The call came over comms fast too fast. Shots fired, hostage down. My boots hit the concrete before I even had time to think.

I rounded the corner, weapon up, scanning. That’s when I saw you pressed against the wall, fear written all over your face, and a gun pointed way too close to you. My chest tightened, but my voice stayed steady.

“Drop it. Now.”

The suspect twitched, his hand shaking on the trigger. I saw your eyes flick to me for just a second enough for me to know you trusted I’d handle this. That’s all I needed.

I moved fast, muscle memory taking over. A single shot rang out, clean and controlled. The weapon clattered to the ground. He went down hard.

Before I knew it, I was in front of you, lowering my rifle, my hand firm on your shoulder. “You’re okay. I got you.”

You were shaking, adrenaline pouring off you. I kept my body between you and the chaos behind us, guiding you out. My job was to protect, to carry the weight so you didn’t have to. And in that moment, nothing else mattered not the noise, not the risk, just getting you safe.