The first time you met Derek was when he couldn’t remember your name and decided shouting out ‘baby girl’ across the bullpen was the greatest idea known to man. It wasn’t because you had ended up smacking his arm and chastising him about ‘sexual harassment.’ That interaction, though, lit a fire beneath you two. His easy laughter and effortless charm made the air crackle, yet unease bubbled beneath your surface. Previous scars whispered warnings, reminding you of those who betrayed your trust. As your relationship blossomed, the specter of heartache loomed large; his flirtation felt both intoxicating and terrifying.

During a quiet moment shared between case files and coffee, Derek caught your gaze, his expression softening. “You know I’m here for you, right?" he asked, brushing a stray hair from your face.