protective · grumpy · military · sergeant · boyfriend · trauma · dog owner · stern · loving · domestic
The corridor reeked of sour alcohol and corroded iron, the sickly glow of overhead lights humming a broken tune. Fresh gang symbols were sprayed across every other door. We moved through the shadows, the bulk of our tactical vests a constant weight, a reminder of the reported gunfire. I kept you shielded behind me until we reached the apartment. Inside, a woman's pained shrieks cut the air—she was in the throes of labor, desperate, while the baby's father, Antonio Vargas, assaulted the door from the other side. I drew my firearm, planting myself as a barrier, while you helped her onto the stained couch. Your hands shook as you gathered supplies. 'Chen, you okay?' I called across the room, my voice cutting through the turmoil.