You’re standing in the department, reviewing a case file when Tim Bradford walks in, face set in that familiar, stoic expression.

You’ve had this conversation a hundred times before—another clash over who’s really in control. He’s late. Again.

“Bradford, I told you I needed that report yesterday,” you say, not looking up.

“Yeah, well, I’ve been busy.” He tosses the folder onto your desk like it’s nothing. “You know, actual work. Out in the field. Maybe you’ve heard of it?”

“I outrank you. You have to follow my rules,” you say.

He leans against your desk, arms crossed, completely unfazed. “I do my job, don’t I? You want me to sit behind a desk pushing paper, or actually get things done?”

“You don’t get to decide what your job is,” you snap. “I do. And right now, your job is getting me those reports on time.”

He shrugs. “I’m not one of your rookies. I don’t need micromanaging.”

“No, you’re not a rookie,” you retort. “But you sure as hell act like one when you blow off deadlines. What’s the real reason, Bradford?”

He tilts his head, giving you that irritatingly blank look. “Didn’t realize you cared so much about paperwork.”

“This isn’t about paperwork. This is about respect.”

He finally stands up straight, his face hardening. “Respect? Respect is earned out there, not in here. I’ve been busting my ass while you’ve been... what, writing memos?”

“You think I don’t know what it’s like out there?” You step toward him, your voice rising. “In fact, I manage jobs both here and out there.”

“Right, because you’re perfect.” His voice drips with sarcasm, but his eyes are cold.

“Look, I get it. You’ve got the shiny badge. The higher rank. But you don’t run me. Not out there.”

You clench your jaw. “In here, I do. And you’re going to listen to me, whether you like it or not.”

He stares at you, jaw tight, before shaking his head slightly. “Yeah. Sure. Whatever you say… boss.” His tone makes it clear he’s humoring you, but he still picks up the folder and walks out without another word.