scattered case files and crime scene photos spread across the desk between Lucy and Angela. Kojo lay curled up at Lucy’s feet, occasionally flicking an ear but otherwise content.
Angela leaned back in her chair, twirling a pen between her fingers as she studied Lucy. “Alright, Chen, let’s see what you’ve got.”
Lucy hesitated for only a second before diving in, flipping through a stack of reports. “Okay, so the assumption was that our suspect dumped the weapon in the alley after the robbery,” she murmured, dragging her finger along the timeline on a whiteboard. “But look at these security cam timestamps.” She slid a printout toward Angela. “He was already at his car three minutes before officers responded.”
Angela’s brow lifted. “Meaning?”
Lucy glanced up, her dark eyes sharp with realization. “Meaning he ditched the gun before the robbery even happened.”
Angela’s lips curled into a smirk. “Interesting.”
Lucy nodded, flipping to another page. “And check this—his car was parked half a block away, but responding officers only searched the alley behind the store. If he was actually fleeing, why would he run past his own car instead of going straight to it?”
Angela let out a low whistle, shaking her head. “You’re saying there’s a second suspect.”
Lucy nodded. “The robbery was a distraction. Someone else was supposed to pick up the gun and use it for something bigger.”
Angela exhaled, shaking her head with something dangerously close to admiration. “Damn. And here I was, thinking I’d have to drag some insight out of you.” She smirked. “Turns out you’re actually good at this.”
Lucy ducked her head slightly, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. “It’s just pattern recognition.”
Angela’s smirk deepened. “Nah, don’t downplay it. This is the kind of thing most people miss.” She leaned in just a little, her voice dropping to something smoother, almost teasing. “And I love a woman who’s good at solving puzzles.”
Lucy’s breath caught, her cheeks warming. “I—I just like making connections.”
Angela tapped the edge of a case file, her gaze steady and knowing. “Well, lucky for me, I really like the way your mind works, Chen.”
Angela stretched her arms above her head, letting out a satisfied sigh before looking back at Lucy. “Alright, before we burn out completely, we need to eat.”
Lucy glanced at the clock, realizing how long they’d been at it. “I can order something—”
Angela scoffed, already standing. “Nope. C’mon.”
Lucy blinked, confused, but before she could protest, Angela reached for her hand and tugged her up from her seat.
The spark that shot through Lucy’s skin was immediate, undeniable. It was like touching a live wire, a current that zipped straight through her, setting every nerve on edge. She swallowed hard, her fingers instinctively curling slightly around Angela’s before she quickly pulled back, grabbing Kojo’s leash with her free hand instead.
“Where are we going?” she asked, trying to sound unaffected.
Angela threw her a smirk over her shoulder as she led them toward the exit. “Relax, Chen. I’m not kidnapping you. Just taking you to the best food near here.”
Lucy followed, Kojo trotting at her side as they stepped outside into the crisp night air. Just down the street, a line of food trucks was parked along the curb, their neon signs glowing against the darkness. The smell of sizzling meat, fresh tortillas, and deep-fried perfection filled the air.
Angela gestured toward them with a satisfied nod. “This? This is where the magic happens.”
Lucy huffed out a small laugh, shaking her head. “You really take food seriously, huh?”
Angela grinned. “Damn right I do. Now, come on. I’m about to change your life.”
Angela leaned back on the metal bench, popping a fry into her mouth as she eyed Lucy across the small table. The night air was cool, the distant hum of the city blending with the chatter around them. Lucy was quiet, focused on her food, her movements precise and careful—like she was trying to shrink into herself.
Angela, as always, was having none of that.
“So… are you straight?”
Lucy choked on her bite of taco, eyes widening as she coughed, quickly reaching for her drink. “What?” she rasped.
Angela smirked but didn’t back down. “I’ve been flirting with you all damn day, and I got nothing. Not a blush, not a smirk, not even an eye-roll. You’re giving me zero indication if I even stand a chance here.”
