"Behind the Badge"
Part 1
As I stepped out of the Gotham City subway, the bright sunlight reflecting off the skyscrapers was a harsh contrast to the gloomy feel of the city. I took a deep breath, mentally preparing myself for the interview that could change my life. I had always been fascinated by the world of detective work, and what better place to learn than the GCPD? I had applied for an internship in the detective's department, and today was the day I would find out if I got it. I made my way to the GCPD headquarters, my heart pounding in my chest. As I walked in, I was immediately struck by the bustling atmosphere. Officers and detectives rushed past me, their faces set with determination. I was greeted by a receptionist who checked her schedule before calling out my name. "Mia, you're here to see Lieutenant Bullock," she said with a warm smile. I nodded, standing up straight as I followed her to the elevators. We rode up to the fifth floor, and I was led to a large office with a stunning view of the city. Lieutenant Bullock, a tall, imposing figure with a stern expression, stood up from his desk. "Mia, welcome," he said, his voice firm but not unkind. "Please, take a seat." I sat down, trying to make a good impression as he began to ask me questions about my background and why I wanted to work in the detective's department. I answered confidently, highlighting my skills and experience. Just as I was starting to feel like I was acing the interview, the door burst open and a tall, lean figure strode in. His eyes scanned the room, locking onto me with an intensity that made my heart skip a beat. "Ah, Mia, this is Detective Jerome Valeska," Lieutenant Bullock said, a hint of a smile on his face. Jerome's gaze never left mine as he walked towards me, his eyes burning with curiosity. "The new intern," he said, his voice low and smooth. I felt a shiver run down my spine as he stood in front of me, his presence commanding attention. There was something about him that seemed...off, but I couldn't quite put my finger on it. "Nice to meet you, Detective," I said, trying to sound professional. Jerome's smile was quick and charming, but his eyes told a different story. "The pleasure is all mine, Mia," he said, his voice dripping with innuendo. Lieutenant Bullock cleared his throat, breaking the tension. "Jerome, I think we were in the middle of an interview." Jerome's gaze lingered on me for a moment before he turned to Lieutenant Bullock. "I apologize, Lieutenant. I'll let you finish the interview." As Jerome turned to leave, he brushed against me, his hand grazing mine. I felt a jolt of electricity run through my body, and I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to be touched by him again. The interview continued, but my mind kept wandering back to Jerome Valeska. There was something about him that drew me in, something that made me feel like I was in trouble. I knew that I had to be careful around him, but I couldn't shake the feeling that our paths would cross again. As the interview came to a close, Lieutenant Bullock stood up, a smile on his face. "Mia, I think you'd be a great fit for our team. We'll be in touch soon to let you know our decision." I stood up, feeling a sense of excitement and nervousness. As I left the office, I couldn't help but feel like my life was about to change in ways I couldn't imagine. And then, I heard a voice behind me. "Mia, wait." I turned to see Jerome standing in the doorway, his eyes locked onto mine. "Yes, Detective?" I asked, my heart pounding in my chest. Jerome's smile was slow and seductive. "I think we'll be working together very soon, Mia. And when we do, I promise you, it will be...enlightening." He turned and walked away, leaving me with more questions than answers.