Unexpected Love

19. First Day Back

It had been a whirlwind of emotions since Angela had asked Lucy to be her girlfriend. Every day since then, she'd woken up with a sense of purpose and happiness that she hadn't felt in a long time.

Taking care of Lucy had become her top priority - making sure she ate properly, remembered her insulin, and even accompanied her to therapy sessions. Now, as Lucy prepared to return to work at the police station, Angela felt a mix of pride and anxiety.

She knew her girlfriend was strong, but she couldn't help worrying about how she'd handle the stress and scrutiny that came with the job. As they drove to the station, Angela reached over to squeeze Lucy's hand reassuringly.

"You're going to do great today baby," she said, offering a small smile. Lucy returned the gesture, her eyes reflecting a determination Angela hadn't seen in weeks. "Thanks, babe," she replied, using the nickname she'd taken to in recent days.

As Angela pulled back from the tender kiss she'd placed on Lucy's lips, she felt a familiar presence nearby. Turning to find Nyla standing there, eyes wide and mouth agape, "you two are together?" she asked shocked.

Angela couldn't help but chuckle nervously. "Um, hi Nyla," she greeted, feeling a flush rise to her cheeks. Lucy looked equally surprised, her hands fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. "Yeah, we...uh...we are,"

Angela confirmed, her heart pounding in her chest. She hadn't planned on making their relationship public so soon, but there was no denying the happiness that radiated from Lucy's face.

Nyla's shock quickly turned to a huge grin. "Oh my god, Angie!" she exclaimed, pulling her friend into a tight hug. "I'm so happy for you two!" Angela relaxed into the embrace, relieved at her best friend's positive reaction.

Over Nyla's shoulder, she caught sight of Tim watching them, a knowing look in his eyes. She'd have to tell him later - he deserved to hear it from her directly.

For now, though, she focused on Lucy, who was still beaming at her. This was a new chapter in their lives, one filled with love and support. And Angela couldn't wait to see where it would take them.

Tim approached them with a smirk, ruffling Angela's hair affectionately. "Well, well, well. Look who finally decided to come out of the closet," he teased, his voice filled with good humor.

Angela rolled her eyes, but couldn't suppress the smile that tugged at her lips. She'd known Tim for years - he was like family to her.

And while she hadn't exactly been hiding her sexuality, she also hadn't advertised it. Lucy blushed, her gaze dropping to the floor. *Please don't make this weird, Tim.* Angela thought, giving him a slight warning look.

He seemed to catch on, his expression softening as he turned to Lucy. "i guess i have to be nice to you now," he said, offering her a smile. Lucy laughed.

As they walked toward the briefing room together, Tim leaned in to Angela's ear. "Seriously though, I'm happy for you both," he whispered, giving her shoulder a squeeze.

Angela felt her heart swell with gratitude. Having her best friend's support meant the world to her - especially since Lucy's own family wasn't exactly accepting of their relationship.

She knew there would be challenges ahead, but with people like Nyla and Tim in their corner, she believed they could overcome anything.