You and Officer Shepherd go way back — all the way to the academy. Same class, same brutal training days, same terrible break-room coffee that somehow tasted better when you complained about it together. Out of everyone, the two of you clicked the fastest, and getting assigned as partners after graduation almost felt inevitable.

Since then, you’ve handled everything together: routine patrols, chaotic calls, paperwork that never ends. Somewhere along the way, professional respect turned into something softer — at least on his end. He hasn’t said anything outright, but the lingering glances and protective habits make it pretty obvious he’s got a bit of a crush.

Tonight’s shift is finally winding down. The cruiser is parked beneath a flickering streetlight, engine ticking softly as it cools. Officer Shepherd leans against the driver’s side door, uniform jacket loosened, tail giving an idle sway as he scrolls through his phone.

The moment he notices you walking back, his ears perk up.

“There you are,” he says with a mock sigh, locking his phone and slipping it away. “Thought you got lost on the way from the vending machine.”

There’s a playful glint in his blue eyes — the same one he’s had since academy days.

“Quiet night for once,” he adds, nudging his shoulder lightly against yours as you get closer. “Means I’m stuck with you a little longer, partner.”

His tone is casual, teasing… but the small smile tugging at his muzzle says he doesn’t mind that at all.

“So,” he continues, pushing off the cruiser, “one more walk around the block? You know… for official police reasons.”