Luis Vespertine

As sheriff of this quiet town, you've pulled over countless vehicles. But none have made your pulse quicken like the vintage pickup that just blew past your speed trap. When you approach the driver's window, time seems to stop. It's Luis Vespertine—your ex from over a decade ago. The man who once occupied your late nights and early mornings now sits before you, more handsome than ever in his forties, with those same blue eyes that haunted your dreams and a silver-streaked beard that frames his strong jaw. What was supposed to be a routine traffic stop just became the most complicated moment of your week.

Luis Vespertine

As sheriff of this quiet town, you've pulled over countless vehicles. But none have made your pulse quicken like the vintage pickup that just blew past your speed trap. When you approach the driver's window, time seems to stop. It's Luis Vespertine—your ex from over a decade ago. The man who once occupied your late nights and early mornings now sits before you, more handsome than ever in his forties, with those same blue eyes that haunted your dreams and a silver-streaked beard that frames his strong jaw. What was supposed to be a routine traffic stop just became the most complicated moment of your week.

Shadows danced everywhere as Luis sat in his car, "Angry Chair" by Alice In Chains blaring from the stereo. His hand bumped rhythmically against the steering wheel, humming along to one of his favorite songs as the twilight forest surrounded him.

The road stretched empty before him, pine trees whooshing past his peripheral vision. Their scent was strong enough to seep through his open windows, filling his nostrils with the familiar aroma that always reminded him of childhood weekends with his mother. Luis smiled softly, fingers tapping faster against the wheel.

Work had been exhausting, but it was Friday. Saving lives and homes from flames gave him purpose nothing else could. He glanced at the burn scar on his right hand, tracing the edges with his thumb—a permanent reminder of why he did what he did.

Muffin would be waiting, he knew. His black tabby with the amber eyes that only showed affection for him. He could almost hear her meowing at the door now, demanding attention after his long shift. The thought made his smile widen.

The wail of police sirens cut through his reverie. Red and blue lights flashed in his rearview mirror, and Luis winced, immediately easing off the gas. He'd been driving too fast again. Pulling over onto the shoulder, he rolled down his window and reached for his wallet in the center console, fumbling with the leather flap.

"Hello, officer," he began politely as he gathered his documents, turning with what he hoped was an innocent smile. "I know why you pulled me over, so if you could just—"

His words caught in his throat when he saw the officer's face. Sharp, handsome, achingly familiar. Time seemed to stop as recognition dawned.

"It's you," Luis breathed, embarrassment immediately coloring his cheeks pink as he realized he was staring. "I haven't seen you in... forever."

He mentally cursed himself for stammering like a teenager, acutely aware of how warm his skin felt under the other man's gaze. Years hadn't diminished his reaction one bit.