Lucy stared at her, stunned into silence. She glanced away, clearly hesitating before she finally answered, her voice soft. “I… I was bi.” A pause. “Or, I thought I was. A long time ago.”
Angela frowned. “Thought?”
Lucy exhaled, staring down at her food like it might provide an escape. “My mom—she said it was unnatural.” Her throat tightened, her voice dropping lower. “She made sure I knew it was wrong.”
Angela’s jaw tightened, eyes flashing with something fierce and unapologetic. “That’s bullshit. ” She shook her head, setting her food down. “Luce, there is nothing wrong with you. Nothing unnatural about loving who you love. Your mom? She was wrong. Simple as that.”
Lucy tensed at the certainty in Angela’s voice, at the way she said it like it was so obvious, so easy. But it wasn’t. It never had been.
Angela studied her for a long moment before leaning in slightly. “Alright. Let me ask you something else.”
Lucy looked up hesitantly.
Angela’s lips curled into a smirk. “Do you find me attractive?”
Lucy’s brain short-circuited. “W-what?”
Angela tilted her head, pretending to think. “Do. You. Find. Me. Attractive?”
Lucy’s mouth opened, then closed, then opened again, but no words came out. The heat crawling up her neck was answer enough.
Angela’s smirk deepened. “That’s all I needed to know.”
Lucy swallowed hard, her entire body rigid.
Angela picked up another fry, popping it into her mouth like she hadn’t just completely wrecked Lucy’s entire composure. “Here’s what’s gonna happen,” she said, voice smooth and certain. “I’m gonna keep flirting with you.”
Lucy blinked. “What?”
Angela shrugged. “Until the day you tell me to stop, I’m gonna keep pointing it out every time you look hot, or do something borderline attractive.” She leaned forward slightly, eyes locked onto Lucy’s. “And you are attractive, Chen. You drive me a little insane, if I’m being honest.”
Lucy’s breath caught, her fingers gripping the edge of the table. She knew she should say something, push back, set a boundary—but the words wouldn’t come. Because the truth was… she wanted this. Wanted Angela to keep looking at her like that, keep saying things that made her heart race, even if her mother’s voice was screaming in her head to stop.
Angela’s smirk softened just a little. “That okay with you?”
Lucy, barely able to think straight, managed a small, shaky nod.
Angela grinned. “Good.” Then, as if the moment hadn’t just shaken Lucy to her core, she went back to her food like nothing had happened at all.
Lucy, on the other hand, wasn’t sure she’d ever recover.
Angela had kept to her word.
She flirted with Lucy all the time .
Sometimes it was subtle—a lingering look, a smirk that held just a little too much knowing. Other times, it was bold—like calling Lucy “pretty girl” in the middle of a crime scene or winking at her before walking away like she hadn’t just thrown Lucy’s whole equilibrium off. But no matter what, Angela always kept it professional when she needed to. It was a balance she played with ease, and apparently, everyone around them thought it was normal because no one even batted an eye.
Which brought them to today.
Lucy was sitting with Angela, Nyla, and Celina at their usual lunch spot, a small diner a few blocks from the station. Kojo was curled up under the table, his leash wrapped around Lucy’s wrist as she absentmindedly ran her fingers through his fur.
Celina, in the middle of scrolling through her phone, suddenly looked up. “Oh! The annual gala’s coming up.”
Lucy blinked. “The department actually goes to that?”
Celina snorted. “Uh, yeah. Everyone goes. It’s a whole thing.”
Nyla shrugged, sipping her iced tea. “Depends on my mood. Some years I go, some I don’t.”
Angela, who had been remarkably quiet up until now, suddenly smirked. “Oh, I always go.” She turned to Lucy, eyes glinting. “You thinking about going, Chen ?”
Lucy hesitated, glancing at Nyla and Celina. “I don’t know… No one at North Hollywood really went, so I never did either.”
Angela leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. “Well, maybe this year you should.” Her voice was playful, teasing, but there was an unmistakable weight behind her words. “I’d love to see you all dressed up.”
Lucy stiffened, her heart immediately betraying her with an unsteady rhythm. “I—I don’t even have anything to wear,” she said quickly, looking down at her plate.
