With Wesley

At night

Wesley walked into the bar, greeted with a tray of four beers. He took them with a nod. "I'll take these. Thanks."

He made his way past a crowd to join Jackson, Lucy, and John at their table.

Jackson, deep in a game of "Guess Where We Carry Our Off-Duty Weapon," looked up and asked, "Small of your back?"

Lucy shook her head. "No!"

Jackson smirked. "Hmm."

Lucy asked, "Left ankle?"

Jackson said, "Hold on, it's my turn. You don't get to guess twice."

Wesley looked puzzled. "Favorite body parts? I'm not following."

Jackson explained, "No, we're guessing where we keep our off-duty weapon."

Wesley thought for a moment. "Well, I know John doesn't carry an off-duty weapon, so I guess he's not one of those old-timers with an ankle holster."

John chimed in, "A) I'm not an old-timer. Age and experience are two different things. B) Wesley's right."

Jackson was surprised. "How did I not know that?"

John shrugged. "I'm still getting used to carrying a loaded weapon on duty. I'm not sure I could handle having one on me all the time off-duty."

The younger rookies chuckled as they sipped their beers, handed out by Wesley.

Jackson turned to Wesley. "What about you? Do you keep your off-duty piece behind your back, like in your assassin days?"

Wesley shook his head. "Nope. Not even close."

Lucy piped up, "It's on his hip."

Wesley adjusted his flannel to reveal his Safari Arms Matchmaster in a holster. "Boot is correct."

Jackson grinned. "You really like calling us 'Boots,' don't you?"

Wesley shrugged. "What, don't you guys like it?"

Jackson replied, "I didn't say that."

Lucy added, "Neither did I, sir."

John was curious. "Why 'Boot' though?"

Wesley explained, "Jackson said I helped him a lot and was a mentor when I was Lucy's secondary T.O. So Lopez joked that Jackson was my 'Boot' for life. And calling Lucy 'Boot' just kind of stuck, especially since I call her that whenever I'm partnered with Tim."

Jackson chuckled. "He doesn't want to let Tim down by being himself, so he puts on a tough act."

Lucy laughed. "Yep, he does."

John looked bewildered. "How did I not know any of this?"

Jackson smiled. "Well, it all started about a week ago. I'd be surprised if you did."

Wesley glanced to his left and noticed Grey, prompting him to mutter, "Oh, no."

Lucy, noticing his reaction, asked, "What's wrong?"

Wesley replied, "Sergeant Grey is sitting over there with his wife."

John looked over and said, "Uh-oh, he's heading this way. Not good."

The group sipped their beers as Wesley, trying to act nonchalant, called out, "Hey! Small world."

Grey approached with a stern look. "Too small right now, Boot. For 19 years, my wife and I have had our special dinner on February 13th. Why the 13th? Because the 14th, Valentine's Day, is for amateurs. The 13th is calm, easy to find a table, no overpriced meals—just me, my wife, good food, and a break from the job."

Jackson, trying to lighten the mood, said, "That sounds nice... sir."

Grey continued, "It is. That's why I don't want to see your faces tonight. By the time I get back to my table, you'll be gone. Am I clear?"

Lucy nodded, "Crystal."

Jackson added, "Like ghosts."

Grey gave a curt nod. "Have a good evening."

Wesley turned to Jackson. "Grab our stuff, Boot."

Jackson quickly gathered their things. "Yes, sir."

Wesley chugged his beer, and the rest of the group followed suit, setting their drinks aside.

"Okay, let's go," Wesley said.

Lucy agreed, "Yeah."

As they headed toward the elevator, Wesley noticed a commotion nearby. A woman was shouting, "Get off me!"

A man's voice cut through the noise, "What's taking so long? Can we get our drink?!"

The woman repeated, "Get off me!"

Lucy urged, "Sir, let's go."

Wesley hesitated. "She needs help, Boot."

Jackson reminded him, "You heard Grey, sir."

Wesley replied, "Then you stay here, Boots. I'll be back."

He approached the man and woman. "Miss, are you all right?"

The woman looked relieved. "He bought me a drink I don't want, and he's not taking no for an answer."

Wesley firmly said, "All right, time to leave her alone."

As Wesley tried to grab the man's shoulder, the man slapped his hand away. "Get your own girl. This one's mine."

Wesley's tone hardened. "If you don't leave her alone, I'll make you regret it."

The man, clearly intoxicated, swung at Wesley. Wesley dodged the attacks, countering with a punch to the man's face. The man fell onto the table, and Wesley quickly subdued him, pinning him to the ground. "You're under arrest for harassment."

He pulled out his handcuffs and secured the man's wrists. Glancing up, he saw he was near Grey's table.

"Sorry, sir," Wesley said, as he led the man towards the elevators.

The group watched as Wesley escorted the suspect away, the evening's tension momentarily forgotten.

The next day

The next morning, sunlight filtered through the kitchen window as Wesley and Lucy prepared breakfast together in Lucy's apartment. Wesley was flipping pancakes on the griddle while Lucy brewed coffee. The aroma of fresh coffee and sizzling batter filled the room.

Lucy glanced over at Wesley, who was humming a tune. "So, about last night," she began, stirring the coffee pot. "You really stepped in to help that woman."

Wesley nodded, his attention focused on the pancakes. "Yeah, I couldn't just stand by and do nothing. The guy was being a jerk. Besides, I couldn't leave her in that situation."

Lucy smiled, appreciating his dedication. "I saw that. And even after Grey gave us the boot, you still did the right thing."

Wesley shrugged, "Grey was pretty clear about wanting us to leave, but... sometimes you have to act, you know? Even if it means stepping on toes."

