#Tarlos Fanfiction One-shots

Under Your Protection III

Chapter 3: Above and Beyond

The Texas Rangers precinct buzzed with renewed intensity. Ever since the cartel had crossed the line by threatening Carlos' family, every single Ranger was determined to see justice served. Campbell, leading the investigation alongside Carlos, had become a force of nature—tireless, methodical, and deeply committed to bringing down those responsible.

As Rangers moved swiftly around the precinct, several paused to check on Carlos, aware of the heavy weight on his shoulders. 

"How are you holding up, Reyes?" asked Ranger Diaz, clapping a supportive hand briefly on Carlos' shoulder as he passed. 

Carlos offered a small, grateful nod. "Hanging in there. Appreciate you checking in." 

Another Ranger called from his desk, "We've got your back, Carlos. We'll get these bastards." 

Carlos felt warmth in the solidarity of his team, comforted by the unspoken promise of protection that bound them together.

The evening before, Campbell had called TK, gently explaining that they needed Jonah's help identifying the suspect. After laying out the details clearly and reassuringly, Campbell paused, his voice softening. "TK, how are you and Jonah doing? I know this isn't easy." 

TK had sighed deeply, gratitude evident in his tone. "We're okay, Sam. Shaken up, but we trust you and Carlos. Thank you so much for everything you're doing to keep our family safe." 

Campbell's voice was gentle but firm, "Carlos is like my brother. I'd do anything for family—you and Jonah included. We're going to see this through, I promise."

The precinct was bustling early when TK arrived hand-in-hand with Jonah. Carlos was already there, waiting anxiously by Campbell's desk. The moment Jonah spotted his Papa, he ran straight into Carlos' open arms, giggling as Carlos scooped him up and planted a loud, playful kiss on his cheek. 

"Hi, Papa!" Jonah exclaimed, hugging him tightly. 

Carlos smiled warmly, his anxiety easing slightly. "Hey, mijo. You ready to help us out today?" Jonah nodded seriously, putting on his bravest face.

Inside the interview room, Campbell knelt down to Jonah's level, smiling warmly to make him comfortable. "Hey, buddy. We need your help today, okay? I'm going to show you some pictures, and you tell me if you see the man who gave you ice cream." 

Jonah's eyes widened earnestly. "Okay, Uncle Sam."

Campbell carefully laid out several photographs on the table in front of Jonah. Jonah studied them seriously, his tiny face scrunched in deep thought. After a few tense moments, his finger landed decisively on one image. "This one! He's the ice cream man," Jonah declared confidently. Campbell glanced triumphantly at Carlos, who exhaled slowly in relief. The Rangers in the room exchanged meaningful, determined looks. They finally had their man.

After the identification, several Rangers eagerly gathered around Jonah, knowing he deserved some lighthearted attention after the tense ordeal. Ranger Diaz playfully handed Jonah his badge, pretending to deputize him. "Deputy Jonah Morgan reporting for duty!" Jonah giggled loudly, proudly holding the badge high. 

Another Ranger, Martinez, carefully placed his oversized Ranger hat onto Jonah's small head, laughing at how it comically covered Jonah's eyes. Jonah dramatically pushed the hat up, grinning widely. "Look, Papa! I'm a Ranger just like you!"

Campbell chuckled softly, joining in by lifting Jonah up onto his shoulders and giving him a playful tour around the bullpen. Jonah happily waved to everyone, thoroughly charmed by all the attention. TK watched the interactions with a relieved, grateful smile, his heart swelling with appreciation as he saw how genuinely Carlos' team cared for their family—especially Jonah.