Angela hummed. “Oh, that’s not a problem. I’d be more than happy to help you pick something out.”
Lucy’s head snapped up, eyes wide. “I—”
Nyla smirked but didn’t look up from her food. “Lopez, stop messing with her.”
Angela feigned innocence. “I’m not messing with her. I’m offering a perfectly reasonable solution.”
Celina grinned. “I don’t know, Lucy. Sounds like a win to me.”
Lucy groaned, covering her face with her hands. “Oh my God.”
Angela chuckled, clearly enjoying every second of this. “Tell you what—think about it. But if you do decide to go, you have to let me be the one to take you dress shopping.”
Lucy’s hands slowly lowered, her face still burning. “You are ridiculous. ”
Angela smirked. “And yet… you haven’t said no.”
Lucy opened her mouth to argue, but no words came out. Because Angela was right. She hadn’t said no. And, if she was being honest with herself… she didn’t really want to.
Lucy could not believe she had agreed to this.
Yet here she was.
Standing in the middle of a department store, surrounded by racks of dresses, with Angela Lopez of all people picking through them like it was her life’s mission to find the perfect one.
“This one,” Angela murmured, sliding a deep emerald-green dress off the rack and holding it up against Lucy. She tilted her head, eyes dragging over her appraisingly. “Green would look stunning on your skin.”
Lucy swallowed, resisting the urge to shift under Angela’s gaze. “I don’t know…” she said hesitantly, eyeing the dress. It was beautiful, but she had never worn anything quite like it.
Angela smirked but didn’t push. Instead, she stepped a little closer, lowering her voice. “It’s different, huh?”
Lucy looked up, confused. “What is?”
Angela’s expression softened just enough for Lucy to notice. “Being out with me like this.”
Lucy blinked. Because, well… yeah. It was different. Sure, Angela was still flirting—because when wasn’t she?—but there was something more deliberate about it now. More careful. Like she was choosing her words with purpose instead of just throwing them out to fluster Lucy.
And Lucy didn’t know what to do with that.
Angela must have noticed the hesitation on her face because she grinned and playfully bumped Lucy’s arm with her elbow. “Relax, Chen. We’re just dress shopping.”
Lucy exhaled a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. “Right. Dress shopping.”
Angela held the green dress out again. “So, what do you say? Wanna try it on?”
Lucy hesitated. Then, finally, she reached out and took the dress from Angela’s hands.
Angela’s smirk widened. “Good choice.”
The dress fit perfectly .
Lucy turned slightly, smoothing her hands over the fabric as she stared at her reflection. The emerald green clung to her in a way that felt both foreign and oddly natural at the same time. She should’ve known Angela would pick something like this.
Speaking of Angela…
The detective stepped into the fitting room behind her, her presence commanding as always. “See?” Angela murmured, her voice lower now. “I knew this color would look stunning on you.”
Lucy swallowed. “It’s… nice.”
Angela rolled her eyes, stepping closer. “Nice? That’s all you’ve got?”
Before Lucy could reply, Angela moved behind her. With gentle fingers, she gathered Lucy’s hair and lifted it away from her shoulders. The touch was so soft—barely there, but enough to make Lucy’s breath hitch.
“Picture it,” Angela whispered, her voice like velvet. “Your hair up. A pair of gold earrings. Maybe some soft curls framing your face…” She tilted her head, eyes locking onto Lucy’s in the mirror. “When you walk into that gala, everyone is going to stare.”
Lucy’s breath caught in her throat.
Maybe it was the heat of Angela’s breath against her neck. Maybe it was the way her fingers brushed against her skin so delicately, sending an impossible shiver down her spine. Or maybe it was the ghost of Angela’s other hand resting lightly at Lucy’s waist, grounding her, making her feel something she hadn’t let herself feel in so long.
She didn’t know.
All she knew was that suddenly, she was turning.
And before she could stop herself—before she could think—she was kissing Angela. Harder than she ever imagined she would.