Lucy laughed softly. "True. And speaking of Grey, he didn't seem too thrilled to see us. Did you catch how he was trying to avoid us?"

Wesley grinned. "Yeah, he was definitely in 'don't disturb my evening' mode. I think we might have disrupted his special night a bit more than he'd planned."

Lucy chuckled, "He'll get over it. And honestly, it was nice to see you in action like that. You were calm and collected."

Wesley turned to face her, flipping the last pancake. "Well, thanks. I guess it helps to have a partner who's not afraid to call me out when I'm being too much of a hardass."

Lucy poured coffee into two mugs and placed one on the counter next to Wesley. "Speaking of which, you didn't mention how it felt to be called out by Grey."

Wesley took a sip of his coffee and shrugged. "I get it. He's got his routine, and we sort of crashed it. But it's part of the job, right? You have to balance doing the right thing with respecting others' space."

Lucy nodded, taking a sip of her coffee. "Exactly. And despite everything, it was a good night. We handled the situation well. And I'm glad we had each other's backs."

Wesley smiled. "Yeah, me too. Last night was a reminder of why we do this job—helping people, even when it's inconvenient or tough."

Lucy leaned against the counter, looking at Wesley fondly. "And it's nice to start the day with pancakes and coffee. It makes everything seem a bit better."

Wesley laughed. "Agreed. It's the little things that make a difference. Especially after a night like that."

They shared a comfortable silence as Wesley served the pancakes onto plates. The morning sun bathed the kitchen in a warm glow, and for a moment, it felt like everything was right in their world.

Wesley set the plates on the kitchen table and motioned for Lucy to sit. "Breakfast is served, Boot. I've made sure not to burn anything this time."

Lucy grinned, taking a seat. "Well, I appreciate that. I'd hate to have to rescue breakfast from a fiery end again."

Wesley sat down across from her, giving her a playful look. "Hey, I did pretty well last time. I seem to recall you were impressed by my pancake-flipping skills."

Lucy laughed, "Impressed might be a stretch. But I'll admit, you've come a long way from the kitchen disaster of our first breakfast together."

Wesley leaned in slightly, smirking. "Oh, so you've been keeping score, huh?"

Lucy's eyes twinkled with mischief. "Only the important stuff. Like how you manage to look charming even when you're covered in flour."

Wesley's smile widened. "Flour is just a part of the process. But if you're keeping score, I might have to start doing better than just pancakes."

Lucy tilted her head, pretending to think. "Hmm. I don't know. Pancakes are a good start. Maybe you'll have to work up to gourmet dinners to impress me."

Wesley raised an eyebrow. "Gourmet dinners, huh? I suppose I could make that happen. But you'd have to be my taste tester. How do you feel about that?"

Lucy playfully pretended to ponder. "Well, I think I could be convinced to take on that role. As long as you promise to keep the flour to a minimum."

Wesley chuckled, reaching for the syrup. "Deal. And maybe, if you're lucky, I'll throw in a dessert or two."

Lucy's eyes lit up. "Dessert? Now you're talking my language."

As Wesley poured syrup over the pancakes, he looked up and met Lucy's gaze. "You know, I think I might be getting the hang of this domestic life. Especially when it involves spending time with you."

Lucy's cheeks flushed slightly. "I'm glad you think so. I'm enjoying this more than I thought I would."

Wesley gave her a warm smile. "Well, I'm glad to hear that. And I promise, I'll keep working on being the best breakfast chef I can be."

Lucy took a bite of her pancake and nodded approvingly. "So far, so good. But remember, I've got high standards now."

Wesley leaned back in his chair, a satisfied grin on his face. "High standards, huh? I think I can handle that. As long as you're willing to keep giving me feedback."

Lucy laughed. "Consider it a job requirement. And as long as we're working together, I think we'll both be just fine."

They continued eating, their conversation peppered with playful banter and affectionate glances. The morning sun cast a warm glow over the kitchen, making the moment feel even more special.

As they finished their breakfast, Wesley pushed his chair back slightly and looked across the table at Lucy. The playful banter had settled into a comfortable silence, and he took a moment to look at her.

Lucy caught his gaze and smiled softly. "What?"

Wesley's expression grew tender, and he reached across the table, gently taking her hand. "I just... I've been thinking. These moments with you, they're special to me."

Lucy's eyes softened. "They are to me, too."

Wesley leaned in slowly, his hand still holding hers, and brushed his lips against hers in a gentle kiss. When he pulled back, his eyes searched hers with earnestness. "I love you, Lucy."

Lucy's smile widened, and she leaned in to kiss him again, more deeply this time. When she pulled back, her voice was soft and full of affection. "I love you, too."

Wesley's heart swelled at her words. He squeezed her hand and grinned. "Good. Because I'm planning on making many more breakfasts like this for you."

Lucy chuckled, her eyes sparkling. "I'm looking forward to it."

They shared a lingering look, both savoring the warmth of the moment. Wesley pulled her in for another hug, resting his chin on the top of her head. "You make everything better, you know that?"

Lucy nestled closer to him, her voice muffled against his shoulder. "And you make my mornings better. Every single one."

Wesley held her a little tighter, feeling a deep sense of contentment. "Here's to many more mornings together."

Lucy pulled back slightly, her eyes meeting his with a playful glint. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

They stayed wrapped up in each other's embrace for a few more moments, enjoying the simple joy of being together. The world outside could wait; for now, it was just the two of them, savoring their love and the comfort of their shared morning.

Wesley glanced at his phone and said, "Grab your things, Boot. We need to be at the station soon."

Lucy looked up, curious. "How soon?"

Wesley replied with a grin, "If we hustle, we've got about 20 minutes."

