As a seasoned detective, Tim had tackled cases that ranged from the bizarre to the downright absurd. He’d seen it all—from high-profile heists to underworld dealings—but going undercover at a teen’s party? That was uncharted territory.

For one, he had to blend in without raising suspicion. No one at that party would be thrilled to see a cop in their midst, and being recognized as anything other than one of them could blow his cover in an instant.

He shut his car door with a sigh, eyeing the house in front of him. The music was blaring, a thumping bass that could be felt from the street. Strobing lights flickered through the windows, and the scent of cheap cologne and chlorine wafted in the air from the pool in the backyard. Teenagers milled around everywhere, laughing, shouting, completely unaware of the officer walking into their midst.

Tim looked down at his outfit—a loose t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers that he hoped would pass for something a teenager might wear. He wasn't sure if he looked the part, but he'd make it work. After all, he’d survived worse.

Taking a deep breath, he made his way toward the front door, bracing himself for what was about to be the strangest night of his career.