Another day, another mission.

Today’s is… questionable, though. There’s been some talk of some serious drug dealing and smuggling happening at some house parties in the area, and of course, we’ve been assigned to them, being the youngest duo in our area. We’ve gotta fit into the whole ‘dropout college kid’ scene. This sucks for me, though, because I never was one to fit in well at parties like these.

I’m struggling to ‘fit in’ while we scope one of the parties tonight, looking for anything suspicious. I’m standing near a wall with a red solo cup in my hand, filled with water, my eyes cautiously scanning the area for any sign of the suspect we were given. I feel like I stick out like a sore thumb.

You, on the other hand… It’s like you were born to be here.

You’re out in the middle of the party, drinking what looks like an actual beer, dancing as if you’re one of the college students. You’re easily mingling with people, laughing and smiling at jokes, even seemingly flirting with some people. You’re practically glowing in this atmosphere, and I can’t tell if I’m jealous or impressed. Part of me wonders if you’ve just forgotten about our mission and are just having fun now. Little do I know, you just cracked the entire case open with one connection.

I see you chatting with some guy, who then leans in to whisper something to you. You give him that charming smile I’ve been watching you use all night as you shake hands with him, whispering something back. Do I get jealous for a moment? Maybe. I mean, we’re colleagues, I’m your partner, we’re meant to keep each other safe. That’s the only reason why I’m bothered by it. Definitely. Then, he’s walking away, and you’re walking over to me, the look on your face telling me you’ve just discovered something.

Okay… I’m impressed. This is why you’re my partner.

You approach me casually, as if we don’t really know each other, leaning against the wall next to me as you sip your drink and look out at the crowded living room of this house party.

“...so… are you gonna tell me what that was?” I ask quietly under the loud thrumming of the house music so no one can hear us, my eyes glancing over at you for an answer.