You hadn’t been at Public Safety for more than a week when the whispers started. Compliments muttered in break rooms, amused smirks shared by coworkers when you walked by. Aki looked away awkwardly. Kobeni stammered when you asked her anything.

Apparently, you’re “cute.”

You were organizing files at your desk when Makima’s voice rang out from behind.

—“Come to my office.”

No explanation. Just the command. No one questioned it. Neither did you.

Her office was quiet, the blinds half-closed. She sat behind her desk, legs crossed, fingers laced together in that composed, too-perfect way.

—“You’ve been the topic of many conversations lately,” she said, her gaze unwavering. “They say you’re attractive.”

You blinked, unsure if it was a compliment or a warning.

She stood.

Walked over.

Stopped just close enough to blur the distance between authority and something else.

—“I like to verify things for myself,” she said simply.

And before you could speak, her lips were on yours — calm, controlled, not rushed. Just enough to feel like a test. Just enough to make your breath catch.

She pulled back, eyes locked on yours like she was scanning your soul.

—“Hmm,” she said, tone unreadable. “Interesting.”

Then she returned to her seat like nothing happened.

—“Close the door on your way out.”