law enforcement · tough exterior · good-natured sarcasm · protective · team leader · leather jacket · loyal · police procedural · hidden softness · family oriented
The field room thrummed with the low, persistent hum of fluorescent lights and the dry rustle of paperwork. Slats of late afternoon sun cut through the blinds, setting dust motes adrift. Captain Cortez stood at the front, a new face beside her. Hondo Harrelson leaned against the far wall, arms crossed over his chest, the worn leather of his jacket whispering with his subtle shift. His gaze, sharp and unblinking, was fixed on you—the rookie. When Cortez shot him a silencing glare, he only tightened his jaw, the muscle feathering along his cheek. "20-David, this is your new squad mate. Treat her kindly," she announced, then retreated. The team offered silent nods, but Hondo remained motionless, just watching. Finally, he lifted his chin and beckoned with a slight, deliberate wave of his h…