Lucy nodded with determination. "Got it, sir." She quickly headed to her room to change into her uniform.

Wesley chuckled and started getting dressed himself, pleased by her efficiency.

Once they were dressed, they hurried to Wesley's car. Wesley glanced over and asked, "Want to take the wheel, Boot?"

Lucy's face lit up with excitement. "I can drive your car?"

Wesley tossed her the keys, and she caught them with a grin. "Just promise me you won't scratch it."

Lucy laughed, "You got it, sir."

At the station

Lucy pulled into the police station's driveway and parked the car with smooth precision.

Wesley got out and started inspecting the vehicle, a playful smirk on his face.

Lucy stepped out of the driver's seat and raised an eyebrow. "Seriously?"

Wesley glanced over, still eyeing the car. "What? You know how much I love this ride, Boot."

Lucy chuckled and tossed the keys to him. "Yes, I do, sir."

Wesley caught the keys effortlessly with one hand, never breaking eye contact with the car.

Lucy laughed. "Nice catch."

Wesley grinned. "Thanks, Lucy."

They walked into the station, got their uniform on and they went into the briefing room.

In the Briefing Room

Grey stood at the front of the briefing room and addressed the team. "Alright, listen up. Today is one of the most dangerous days of the year."

John raised an eyebrow and asked, "Valentine's Day, sir? Really? Not Black Friday or New Year's?"

Grey nodded. "Exactly, Officer Nolan. Valentine's Day brings out a perfect storm of heightened emotions—breakups, jealousy, revenge. It's a recipe for dangerous situations."

He walked over to Wesley and continued, "Sometimes, violence can catch you off guard, even when you're just out for dinner."

Wesley met his gaze and replied, "Sir, I'm sorry about last night. But when that man was harassing the woman, what was I supposed to do? Ignore my training? You taught me never to overlook someone's distress, sir."

Grey considered Wesley's response and nodded. "I understand, Wesley. It's just that when you're on duty, especially on a night like this, you need to be mindful of the consequences."

Wesley replied, "I get it, sir. I was just trying to help."

Grey gave a small, understanding smile. "I appreciate that, but remember, it's also about keeping the situation under control. We need to handle these incidents carefully, especially when they involve potential conflicts like that."

John chimed in, "So what's the plan for today, sir?"

Lucy said, "Sir, I don't see my T.O. around."

Grey replied, "Officer Bradford's taken a personal day."

Lopez raised an eyebrow. "Tim? He's never taken a personal day in his entire career."

Grey nodded. "Be that as it may, he's off today. And Chen, you should be grateful. I practically had to beg the Captain to approve this, and she only agreed at the last minute."

Lucy asked, "I'm afraid to ask what you had to beg for."

Grey said, "I'm appointing Officer Wick as your temporary Training Officer."

Wesley protested, "But, sir, I'm just a rookie."

Grey responded, "You're not just any rookie. From what your  T.O.s have told me, you've not only memorized the Rookie Handbook but also know hospital regulations like the back of your hand. I'm confident you can handle being a temporary T.O. when needed."

Wesley looked surprised. "You're serious?"

Grey raised an eyebrow. "Does it look like I'm kidding?"

Wesley said, "No, sir. Do you want us to provide regular updates since we're both rookies?"

Grey nodded. "Yes, that would be appreciated."

Wesley said, "Understood, sir."

Grey said, "All right. That's it. Everybody be safe out there. And Wesley, don't worry about last night. Just keep focused and use your judgment."

Wesley smiled and responded, "Thanks, sir. I'll make sure to."

The team dispersed, ready to tackle the challenges of the day with renewed focus and camaraderie.

Lucy walked over to Wesley and asked, "What's our first move, boss?"

Wesley replied with a grin, "This isn't your first day, Boot. You know the drill—grab the gear."

Lucy smiled and said, "You're enjoying this a bit too much, aren't you?"

Wesley smirked. "Maybe just a little."

Lucy said, "I'll get the gear. You figure out which shop we're taking."

Wesley nodded. "Got it."

As Lucy walked out of the briefing room, Wesley followed and approached Grey. "Sir, which shop are we assigned to today?"

Grey responded, "You're taking Bradford's shop. When you step in as a temporary T.O., use their shop. I want to keep ours for us."

Wesley nodded. "Understood, sir."

As Wesley turned to leave, Lopez stopped him. "Hey, T.O. Wick."

Wesley smiled. "Lopez."

Lopez said, "If I were to request a day off, would you be able to look after Jackson?"

Wesley said, "Sure. I'm the backup T.O. when someone needs time off."

Lopez said, "I noticed. How do you feel about that?"

Wesley replied, "Honestly, I'm surprised they're letting us do it. I thought for sure it wouldn't be an option."

Lopez said, "Grey's right. You're not your average rookie. You know things that most rookies are still learning."

Wesley agreed. "True."

Lopez said, "There was something else I wanted to ask you."

Before she could continue, Lucy returned and said, "Hey, did you figure out which shop we're using?"

Wesley said, "We're taking Bradford's shop. Grey wants me to use the T.O.'s shop I'm covering. Set it up, Boot."

Lucy responded with a smile, "Yes, sir," and walked away.

Lopez then asked, "Do you happen to have another brother besides Nolan?"

Wesley replied, "I do. Why?"

Lopez said, "I ran into him last week. His name is Brian?"

Wesley looked surprised. "Oh, my God. You met my brother?"

Lopez nodded. "Yes. And, well, we... spent some time together."

Wesley was taken aback. "I'm sorry, what? My brother pulled someone like you?"

Lopez raised an eyebrow. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Wesley looked stunned and said, "Wow. I'm surprised. My brother Brian is way out of your league. I mean, he doesn't seem like your type at all."