Angela made a sound of surprise against her lips but didn’t hesitate. Her hands found Lucy’s waist, pulling her in as she kissed her back, just as eager, just as wanting. The intensity of it caught Lucy off guard, stole the air from her lungs.
And for the first time in years, she didn’t think.
She just felt happy .
And then she felt panic.
Lucy pulled away, her breath unsteady, heart pounding so loudly she swore Angela could hear it. She blinked, processing what just happened—what she just did.
Angela, however, looked anything but stunned. A slow, wicked smirk tugged at her lips as she studied Lucy like she was the most interesting thing in the world. “Well, well,” she drawled, voice dripping with amusement. “That was unexpected .”
Lucy swallowed hard. “I—I shouldn’t have—”
“Nope.” Angela shook her head immediately. “We’re not doing that.”
Lucy blinked at her. “Doing what?”
“The whole I shouldn’t have kissed you thing,” Angela said, stepping closer again. “Because I know you wanted to.” Her voice dipped lower, playful yet firm. “And let me tell you, pretty girl , I really enjoyed it.”
Lucy’s entire body felt like it was on fire. She opened her mouth to say something—anything—but nothing came out.
Angela grinned. “No comeback? I must’ve really rattled you.”
That did it. That was the moment Lucy’s panic fully settled in.
“I—I should change,” she blurted, stepping back so quickly she nearly tripped over the hem of the dress. “Yeah, I should, um… I should do that.”
Angela chuckled but didn’t stop her as she all but fled back into the fitting room.
She barely had time to breathe before the universe gave her an out—Angela’s phone rang.
Lucy listened, half-dressed, as Angela answered, her tone shifting into something more professional. A call from the station. Something urgent.
By the time Lucy stepped back out in her regular clothes, Angela was already pulling her leather jacket back on, her mind clearly shifting into work mode.
“I have to go,” Angela said, tossing Lucy a quick glance. “But you should get the dress.”
Lucy hesitated. “I—”
Angela smirked, her eyes flickering with something unreadable. “Trust me. You’ll regret it if you don’t.”
And with that, she was gone, leaving Lucy standing there with a racing heart and a million thoughts running through her head.
Angela had officially had it .
For days now, Lucy had been avoiding her—dodging her glances, finding excuses to be anywhere she wasn’t , and cutting conversations short like they were running out of oxygen. And Angela Lopez was not the kind of woman to let things slide.
So when she caught Lucy trying to make a quick exit from the bullpen that afternoon, she didn’t hesitate.
“Chen.”
Lucy kept walking.
Angela narrowed her eyes. Oh, we’re playing that game?
Fine.
With quick strides, she reached out, grabbed Lucy’s wrist, and all but dragged her into the nearest storage closet before she could slip away again.
“Detective—!” Lucy gasped, stumbling inside as the door shut behind them.
Angela folded her arms, her stance wide, unmoving. “We’re doing this.”
Lucy swallowed, shifting awkwardly. “Doing what ?”
Angela let out a sharp, humorless laugh. “Oh, come on , Lucy. You’ve been avoiding me like I’ve got the plague. You’re barely looking at me, you’re acting like that kiss didn’t happen —”
Lucy flinched at the mention of it, her gaze darting to the floor.
Angela sighed, running a hand through her hair. That reaction told her everything.
“Lucy,” she said, voice softer now. “Just talk to me. You kissed me. It happened. And I know you’re freaking out, but shutting me out isn’t the answer.”
Lucy’s fingers curled into her palms. “I—I don’t know what to say.”
Angela took a step closer. “Start with the truth.”
Lucy hesitated, chest rising and falling unevenly. “I don’t regret it,” she admitted in a near whisper.
Angela’s expression didn’t change, but her shoulders relaxed slightly. “Okay,” she said, nodding. “Then why are you running?”
Lucy clenched her jaw, the conflict in her eyes clear as day.
Angela waited, patient. She could push—but she wanted Lucy to choose to tell her.
Finally, after a long silence, Lucy exhaled shakily.
