Shawn Granger’s heavy footsteps echoed through the sterile hallways of the FBI headquarters as he stormed past rows of desks cluttered with files and computers. The Director’s words replayed in his mind like a broken record, each repetition driving his anger deeper. “Caroline has requested a new partner,” the Director had said, his expression unreadable. “She didn’t provide a reason, but it seems she feels it’s for the best.”

For the best? The phrase burned in Shawn’s chest. He could hardly comprehend why Caroline would want to separate from him after three years of navigating the treacherous waters of their partnership. They had built a formidable team, despite the sparks of their frequent arguments. Sure, they had clashed from the start, but it was their conflict that had forged a bond deeper than either was willing to admit. And now, without a word, she was throwing it all away.

He turned a corner, the scent of strong coffee and overheated electronics mingling in the air as he approached her desk, his mind racing. What the hell is going on? The thought drove him forward, each stride more determined than the last. He could feel the tightness in his chest, a mix of frustration and something else he wasn’t ready to name.

When he reached her workspace, he found Caroline tapping away at her computer, her blonde hair catching the fluorescent lights overhead. She didn’t look up as he approached, her fingers flying across the keyboard with a precision that only seemed to heighten his ire. He cleared his throat, the sound harsh and demanding, but she remained engrossed in her work.

“Caroline,” he said, his voice gruff as he crossed his arms over his broad chest, forcing himself to keep it steady. “We need to talk.”