IN THE OFFICE
The dim light of Mark's office cast long shadows across the room. Papers were scattered over the desk, case files stacked high, yet neither man seemed to pay them any mind. Mark sat back in his chair, arms crossed, while Alexander leaned against the desk, effortlessly poised, twirling a pen between his fingers.
The conversation had started normally—discussing recent cases, the city's growing unrest—but as always, it veered into deeper territory.
"It's funny when you think about it," Alexander mused, a smirk playing on his lips.
Mark raised an eyebrow. "What is?"
Alexander tapped the pen against the desk. "How similar my ideology is to yours... and even to Grim Reaper's."
Mark let out a sharp laugh. "You're joking, right?"
Alexander shrugged. "Think about it. Justice, in the end, is just perspective. You and I both eliminate threats for the greater good. Grim does the same—just in his own twisted way."
Mark shook his head, amused. "So what, are you saying we should all go grab drinks together? The three of us? 'The Cop, The Detective, and The Devil'—sounds like a terrible joke."
Alexander chuckled. "More like a philosophical debate over whiskey. Imagine the chaos."
Mark sighed, shaking his head. "You really enjoy dancing on that fine line, don't you?"
Alexander's sapphire-blue eyes gleamed. "I don't just dance, Mark. I redefine it."
ELSEWHERE – THE TEASING BEGINS
Meanwhile, in a quieter corner of the precinct, Rose sat at a desk, flipping through a file, trying desperately to focus.
She failed.
Because Darmian and Madison stood beside her, grinning like wolves.
"Sooooo, Rose," Madison drawled, leaning in slightly. "How's your oh-so-mysterious boyfriend?"
Rose's grip on the pen tightened. "He's fine."
Darmian smirked. "Just fine? That's not what we heard. We heard a certain detective has been whispering dangerously sweet things to you."
Rose's face turned red instantly. "W-Who told you that?!"
Madison gasped dramatically. "Oh my word, look at that blush! It's true, isn't it?"
Darmian crossed his arms. "Man goes from executing criminals to candlelight dinners. Talk about duality."
Madison nudged Rose playfully. "Sooo, tell us. What's it like dating the 'Devil's Gentleman'?"
Rose groaned, burying her face in her hands. "You two are impossible."
Darmian laughed. "Hey, we just like seeing you flustered."
Madison smirked. "And honestly? It's kinda nice seeing Alexander act like a human for once."
Rose sighed, shaking her head.
But despite her complaints… she was smiling.