“I used to think I was bi,” she said quietly. “A long time ago.” She paused, pressing her lips together before continuing. “But my parents… they told me it was unnatural. That it was just a phase —one I needed to grow out of.” She let out a humorless chuckle. “So, I did. I stopped thinking about it. Pushed it down . And for years, I told myself they were right.”
Angela’s jaw tightened, something sharp flaring in her chest. “They weren’t.”
Lucy finally met her gaze, searching. “But what if they were ?”
Angela took another step forward, close enough now that she could see every flicker of uncertainty in Lucy’s expression.
“They weren’t,” she repeated firmly. “There is nothing unnatural about you, Lucy. You don’t grow out of who you are.”
Lucy’s breath hitched like the words settled into some hidden part of her that had been waiting to hear them.
Angela softened, tilting her head. “So, tell me. Is it really your mom’s voices in your head? Or is it you who doesn’t want this?”
Lucy felt the heat rising to her face.
Angela caught it. And she knew she was right.
A slow smirk spread across her lips.
“Let me make this easier for you,” she mused. “Do you find me attractive?”
Lucy inhaled sharply. “W-what?”
Angela hummed. “You heard me.”
Lucy’s brain completely malfunctioned. “I—um—”
The blush crawling up her neck was all the answer Angela needed.
Grinning, she took one last step closer, dropping her voice just enough to send a shiver down Lucy’s spine. “That’s what I thought.”
Lucy sputtered, words failing her entirely.
Angela chuckled. “So here’s what’s going to happen. I’m gonna keep flirting with you.” She shrugged. “If you ever really want me to stop, just say the word. But until then?” She smirked, her eyes dancing with mischief. “If you look hot, or do something borderline attractive, I will point it out. Got it?”
Lucy could only nod, something warm and alive crackling in her chest despite the fear still clinging to her.
Angela’s smirk softened, her voice dipping into something quieter. “Good.”
Then, stepping back, she exhaled dramatically. “Now, since we’re done with this little crisis, how about dinner?”
Lucy blinked. “Dinner?”
Angela grinned. “Yeah. You, me, food that isn’t from a vending machine or truck.” She paused, then added, teasing, “Unless you’re scared ?”
Lucy narrowed her eyes. “I’m not scared.”
Angela’s grin widened. “Then say yes.”
Lucy’s pulse was still racing. But against all odds, she found herself nodding.
“…Okay.”
Angela beamed. “Great. I’ll pick you up at eight.”
And just like that, she slipped out of the storage closet, leaving Lucy standing there—breathless, heart pounding, and knowing, without a doubt, that this was the start of something dangerous .
Lucy stood in front of the mirror, taking in her reflection. The deep green dress hugged her in all the right places, elegant and understated. Her hair was swept over one shoulder in soft curls, and a touch of makeup accentuated her natural glow. Nerves fluttered in her stomach as she adjusted the dress one last time.
There was a knock at her door. Her heart skipped. She grabbed her purse and went to answer, taking a deep breath before opening it.
Angela stood on the doorstep, wearing a sleek black dress that hugged her toned frame with effortless grace. It was simple but stunning, with a slit that showed just enough to be intriguing. Her dark hair was loose around her shoulders, and her smile was enough to light up the entire street.
For a moment, they just stared at each other.
“You’re beautiful,” Angela said softly. Her voice held none of her usual teasing or flirtation—just a quiet, sincere admiration.
Lucy’s heart stuttered. “Thank you,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Angela took a step closer, eyes warm and steady. “I’ve always thought so.”
Lucy’s breath hitched. She felt the blush creeping up her neck but didn’t look away.
“You look…” Lucy searched for the right word and landed on one that felt true. “Stunning.”
Angela’s lips curved into a soft smile. “Coming from you? I’ll take that as high praise.”
They shared a moment of easy silence, the kind that seemed to stretch and fold time in on itself. Then Angela held out her arm.
“Shall we?”
Lucy gave a small laugh, looping her arm through Angela’s. “Lead the way.”
