EPISODE 3

The next morning, the LAPD squad room buzzed with quiet energy as officers gathered for the start of their shift. The scent of fresh coffee mingled with the low murmur of voices, the clatter of gear, and the occasional rattle of keys. The worn walls, plastered with wanted posters, procedure memos, and training schedules, seemed to hold the weight of years of service.

At the front, Sergeant 3 Marcus Hayes stood tall and confident, commanding the room’s attention with a firm clap of his hands. Beside him, Sergeant 1 Riley Hartman stood with quiet authority, her sharp gaze scanning the assembled officers.

“Alright, listen up,” Sergeant Hayes began, his voice steady but commanding. “Let’s start with the updates before we assign partners. This is important — so pay attention.”

Officers straightened, some nodding respectfully at Riley as their senior. The room included rookies fresh from the academy, seasoned patrol officers, and a handful of Field Training Officers.

“Vehicle break-ins have risen in the Wilshire district,” Hayes announced. “Lock your cars, report anything unusual. No heroics, call for backup.”

Officer Ramirez, a veteran detective, spoke up, addressing both Sergeant Hayes and Riley with respect. “Sergeant Hayes, Sergeant Hartman, any leads on the suspects?”

Hayes nodded toward Riley.

Riley stepped forward, her voice calm but firm. “Mostly opportunistic youths. Patrol presence is being increased. Be vigilant but cautious.”

Officer Jenkins, a patrol officer with a dry humor, grinned slightly. “Been some muggings downtown too. Are those connected?”

Riley shook her head. “No confirmed link yet, but we’re increasing foot patrols. Stay alert.”

Sergeant Hayes added, “Bodycam use is mandatory on all stops and searches. No exceptions. We’ve had incidents with missing footage. That stops now.”

Officer Morales, known for his easy smile and sharp wit, chuckled softly. “Knock one down, and three more spring up.”

The room echoed with quiet laughter.

Officer Patel, sitting near the back, cleared his throat. “Sergeant Hayes, traffic backups on the 101 are killing response times.”

Hayes sighed. “Construction is citywide. Dispatch will keep you updated on alternate routes.”

Riley added, “With the holidays coming, expect more domestic disturbance calls. Approach carefully and de-escalate when possible.”

Officer Jenkins smirked. “Easy for you to say, Sergeant Hartman. Some folks don’t want to listen.”

Riley met his eyes evenly. “That’s why we have backup. Stay calm and professional.”

A respectful murmur ran through the room.

Sergeant Hayes then flipped through his notes. “Now, partner assignments. Listen up.”

He called out names clearly, pausing to let pairs acknowledge each other.

“Officer Ramirez and Officer Morales, you’re partners today.”

A pair of nods and murmured acknowledgments.

“Officer Jenkins, you’ll be with Officer Patel.”

More nods.

“Officer Daniel, you’re paired with rookie Officer Lee.”

Heads turned toward Daniel, who gave a firm nod. The rookie beside him looked slightly nervous but smiled.

Sergeant Hayes continued, “Daniel has been doing excellent work mentoring rookies. That pairing should help.”

Riley’s gaze swept the room as Hayes spoke.

Hayes looked directly at Riley. “Sergeant Hartman, your partner is on his way — a new Officer 2 recently transferred from another precinct. Until he arrives, you’re on standby.”

Riley nodded curtly. “Understood, Sergeant.”

Several officers exchanged curious glances, whispering quietly about the new transfer.

Officer Jenkins leaned in slightly. “New blood, huh? Hope he’s up to speed.”

Riley’s expression remained unreadable. “We’ll see.”

Sergeant Hayes scanned the room. “Any questions before we wrap?”

Officer Lee raised a hand. “How long till the new officer arrives, Sergeant Hayes?”

“Any minute now,” Hayes replied. “Keep your radios on.”

Officer Morales added with a grin, “Maybe he’s the one who’ll finally sort out the Crowley mess.”

Laughter rippled softly.

After a few more reminders on radio protocol, paperwork, and safety, Sergeant Hayes concluded. “Alright, that’s all for roll call. Stay alert and watch each other’s backs.”

As officers began gathering their gear, several approached Riley quietly, nodding or offering respectful words.

Officer Ramirez approached with a slight bow of his head. “Sergeant Hartman, if you need backup, just say the word.”

Riley nodded in thanks. “Appreciated.”

Daniel came over, standing a respectful few feet away. “Sergeant, if you need anything before your partner arrives, I’m here.”

She gave a brief nod. “Thanks, Daniel”

Few minutes later, the squad room was mostly empty now, the last few officers filing out as Sergeant Hayes turned toward Riley. He smiled lightly, attempting to break the tension lingering after the roll call.

“You’ll be working with someone new today,” Hayes said casually, folding his arms. “He’s got a lot of potential—smart, driven, and eager to learn.”

Riley’s eyes narrowed. “If he’s so great, then why hasn’t he shown up yet? We’re almost ten minutes past time. Being late isn’t exactly a good look for someone newly transfered.”

Hayes shrugged, unfazed. “Adjusting to a new precinct can take time. He’s not used to the layout yet, but I’m confident he’ll be here soon.”

Riley’s voice hardened. “That’s not the point. A new officer should respect the rules. He’s just an Officer 2, right? Acting like he owns the place by being late.”

Hayes sighed and met her gaze steadily. “I won’t lie—he’s related to me. That’s why I wanted you paired with him.”

Riley blinked in disbelief. “Related to you? So that’s why you’re shoving him on me? Because he’s family?”

Hayes raised his hands placatingly. “It’s not about favoritism. He needs guidance, and you’re the best for the job. He’ll learn more from you than anyone else here.”

Riley’s jaw tightened as she crossed her arms. “I’m not here to be anyone’s teacher or babysitter. He can’t just show up late and expect me to cover for him.”

Hayes took a step closer, lowering his voice. “Nathan West is new here, yes, but he’s got a good head on his shoulders. If anyone can make him a solid officer, it’s you.”

“Maybe,” Riley snapped, “but right now, he’s just some late Officer 2 who thinks he can skate by because of who he knows.”

Hayes held her gaze, unwavering. “You’ll see. Give him a chance to prove himself. You’re tough, and that’s exactly why he needs to be with you.”

Riley let out a slow breath, the fire in her eyes dimming just a bit. “Fine. But if he shows up late again or acts like he’s better than his rank, I’m not sugarcoating it.”

Hayes smiled faintly. “Fair enough. But I’m counting on you both.”

Riley looked away, then back, voice softer but resolute. “He better show up soon.”

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