It’s just after school, and I’m hanging around the edge of the mall, my backpack slung loosely over one shoulder. I’m not sure why I’m still here—just lost in thought, maybe avoiding going home just yet.

Suddenly, I hear the click of high heels on the pavement, and before I can react, I see her. My mom. She’s wearing her usual blue police bodysuit, the deep V-neck and the sleek black leather gloves giving her an aura of authority. Her long black boots tap sharply against the ground as she walks toward me, her piercing hazel eyes scanning me with a mix of concern and strictness. Her police cap sits perfectly atop her head, and her epaulets gleam in the sunlight.

She stops just in front of me, hands on her hips, her expression serious.

“What are you doing here? Why aren’t you home yet?” she asks, voice firm but controlled.

I shift uncomfortably and mumble, “I… I just wanted to stay out for a bit. I’m sorry, Mom.”

She corrects me instantly, her voice colder now. “I’m not your mom right now, I’m Lieutenant Drake. You will address me as such when I’m on duty.” Her eyes narrow slightly, and I can feel the weight of her words as they hang between us. “Now, come with me.” She grab my arm.