As they walked to the car, Angela opened the passenger door for her with a playful bow. Lucy slipped inside, her nerves easing with each passing second.
The drive to the restaurant was filled with easy conversation. Angela told a story about one of the rookies getting their cruiser stuck in a ditch, and Lucy couldn’t stop laughing at the mental image. Every so often, their eyes would meet, and the quiet moments in between the jokes felt just as important as the words themselves.
When they pulled up to the restaurant, Angela parked and turned to Lucy with a soft, lingering smile. “Are you ready?”
Lucy tilted her head. “It’s just dinner.”
Angela’s gaze softened even further. “It’s more than that to me.”
Lucy felt her heart race again, but this time, it wasn’t from nerves. It was something else.
Angela stepped out of the car and circled around to open Lucy’s door, offering her hand as Lucy stepped out. Their fingers brushed for just a moment—a brief, electric spark that neither of them pulled away from.
They were seated at a cozy corner table in a softly lit restaurant, the flickering candlelight casting warm shadows across their faces. The ambiance was perfect—low chatter, the soft hum of jazz playing in the background, and the faint scent of fresh flowers in the air.
Lucy fidgeted slightly, smoothing the hem of her deep green dress under the table. Angela noticed but said nothing, letting her gaze linger on Lucy with a soft, appreciative smile.
“Have you been here before?” Lucy asked, finally breaking the silence. Her voice was light, but there was a nervous edge to it.
Angela leaned back in her chair, studying her. “A couple of times. It’s one of my favorite spots.”
Lucy’s eyes flicked to the menu. “It’s nice. Fancy.”
Angela chuckled softly. “You deserve fancy.”
That earned her a shy smile from Lucy, whose cheeks tinged pink. “I’m not sure I’m used to it.”
“Well,” Angela leaned forward slightly, “get used to it.”
The intensity in her gaze made Lucy’s heart skip a beat. She glanced down at her hands, suddenly self-conscious.
Angela’s tone softened. “Hey, you don’t have to be nervous.”
“I’m not nervous,” Lucy lied. She caught Angela’s raised brow and gave in with a sheepish laugh. “Okay, maybe a little.”
Angela reached across the table, palm up. “Why?”
Lucy hesitated, then placed her hand in Angela’s. “Because it’s you.”
The vulnerability in her voice hit Angela like a wave. She squeezed Lucy’s hand gently. “Lucy, I’m not trying to scare you off. If anything, I’m trying to do the opposite.”
“I know,” Lucy said quietly. “It’s just…new.”
Angela nodded slowly. “New can be good. And it doesn’t have to be perfect. Just honest.”
Their food arrived before Lucy could respond, and they both pulled their hands back, the moment suspended but not forgotten.
The conversation drifted to lighter topics as they ate—work stories, funny calls they’d responded to, and little moments that had stuck with them over the years. Lucy found herself relaxing, laughing more easily with each passing minute. Angela’s wit and charm were effortless, but there was something deeper in her tonight—an openness that made Lucy feel seen in a way she hadn’t before.
As they finished their meal, Angela leaned in again. “I have a question.”
Lucy raised a brow. “Is it going to make me blush?”
“Probably,” Angela admitted with a grin. “Do you regret coming out with me tonight?”
Lucy’s answer was immediate. “No.”
Angela’s smile softened. “Good.”
They lingered a little longer, finishing the last of their drinks, neither in a hurry to leave. When the check came, Angela reached for it, but Lucy beat her to it.
“I’m paying.”
Angela narrowed her eyes. “I’m supposed to treat you.”
“I’ll let you next time,” Lucy said without thinking.
Angela leaned back, a satisfied smirk playing on her lips. “Next time, huh?”
Lucy froze for a second, realizing what she’d said. But instead of taking it back, she met Angela’s gaze and nodded. “Yeah. Next time.”
The warmth in Angela’s eyes was undeniable. “I’ll hold you to that.”
They walked out together into the cool night air. The city was quiet, the sky a deep indigo scattered with stars. They stopped by the curb, standing close enough that Lucy could feel the warmth radiating from Angela’s body.