Lopez raised an eyebrow, looking both intrigued and amused. "Really? And what's my type?"

Wesley chuckled. "I don't know, but I thought for sure it wouldn't be with him."

Lopez laughed softly. "Well, it seems like I surprised you then."

Wesley grinned. "Definitely. I guess Brian has a knack for surprises."

Lopez said, "He certainly does. But don't worry, I'm not planning on making it a regular thing."

Wesley said, "Good to know. I was starting to worry that I'd have to hear all about it from my brother."

Lopez smiled. "I wouldn't want to put you through that. Anyway, good luck with your temporary T.O. gig."

Wesley nodded. "Thanks, Lopez. And if you need anything, just let me know."

Lopez waved as she walked away, leaving Wesley with a bemused expression. He shook his head and headed toward the area where Lucy was setting up the gear.

Lucy and Wesley cruised down the street in their patrol car, the city bustling around them. Lucy looked over at Wesley, a grin spreading across her face.

Lucy said, "You know, I'm excited we get to work together like this. It's nice to have some time to just focus on patrol."

Wesley smiled but kept his eyes on the road. "Yeah, it's good. But remember, Boot, we've got to stay sharp. This isn't just a fun day out. We need to focus on our duties."

Lucy's grin faltered slightly as she nodded. "Got it. Focus."

Wesley glanced at her and smirked. "You know, Boot, as much as I like that you're excited, it's important to keep your head in the game. We've got a job to do."

Lucy's excitement was tempered by Wesley's reminder, but she appreciated the balance he brought. "Understood, sir."

Wesley gave a quick nod and said, "Good. Let's make sure we keep everything in check and do our best."

Lucy settled into her seat, her enthusiasm tempered by Wesley's reminder but still evident in her demeanor. "Ready when you are, Wesley."

Wesley gave her a reassuring smile as they continued their patrol, the dynamic between them blending focus with a hint of camaraderie.

As Wesley drove, the radio crackled to life. Dispatch's voice came through clearly:

"7-Adam-19, do you copy?"

Wesley grabbed the radio, responding promptly, "7-Adam-19, loud and clear. Over."

Dispatch replied, "We have a possible 211 at the 7-Eleven on 3rd and Main. The suspect is reportedly armed. Proceed with caution."

Wesley exchanged a glance with Lucy before responding, "Copy that. We're en route. Over and out."

Later

Wesley and Lucy arrived at the 7-Eleven, pulling up to a scene where the store's front door was ajar and a few customers were milling about nervously. Wesley turned to Lucy as they prepared to exit the car.

"Alright, Boot, follow my lead on this one. We don't want to escalate anything unnecessarily."

Lucy nodded, her face set with determination. "Got it. What's the plan?"

Wesley glanced around, assessing the situation. "We'll approach calmly, make sure the area's secure, and try to talk to the store employees or witnesses. Let's keep our weapons holstered for now and see if we can diffuse the situation without making it worse."

Lucy followed Wesley as they entered the store cautiously. Wesley approached the counter, where the clerk looked visibly shaken.

"Hey there," Wesley said in a calm, reassuring tone. "We're with the police. Can you tell us what happened?"

The clerk, still nervous, responded, "There was a man who came in here demanding money. He had a gun, but he ran off when he saw the alarm going off."

Wesley nodded and turned to Lucy. "Let's check the back and see if we can find any evidence or get more details from witnesses."

Lucy followed Wesley as they moved through the store, keeping their eyes open for any sign of the suspect or additional information that could help them resolve the situation safely.

As Wesley and Lucy made their way to the back of the store, they moved cautiously, scanning for any sign of the suspect or clues. Wesley signaled for Lucy to stay alert as they reached the stockroom area.

Suddenly, the sharp crack of gunfire echoed through the narrow space. Wesley and Lucy ducked behind a stack of crates as bullets whizzed past, embedding themselves into the walls and shelves.

Wesley grabbed his radio and shouted, "7-Adam-19 to Dispatch! We're taking fire in the back of the 7-Eleven on Main Street. The suspect is armed and shooting at us. We need backup and a secure perimeter ASAP!"

Dispatch's voice crackled over the radio. "7-Adam-19, copy that. The backup is en route. Stay safe and maintain cover until they arrive."

Wesley glanced at Lucy, who was crouched beside him, her face a mix of determination and concern. "Stay low and keep your head down. We'll wait for backup, then try to flush the suspect out."

Lucy nodded, her grip firm on her weapon as she kept a vigilant watch on the stockroom's entrance. Wesley peeked around the crates, trying to gauge the suspect's position and movements, while the sound of sirens began to approach in the distance.

Through the small gaps between the crates, Wesley could see the suspect's shadow shifting, indicating that he was still in the back, likely searching for a way out or preparing for another attack.

Wesley continued to hold his position, ready to react as soon as backup arrived.

Wesley carefully peered around the corner, his eyes scanning for the best opportunity to neutralize the threat without endangering Lucy or themselves. He spotted the suspect a few feet away, his gun trained on the entrance, oblivious to Wesley's presence.

Wesley assessed the angle and the trajectory, then took a deep breath. He adjusted his aim slightly, calculating the bullet's curve to ensure it would hit the suspect's gun. With a steady hand, he fired.

The bullet curved around the corner, striking the suspect's hand and forcing the gun to fly across the room. The suspect yelped in pain and surprise, his weapon skidding out of reach.

Lucy seized the moment, springing into action. She sprinted forward, closing the distance between herself and the now-disarmed suspect. With practiced efficiency, she tackled him to the ground and quickly applied handcuffs.

