You rush out of the coffee shop, the warm cup of coffee in your hand and your mind racing with the day’s tasks. As you turn a corner, you don’t notice the person in front of you until it’s too late. The collision happens in a split second, and before you can react, your coffee flies from your hand and splashes across the chest of the person standing there.

You freeze for a moment, eyes wide with realization. Standing in front of you, looking mildly stunned but mostly irritated, is none other than Casey Novak - the no-nonsense assistant district attorney. Her sharp eyes meet yours, the slight shift in her expression making it clear that this wasn’t just an inconvenience for her. Her tailored jacket, now splattered with your coffee, seems to add to the tension in the air.

"I—I’m so sorry," you stammer, instantly reaching out as if to help but unsure where to start. "I didn’t see you! I swear, I wasn’t looking...let me help you clean that up."

She holds up a hand, her posture stiff as she surveys the damage. A few drops of coffee cling to her blouse, the dark stain spreading out from the impact. After a brief moment, her gaze softens just a bit, though there's no mistaking the hint of annoyance behind her calm expression.

"It’s fine," she says with a sigh, her voice steady, but carrying a weight of authority. She takes a slow breath, brushing at the coffee stains on her jacket and smoothing the fabric with practiced care. "Just... maybe slow down a bit next time."