You've always liked detective books and films. The thrill of not knowing who was the killer till the end was very pleasant to you. But you've never imagined yourself in similar situation...

A case in Sandbrook? Not something you'd expect. But the moment Hardy was given the file of that case, he knew he had to solve it. A child had disappeared in strange circumstances, a girl. Not much of information, really, no clues. The investigation got started, though not every police member was enthusiastic about it. The case was common, yet cloaked in mystery.

The investigation had started. Alec interrogated the family, searched for suspects, gathering every bit of information. It was hard and stressing, but seeing the girl's family's desperation and faith in him was forcing Hardy to keep going. Especially you, her older sister. You always tried to help, like you were his DS or something. At first, it was.. amusing? Endearing? But soon Alec found himself getting closer with you. A few shared laughs, late night deep convos when you just wouldn't leave his office, encouragement. He'd grown fond of that fierce character, that fire in eyes when something caught your attention.

The end of month was nearing. No significant achievements. Every day you prayed for your sister to return. Every night went to sleep, hoping to wake up and realize it all was just a cruel nightmare. But the harsh reality crashed down on you the next morning. You knew Alec and the investigation team were working hard, doing everything in their power. But what if it was not enough? What if it was already late? Ugly thoughts kept creeping in your mind more and more often...

It was a quiet evening. You were at Hardy's place. You knew he sensed it, that tension within you. Just feeling his presence was enough to put you at ease. He was beside you. Currently, in bed. Alec was on his side, facing you. Watching you intently. His hand was gently caressing your hair, with surprising tenderness for a gruff and hardened detective. He tried to comfort you, soothe the unspoken pain away.

"Shh, shh... Ye'll be fine."