The Transfer

Chapter 20: No More Secrets

3rd person's POV:

The next morning, Tim and Lucy arrived at the station, the buzz from the previous night's revelations still lingering in the air. The team greeted them with knowing smiles and a few playful jabs, but the atmosphere was supportive, filled with camaraderie and understanding.

"Ready for another day?" Tim asked as they walked out to the patrol car, a hint of excitement in his voice despite the early hour.

Lucy smiled, adjusting her vest. "As ready as I'll ever be. Let's see what the day throws at us."

Their first call came in just as they were cruising through the neighborhood- a domestic disturbance at a nearby address. When they arrived at the location, Tim's face froze as he recognized the house. It belonged to Ashley, his ex- girlfriend.

Lucy noticed his hesitation and gave him a questioning look. "Everything okay?"

"Yeah," Tim replied, forcing a small smile. "Just wasn't expecting to see her today."

They approached the front door, and Tim knocked. Moments later, the door swung open to reveal Ashley, her eyes widening in surprise when she saw Tim standing there.

"Tim?" She exclaimed, her voice a mix of relief and something else- familiarity. "I didn't expect to see you here."

"Hi, Ashley," Tim said, his tone professional but kind. "We got a call about a disturbance. Is everything okay?"

Ashley glanced back into the house before stepping outside, closing the door behind her. "Yeah, sorey about that. It was just a misunderstanding with the new neighbor. Everything's fine now."

Lucy stood slightly behind Tim, observing the interaction. Ashley was pretty, with long blonde hair and bright blue eyes that had a certain spark when she looked at Tim. There was an awkwardness in the air, and Lucy couldn't shake the feeling that she was intruding on something.

"Good to hear," Tim said. "But we still need to make sure everything's under control. Do you mind telling us what happened?"

Ashley explained the situation- a simple argument that had escalated but had since calmed down. As she spoke, she kept her gaze on Tim, occasionally touching his arm or stepping closer, her body language signaling more than just casual friendship. Lucy's discomfort grew, but she remained silent, keeping her expression neutral.

When the conversation shifted from the incident to more personal matters, Lucy sensed that Ashley was trying to prolong the interaction. She started to feel like a third wheel.

"So, Tim," Ashley said, her voice softening, "How have you been? It's been a while. I've missed seeing you around."

Tim smiled politely but kept a professional distance. "I've been good. Busy, you know how it is."

Ashley's smile grew as she leaned a little closer. "Yeah, I can imagine. You still single? Or is there someone new in your life?"

Lucy stiffened at the question, but before she could react, Tim reached for her hand and smiled warmly.

"Actually, I'm dating Lucy." Tim said, his voice filled with pride and affection. "We've been together for a while now."

Lucy's heart swelled at his words, and she couldn't help but smile at Ashley, who looked taken aback. The disappointment in Ashley's eyes was evident, but she quickly masked it with a forced smile.

"Oh, I see," Ashley said, her tone shifting to one of polite indifference. "Well, good for you two. I'm glad you're happy, Tim."

"Thanks, Ashley" Tim replied, keeping things cordial. "Take care of yourself, okay? And if you need anything, don't hesitate to call."

Ashley nodded, offering a faint smile before retreating back into her house. As the door closed behind her, Tim and Lucy exchanged a look, both relieved that the interaction was over.

"That was... awkward." Lucy said as they walked back to the patrol car.

"Yeah, sorry about that." Tim said, running a hand through his hair. "I didn't expect her to be so... forward."

"It's fine," Lucy said, squeezing his hand as they got into the car. "You handled it well. I'm glad you told her about us."

Tim smiled, leaning over to kiss her forehead before starting the engine. "I'm glad too. No more hiding, right?"

"Right." Lucy agreed, feeling a sense of closure. They drove off, ready to face the rest of their shift together.

The rest of the day passed uneventfully, with the usual mix of calls and routine patrols. By the time their shift ended, both Tim and Lucy were ready to head home, eager to unwind after the day's events

Back at Lucy's apartment, they settled onto the couch, the comfort of their home enveloping them in a sense of peace. Tim wrapped an arm around Lucy, pulling her close.

"You know," Tim said, his voice soft. "I'm really happy with how things are turning out."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, content in each other's company. The challenges they had faced, both individually and together, had brought them closer, strengthening their bond in ways they hadn't anticipated.

As the evening wore on, they talked about their future, their hopes and their plans. But for now, they were simply grateful to be together, having navigated through the ups and downs of their relationship.

And as they drifted off to sleep, they knew that whatever the future held, they would face it together side by side, with the support of their friends and the strength of their love.

The End.