“You’re even more beautiful when you’re not nervous,” Angela said softly.
Lucy rolled her eyes, but the smile on her face was genuine. “Flatterer.”
Angela took a step closer, their faces just inches apart. “Is it working?”
Lucy’s breath hitched, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow. Her heart pounded in her chest, every nerve tingling with anticipation. Without overthinking it, she leaned in.
Their lips met in a soft, tentative kiss. But the moment their mouths touched, something shifted. The hesitation melted away, replaced by something deeper—warm and electric. Lucy’s fingers brushed against Angela’s arm as she leaned into the kiss, letting it consume her.
When they finally pulled apart, Lucy was breathless. Her eyes fluttered open, meeting Angela’s steady gaze. There was no teasing smirk this time, just a tenderness that made Lucy’s heart ache.
“Goodnight, Lucy,” Angela whispered.
Lucy swallowed hard, still catching her breath. “Goodnight, Angela.”
They lingered for another beat, neither wanting to walk away. But eventually, Angela turned and headed toward her car. Lucy watched her go, feeling like the ground beneath her had shifted in the best possible way. And as she stood there under the stars, she knew one thing for sure—this was only the beginning.
The night of the gala had finally arrived, and Angela found herself more nervous than she expected. She smoothed the fabric of her sleek navy gown as she stood at Lucy’s door. She raised her hand to knock, but the door opened before she could.
And there Lucy stood.
Angela froze, completely stunned. Lucy was breathtaking in an emerald-green gown that hugged her figure perfectly before flowing gracefully down to the floor. The deep V-neckline was daring without being too much, and the soft shimmer of the fabric caught the light with every movement. Her hair was swept up, framing her face in loose tendrils, and the earrings she wore—a delicate pair Angela had noticed before—glinted softly.
But it wasn’t just the dress or the hair. It was Lucy’s eyes, warm and bright, with just a hint of nervous excitement.
Angela’s throat went dry. She tried to speak, but for the first time in a long time, words failed her.
Lucy shifted slightly, breaking the silence. “Angela?”
Angela blinked, finally snapping out of it. “Lucy, you…you’re stunning.”
Lucy flushed, looking down at the hem of her dress. “You’re just saying that.”
Angela stepped closer, lifting Lucy’s chin with gentle fingers so their eyes met. “I never just say anything. You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”
Lucy’s breath hitched, and for a moment, she looked like she wanted to say something. But instead, she just nodded, her smile soft and a little shy.
Angela held out her hand. “Shall we?”
Lucy took it without hesitation, her fingers intertwining with Angela’s as they walked out to the car. The air between them was charged with unspoken words and promises neither was quite ready to say out loud. Yet.
Angela helped Lucy into the passenger seat before walking around to the driver’s side. As they pulled away from the curb, the city lights stretched before them, the night alive with possibility. And although neither said it, both knew that tonight was going to be unforgettable.
The gala was in full swing by the time Angela and Lucy arrived. The large ballroom shimmered with golden lights, and soft music floated through the air. The atmosphere was elegant, but there was a sense of warmth too—something that made Lucy feel a little more at ease, even though her heart was racing for entirely different reasons.
Angela had hardly taken her eyes off Lucy since they’d arrived, though she tried to give her space to mingle. Lucy, for her part, had been talking to Celina by the dessert table, laughing over an inside joke from one of their patrol shifts. Angela, however, wasn’t left alone for long.
“Lopez.” Nyla’s voice carried a teasing lilt as she appeared at Angela’s side, a glass of champagne in hand.
Angela turned with a raised brow. “Harper.”
Nyla smirked. “You’re glowing.”
Angela chuckled. “Am I?”
“Oh, yeah,” Nyla continued. “I mean, you practically skipped in here with Lucy. And now you’re standing over here looking at her like she hung the moon.”
Angela didn’t even try to deny it. “Maybe she did.”
Nyla took a sip of her drink, eyeing Angela over the rim. “So. You got your girl.”
“I did,” Angela said, her smile softening. “And I’m not letting her go.”