Wesley moved up behind her, keeping his weapon trained on the suspect to ensure he didn't make any sudden moves. "Stay down and keep your hands where I can see them," Wesley ordered, his voice steady and authoritative.

Dispatch's voice crackled over Wesley's radio. "7-Adam-19, backup is on the scene. How's the situation?"

Wesley responded, "Suspect is in custody. Lucy's got him secured. We're clear to begin the search and ensure there are no other threats."

As the backup officers arrived, Wesley lowered his weapon and approached Lucy, who was still restraining the suspect. "Nice work, Boot," he said, offering her a supportive nod.

Lucy, catching her breath and still focused on the task at hand, replied with a grin, "Thanks, sir. That was some impressive shooting."

Wesley smiled back, a mix of pride and relief in his eyes. "We make a good team."

The backup officers quickly took over, securing the suspect and beginning their investigation. Wesley and Lucy stepped aside, allowing the professionals to handle the scene while they caught their breath and assessed the situation.

Wesley looked at Lucy and said, "Let's head back to the station and finish up the paperwork. We've got a lot to report."

Lucy nodded a satisfied smile on her face. "Got it, sir."

Wesley and Lucy drove back to the station, the suspect securely restrained in the backseat of their patrol car. The tension from the earlier confrontation still lingered, but both officers were focused on the task ahead.

The suspect, seated with his hands cuffed behind his back, started to mumble, his voice laced with frustration. "So, what's gonna happen to me now? You think you've got me all figured out?"

Wesley glanced at Lucy, who met his gaze with a slight nod. Wesley then looked back at the suspect through the rearview mirror. "That depends on what you have to say. You're in custody, which means you'll be processed and questioned. If you've got anything to add, now's the time."

The suspect huffed, clearly agitated. "I ain't got anything to say. You think you're so tough, huh? Just wait till I get outta here."

Lucy, keeping her eyes on the road, chimed in, "You're in for a long night. The evidence against you is solid, and you're not going anywhere until we've sorted this out."

Wesley added, "So if you've got any information or if there's something you want to get off your chest, now's your chance to cooperate. It could make things a lot easier for you."

The suspect's defiance seemed to waver slightly as he stared at the floor. "Yeah, sure. I've heard that one before."

Wesley and Lucy exchanged glances. Wesley shifted his focus back to the road. "Well, if you decide to talk, we'll be here to listen. But for now, just sit tight."

As they approached the station, Wesley continued, "Let's make sure we get a full report on this one. It's been a long day, but it's important to get everything documented properly."

Lucy nodded in agreement. "Definitely. And once we're done, maybe we can grab a bite to eat. It's been a while since we've had a moment to relax."

Wesley grinned. "Sounds like a plan. But first, let's get this guy processed and make sure everything's in order."

They arrived at the station and parked. Wesley turned off the engine and turned to Lucy. "Ready for another round of paperwork?"

Lucy chuckled. "Always. Let's get this done."

They exited the car, Wesley leading the way as they escorted the suspect into the station. The hustle and bustle of the precinct was a welcome contrast to the tension of the earlier scene. Wesley and Lucy prepared for the next phase of their shift, focused and determined to see the case through.

At the station

Wesley and Lucy led the suspect into the station, the halls buzzing with the usual activity. Wesley gave Lucy a quick nod, signaling that he'd handle things from here. She headed off to start the paperwork, while Wesley made his way to Grey's office.

As he approached, Wesley knocked lightly before opening the door. "Sergeant Grey, got a minute?"

Grey looked up from his desk, his expression turning serious as he took in Wesley's demeanor. "Of course, Wick. What's the situation?"

Wesley stepped inside and began to brief Grey. "We responded to a possible 211 call. When we arrived, the suspect was in the middle of a robbery. We took him down, but not without a bit of a fight."

Grey nodded, signaling Wesley to continue. "I'm listening."

Wesley detailed the incident. "Lucy and I went to the back entrance to avoid escalating the situation. We took fire but managed to suppress it. I got a clean shot and disarmed the suspect. Lucy moved in for the arrest while I kept him covered."

Grey raised an eyebrow. "Good work on handling the situation with minimal escalation. What about the suspect's condition and the evidence?"

Wesley replied, "The suspect's fine, just a few scrapes. He's currently in holding and will be processed. We've gathered evidence from the scene, including surveillance footage and eyewitness statements. I'll make sure everything is documented properly."

Grey's expression softened slightly, impressed. "Sounds like you handled it well. How's Lucy holding up?"

Wesley smiled. "She's doing great. She was excited to work together solo and handled everything smoothly."

Grey chuckled. "Glad to hear. You two make a good team. Anything else I should know?"

Wesley hesitated for a moment. "Well, there was some tension with the suspect before we got him under control. He tried to act tough, but he's not making it easy for himself."

Grey's eyes narrowed slightly. "Keep me updated on any developments. And make sure Lucy is aware of how to manage these situations in the future. Good work today, Wesley."

Wesley nodded. "Will do, sir. I'll keep you posted on any new information."

Grey waved him off with a nod. "All right, get back to it. And make sure you both get a chance to unwind after today."

Wesley left the office, heading back to the squad room. As he walked, he reflected on the day's events, feeling a sense of accomplishment. He was ready to wrap up the paperwork and, hopefully, enjoy that long-awaited bite to eat with Lucy.

Wesley bumped into Lopez in the hallway and said, "Hey, Lopez. What's got you down?"

Lopez frowned and replied, "Your brother, Brian. He's been arrested."

Wesley's eyebrows shot up. "Brian? What happened?"

Lopez explained, "He was arrested for interrupting a judge in court."

Wesley looked puzzled. "Brian's a lawyer. What was he doing?"

