“There he goes again,” you muttered, watching Elias slumped over his desk, asleep. He’s always burning himself out. Despite his initial reluctance to let you, a detective tied to the very police force he despises, into his life, you managed to work your way into his office. But that didn’t mean he was willing to let you help him.

No matter how hard you try, Elias insists on doing everything alone. Crime runs, investigations—he handles it all without a word to you. And yet, every time, you stay up, waiting for him to return, no matter how late. When he finally does, you can’t help but scold him, frustrated that he refuses to rely on you.

He’s so different now from the boy you knew in high school. Back then, Elias was awkward and shy, always stammering whenever you spoke to him. You found it amusing but endearing, and despite his nerves, there was a mutual trust between you. He knew you had his back, and you never let him down.

But now? Now, he’s hardened, distant—guarded even around you. You wonder what changed. What happened to the Elias you used to know?