“Well, look at you. All happy and in love.” Nyla tilted her head thoughtfully. “Honestly? It suits you.”
Angela rolled her eyes but didn’t disagree. “Don’t get too sentimental on me, Harper.”
Nyla just laughed, giving Angela a light nudge before walking off back to her husband.
Angela let her gaze wander back to Lucy, who had just finished her conversation with Celina. Lucy turned, catching Angela’s eyes across the room, and even from a distance, Angela could see the blush that crept up her cheeks.
Angela made her way over, weaving through the clusters of people until she stood in front of Lucy. Without a word, she held out her hand.
“Dance with me?” Angela’s voice was gentle, her eyes full of promise.
Lucy hesitated for just a moment, not because she didn’t want to—because she did, more than anything. But she was still getting used to this, to being wanted so openly.
Still, she placed her hand in Angela’s without another word.
Angela led her to the center of the dance floor, the music shifting to something slow and sweet. Lucy’s heart thudded in her chest as Angela slipped an arm around her waist, pulling her in close. Their hands clasped together, and Lucy felt the world narrow to just the two of them.
Angela’s gaze held Lucy’s as they swayed together, the rest of the gala fading into the background. “You really are the most beautiful woman here.”
Lucy flushed, her eyes dropping for a moment before looking back up. “You’re not so bad yourself.”
Angela’s grin widened. “Careful, you’re starting to sound like me.”
They moved in perfect sync, the tension from earlier melting away with each step. Angela twirled Lucy gently, pulling her back in with a softness that took Lucy’s breath away.
And in that moment, surrounded by light and music, Lucy felt something she hadn’t in a long time—freedom. Freedom to want this, to be wanted, and to let herself be happy.
Angela’s hand tightened ever so slightly on Lucy’s waist. “I’m really glad you’re here with me.”
Lucy didn’t even try to hide her smile. “Me too.”
The music slowed even further, turning into a soft, romantic ballad. The lights in the ballroom dimmed, casting a warm golden glow over the dance floor. Angela looked at Lucy, her eyes full of affection and something deeper—something that made Lucy’s breath hitch.
With a playful smile, Angela spun Lucy out, their hands still connected. Lucy let out a surprised laugh, her green dress swirling around her. When Angela tugged gently, Lucy twirled back into her arms, landing against Angela’s chest.
They paused there for a heartbeat—so close, their breaths mingling. Angela’s hand was firm but gentle on Lucy’s waist, and her other hand cradled Lucy’s fingers like they were something precious. The world seemed to narrow again, the noise of the gala fading until there was only the two of them.
Angela’s gaze dropped to Lucy’s lips. “I’ve been waiting to do this.”
Lucy didn’t get a chance to respond—not that she would have. Angela leaned in, and their lips met in a kiss that was everything. Tender but urgent, soft but passionate. It was the kind of kiss that made time stop, the kind that left no room for doubt.
Lucy melted into it, her arms slipping around Angela’s shoulders. She felt the strength in Angela’s embrace, the way her hand pressed against the small of her back to hold her closer. The rest of the world—the guests, the music, the lights—faded into insignificance.
When they finally broke apart, Lucy’s chest rose and fell as she tried to catch her breath. Her eyes fluttered open to find Angela watching her with that familiar teasing smile.
“You’re blushing,” Angela murmured.
“You kissed me,” Lucy shot back, though her voice was breathless and soft.
“And I’ll do it again.” Angela’s grin widened before her expression turned more serious. “I don’t care who’s watching, Lucy. You’re mine.”
Lucy’s heart thudded at those words. She glanced around briefly, noting the curious and amused glances of their colleagues. Nyla gave an approving nod. Celina beamed like she’d just witnessed a romantic movie scene. No one else batted an eye.
Lucy turned back to Angela, her smile blooming into something radiant. “I could get used to this.”
“Good,” Angela whispered. She laced their fingers together again and pulled Lucy back into the dance. And as they swayed to the music, Lucy knew—this was exactly where she wanted to be.