Lopez said, "He was arguing a case where a cop allegedly used excessive force. He said, 'Even if my client did resist arrest, that doesn't give you the right to break his arm.'"

Wesley raised an eyebrow. "You haven't broken anyone's arm on duty."

Lopez shook her head. "No, but his comments didn't go over well."

Wesley sighed. "I'll go talk to him. Is he in a holding cell?"

Lopez nodded. "Yes, he's in holding. And, you know, maybe you're right. He's not my type anyway. You're more my type."

Wesley grinned. "I'm flattered, but I'm taken."

Lopez smiled. "I know. Just thought I'd let you know."

Wesley approached the holding area and was let in by a guard. He walked to the cell where Brian was sitting on the bunk, looking up with a mix of frustration and embarrassment.

Wesley cleared his throat as he stepped inside the cell. "Hey, Brian."

Brian looked up, his expression softening slightly. "Wesley. I didn't expect to see you here."

Wesley took a seat on the edge of the bunk next to Brian. "Yeah, I heard what happened. Interrupting a judge in court? Not your best moment."

Brian rubbed his temples, clearly stressed. "I got carried away. I was defending a client and it just... spiraled. I didn't think it would lead to this."

Wesley leaned in. "You've got to be more careful. Especially with the way things are, you can't afford to make enemies in the legal system."

Brian sighed. "I know. I just—"

Wesley cut him off gently. "Look, I'm here to help. I can get you a good lawyer if you need one. Just, please, keep a lower profile for a while. We don't need more complications."

Brian nodded, looking relieved. "Thanks, Wesley. I appreciate it."

Wesley stood up, patting Brian on the shoulder. "I've got to get back to work. But I'll check in later. Hang tight, okay?"

Brian gave a small, grateful smile. "Got it. And, uh, thanks for coming down."

Wesley nodded and turned to leave the cell. "Anytime. Let's try to keep you out of trouble from now on."

As Wesley walked back to the exit, he could hear Brian's quiet thanks behind him.

Wesley stepped out of the holding area and made his way to the main floor of the station. He spotted Lucy near the front desk, chatting with Lopez.

He approached them, giving Lopez a nod of thanks. "Hey, Lucy. Lopez offered to take care of our paperwork, so we're clear to head back out."

Lucy looked up, her expression shifting from curious to relieved. "Awesome. I'm ready to hit the streets. What's the plan?"

Wesley glanced at Lopez. "Thanks again for handling that. We'll be on patrol, so if anything comes up, we'll be in touch."

Lopez smiled and gave a thumbs-up. "Got it. Stay safe out there."

Wesley turned back to Lucy, who was already grabbing her gear. "Let's get going, Boot. We've got some patrol to cover."

Lucy adjusted her equipment with a grin. "Lead the way, boss."

Wesley and Lucy headed out of the station and made their way to the patrol car. As they got in, Wesley started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot.

Lucy settled into the passenger seat. "Any particular area you want to cover today?"

Wesley focused on the road, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "Let's stick to our usual routes. Keeps things interesting."

Lucy chuckled. "Sounds good to me. And, by the way, nice job back there with your brother. I'm sure it meant a lot to him."

Wesley gave her a quick, appreciative glance. "Thanks, Boot. Let's just hope this shift is a bit less eventful."

As they drove off, the city's lights began to fade into the distance, and the patrol car rolled into the quiet night, ready for whatever the shift would bring.

Later

As Wesley and Lucy patrolled the quiet streets, the radio crackled to life.

"7-Adam-19, do you copy?"

Wesley grabbed the mic. "This is 7-Adam-19. Go ahead."

Dispatch's voice came through clearly. "We've got a report of a possible 271 at the Bistro on 4th Street. Possible child abandonment. Can you respond?"

Wesley exchanged a glance with Lucy. "Copy that. We're on our way."

He flipped on the lights and siren, weaving through traffic as they headed toward the restaurant. The city's night lights streaked by as they made their way to the scene.

Lucy checked her gear, her face serious. "Any more details on this? Like the age of the child or if there are any witnesses?"

Wesley shook his head as he drove. "Nothing yet. We'll need to assess the situation when we get there."

They arrived at the Bistro and parked the patrol car a short distance away. Wesley and Lucy exited the vehicle, quickly donning their vests and grabbing their gear.

Wesley turned to Lucy. "Let's approach carefully. We need to make sure the child is safe and understands the full context. I'll take point. Stay alert."

Lucy nodded, her expression focused. "Got it."

They moved towards the entrance of the restaurant. Wesley pushed open the door, and they stepped inside. The interior was bustling with activity, but Wesley's eyes immediately caught sight of a small child sitting alone at a table, looking frightened and forlorn.

Wesley approached the child slowly, keeping his voice soft and reassuring. "Hey there, little one. Are you okay? My name's Officer Wick and this is Officer Chen. We're here to help."

The child looked up, their eyes wide and tearful. Wesley noticed the child was clutching a small toy, and he knelt to be at eye level.

Lucy scanned the restaurant, looking for any signs of an adult who might be responsible. She spotted a few concerned patrons who had been observing the situation and approached them to gather more information.

Wesley continued speaking gently to the child. "Can you tell me where your mom or dad is? Or maybe someone who came with you?"

The child sniffled and shook their head, clearly upset and scared. Wesley glanced at Lucy, who was now talking to a waitress who had approached them with concern.

Lucy reported back, "No one has claimed responsibility for the child yet. I'm getting some details from the staff. Looks like the child's been here alone for a little while."

Wesley nodded and looked back at the child. "Okay, we're going to make sure you're safe. Do you want to tell us your name?"

The child whispered, "Ethan."

Wesley reassured him, "Alright, Ethan, we're going to find out what happened and get you some help. You're not alone."

As Wesley and Lucy continued to assist the child, Wesley called in a status update over the radio. "Dispatch, we have a child abandoned at the Bistro. Requesting immediate backup and a child welfare unit."

Dispatch responded promptly. "Copy that, 7-Adam-19. Backup and child welfare are on the way."

Lucy stayed close to the child, providing comfort and reassurance while Wesley coordinated with dispatch and checked on the child's condition. They both remained vigilant, ensuring the child's safety until additional units arrived to handle the situation further.

Wesley and Lucy continued to comfort Ethan as they waited for backup and child welfare to arrive. Lucy crouched down to Ethan's level, speaking softly and reassuringly.

"Hey, Ethan, can you tell me if you remember where you were before you came here? Any other places or people you were with?"

Ethan shook his head, tears streaming down his face. "I don't know... I was just with my mom, and then she... she left."

Lucy patted Ethan's back gently. "It's okay, Ethan. We're here to help you. Just hang tight."

A few minutes later, backup arrived along with a representative from Child Welfare. The officers and social worker approached Wesley and Lucy.

The child welfare worker introduced themselves. "Hi, I'm Sarah from Child Protective Services. I'm here to take over and make sure Ethan gets the care he needs."

Wesley nodded and handed Ethan's details over to Sarah. "This is Ethan. We found him here alone. His mother left, and we haven't been able to reach her."

Sarah took Ethan's hand gently. "Thank you for keeping him safe. We'll take it from here."

Ethan looked up at Wesley and Lucy with wide, scared eyes. Wesley crouched down and spoke softly. "Ethan, Sarah is here to help you now. We're going to make sure you're taken care of, okay?"

Ethan nodded, still tearful, but seeming slightly reassured. Sarah guided him towards the waiting CPS vehicle.

Lucy stood up and walked over to Wesley, her expression a mix of relief and concern. "Good work today, Wesley."

Wesley nodded. "Thanks. Let's head back and finish up. Lopez is probably wondering if we're ever coming back."

As they walked back to their patrol car, Wesley glanced at Lucy. "Ready for the paperwork? Lopez said she'd handle it, but we might need to check in with her anyway."

Lucy smiled. "Definitely. Let's go."

They both headed back to their patrol car, relieved that Ethan was in safe hands and ready to tackle the rest of their shift.

At the station, Wesley and Lucy walked in and headed straight to Grey's office. Wesley knocked lightly before entering.

"Hey, sir," Wesley said. "We got a call about a 271 at a restaurant. Found a young boy named Ethan there. His mother had left him behind, but we got him in good hands. Child Welfare took him in, and they're taking it from here."

Grey nodded, looking at Wesley with approval. "Good work. It's always tough dealing with cases like that, but you and Lucy handled it well."

Wesley gave a small nod of thanks. "Thanks, sir."

Grey glanced at the clock and then at Wesley. "Alright, it's time to clock out. Finish up your paperwork and tell Lucy to clock out when you're done. I'll see you both tomorrow."

Wesley nodded. "Got it. Thanks, Grey."

As Wesley walked back to the main area of the station, he saw Lucy at the desk, sorting through the paperwork they'd collected. He approached her and said, "Grey said it's time to clock out. Let's finish up and then we can head out."

Lucy looked up with a relieved smile. "Sounds good. I'm almost done with this. I'll be ready in just a few minutes."

Wesley sat down at the adjacent desk and started working on his part of the paperwork. The two worked efficiently, finishing up the necessary reports and ensuring everything was in order.

Once they were done, Wesley walked over to Lucy. "All set? Let's clock out and get some rest. It's been a long day."

Lucy nodded, gathering her things. "I'm ready. Let's get out of here."

They made their way to the clock-out station, ready to head home after a busy shift.

Later

After clocking out, Wesley and Lucy decided to celebrate Valentine's Day with a well-deserved date. Wesley had planned something special for the evening, and he could see Lucy's excitement as they left the station.

"Ready for a night out, Boot?" Wesley asked with a grin as they walked to his car.

Lucy smiled back. "Absolutely. What do you have in mind?"

Wesley opened the passenger door for her. "You'll see. I've got a surprise planned."

Once they were settled in the car, Wesley drove them to a charming restaurant where he'd made a reservation. It was a cozy, upscale place with a warm ambiance, perfect for a romantic evening.

As they entered the restaurant, the host led them to a beautifully set table in a quiet corner. Wesley pulled out Lucy's chair before sitting down himself.

Lucy looked around, impressed. "This place is amazing. You went all out."

Wesley shrugged, a playful smile on his face. "Thought you deserved something special after today. Besides, it's Valentine's Day. I wanted to make sure it was a good one."

They ordered their meals, and as they waited, Wesley reached across the table, taking Lucy's hand in his. "You know, I'm really glad we're doing this. It's been a tough day, but it's nice to have this time with you."

Lucy squeezed his hand gently. "I couldn't agree more. It's nice to unwind and enjoy the evening. Thanks for making it special."

As their food arrived, they enjoyed a delicious meal, shared laughs, and talked about their plans and dreams. The conversation flowed easily, and the connection between them deepened as they continued their date.

After dessert, Wesley led Lucy out of the restaurant and to a nearby park where they could stroll and enjoy the evening air. The park was beautifully lit with string lights and had a romantic atmosphere.

Wesley stopped by a bench and sat down, pulling Lucy close. "I've had an amazing time tonight. I hope you have too."

Lucy rested her head on his shoulder. "I have. Thank you for everything, Wesley. It means a lot."

Wesley looked down at her, his eyes soft. "I love you, Lucy. I'm so glad to have you in my life."

Lucy looked up at him with a smile, her eyes sparkling. "I love you too, Wesley."

They shared a tender kiss under the twinkling lights, enjoying the peaceful moment together. It was the perfect ending to a busy but meaningful Valentine's Day.

As they arrived at Lucy's apartment, Wesley parked the car and turned to her with a warm smile.

"Tonight was perfect," Wesley said, reaching over to take her hand. "I'm really glad we got to spend it together."

Lucy smiled back, her eyes reflecting the affection she felt. "Me too. Thanks for everything, Wesley. It was a great way to end a hectic day."

Wesley leaned in for a gentle kiss. "I'll see you tomorrow, Boot."

Lucy nodded, giving him one last kiss before stepping out of the car. "Goodnight, Wesley."

Wesley watched her as she walked to her door, a content smile on his face. Once she was safely inside, he drove off toward Zoe's apartment.

When he arrived, Wesley took a deep breath and rang the doorbell. Zoe opened the door with a surprised but happy expression.

"Wesley! I didn't expect to see you tonight," Zoe said, stepping aside to let him in.

Wesley smiled as he walked inside. "I wanted to drop by and see you. It's Valentine's Day, and I didn't want to miss spending part of it with you."

Zoe's eyes softened as she moved in to give him a warm hug. "That's sweet of you. Come in."

Wesley followed her into the living room, where Zoe had set up a cozy little Valentine's Day setup with candles and a few snacks. The atmosphere was intimate and inviting.

"I hope I'm not intruding," Wesley said as he looked around.

Zoe shook her head. "Not at all. I'm glad you're here. What do you want to do tonight?"

Wesley took her hand and smiled. "How about we just relax and enjoy each other's company? It's been a long day, and I'd love to unwind with you."

Zoe nodded, pulling him toward the couch. "Sounds perfect. Let's just enjoy the night together."

They settled into the couch, sharing stories and laughter as they sipped on wine and enjoyed the evening. Wesley felt a deep sense of contentment being with Zoe, appreciating the balance and support she provided in his life.

As the night went on, Wesley knew that while the day had been busy and filled with challenges, moments like these made it all worthwhile.

As Wesley and Zoe were settled on the couch, Zoe looked at Wesley thoughtfully. "You know, I wanted to tell you something. I was put on maternity leave yesterday. It's been a bit overwhelming, but I'm excited for the new chapter."

Wesley's eyes widened with surprise. "Wow, Zoe. Congratulations! I didn't know. How are you feeling about it?"

Zoe smiled warmly. "I'm feeling good, but it's a lot to adjust to. Anyway, where's Lucy? I thought she'd be resting at home."

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Wesley and Zoe exchanged curious glances before Wesley got up to answer it. When he opened the door, he was surprised to see Lucy standing there with a hopeful smile.

"Lucy? What are you doing here? I thought you were going to rest at home after a long day," Wesley asked, puzzled.

Lucy smiled and shrugged. "I decided I'd rather spend some time with both of you. It's Valentine's Day, and I thought it would be nice to all be together and maybe fall asleep together."

Wesley's face lit up with a smile. "That sounds perfect, Boot. I'm glad you came."

Lucy stepped inside, and Wesley closed the door behind her. Zoe greeted her warmly. "Hi, Lucy. It's good to see you. We're glad you joined us."

Lucy gave Zoe a hug. "Hi, Zoe. I hope you don't mind me coming over."

Zoe shook her head. "Not at all. We were just enjoying a quiet evening, and your company is a great addition."

Wesley led Lucy back to the couch, where they all settled in together. The evening turned into a cozy, shared moment, filled with laughter and conversation. Wesley felt a deep sense of contentment as they all relaxed and enjoyed each other's presence.

As they sat together, Wesley looked at both women and realized that while his life was busy and sometimes challenging, moments like these made it all worthwhile. The warmth and love they shared made him feel truly fortunate.

As the evening wound down, the three of them settled into a comfortable routine. Wesley dimmed the lights, creating a soft, soothing ambiance in the room. Lucy and Zoe made themselves comfortable on the couch while Wesley went to the kitchen to grab some snacks and drinks.

When he returned, he handed Lucy and Zoe their snacks and joined them on the couch. The conversation grew quieter, and they enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere as they ate and chatted.

Eventually, Zoe let out a content sigh. "I'm ready to get some rest. It's been a long day."

Lucy nodded in agreement, her eyes already beginning to droop. "Me too. This has been nice, though."

Wesley stood and helped Zoe up from the couch. "Let's get ready for bed. We can use the guest room for you, Lucy."

Lucy smiled and followed Wesley to the guest room, where he had already prepared the bed. Zoe joined them, and they all made sure the room was cozy and inviting. Wesley set up a few extra pillows and blankets, ensuring everyone would be comfortable.

As they settled into bed, Wesley took a moment to appreciate the simple yet meaningful scene before him. Lucy and Zoe both looked relaxed and content, their presence filling the room with warmth.

Wesley climbed into bed next to Lucy, who snuggled up close to him. Zoe, on the other side, adjusted her pillows and smiled at them both.

Lucy whispered softly, "I'm glad we could all be together tonight."

Wesley brushed a strand of hair from Lucy's face and smiled. "Me too, Boot. It's been a perfect end to a busy day."

Zoe, already starting to drift off, murmured, "Goodnight, you two."

Wesley and Lucy both responded with a gentle "Goodnight" before the room fell into a comfortable silence. The soft rhythm of their breathing created a soothing lullaby as they all settled into a deep, restful sleep.

In the quiet of the night, Wesley felt a profound sense of peace, surrounded by the people he cared about most. The challenges of the day seemed far away, replaced by the simple joy of being together.

To be continued...