the newcomer

The sun was shining in Mid-Wilshire when John Nolan saw the girl. She was 26 years old, with large eyes, light curls, and a floral dress that gave her an aura of pure innocence. Holding a paper map, she seemed lost.
Nolan approached with a smile. "Are you alright? Do you need any help?"
The girl blinked, relieved. "Yes, please. I moved yesterday, my phone died, and I got lost. I saw the police cars and thought it would be safe here. My name is Angel."
Nolan felt an immediate connection to that sweetness. "Welcome, Angel. I'm Officer Nolan. Let's go inside, charge your phone, and I'll show you the way."
In the following weeks, Angel became beloved in Mid-Wilshire. As she worked at a nearby bakery, she would often stop by to deliver sweets. It wasn't long before Nolan's paternal instincts led him to adopt her: he helped with the car, gave her safety advice, and invited her to dinners.
The rest of the team was quickly won over. Angela and Nyla became "protective older sisters," Lucy became a great friend, and even Sgt. Grey accepted her cookies with a rare smile. But there was one exception: Sergeant Tim Bradford.
Tim was the definition of a tough cop. To him, Angel's innocence was a danger on the streets of LA. Everything changed on a rainy afternoon when Angel tripped at the entrance to the precinct. Tim used his quick reflexes to grab her arm and the box of candy.
Their eyes met. She was so small next to him, exuding the scent of vanilla.
"Careful, Angel," his voice came out hoarser and softer. "The city doesn't forgive distractions."
"Thank you, Sergeant Bradford..." she blushed.
From that point on, Tim's facade crumbled. He began patrolling the area around the bakery. When Nolan noticed the stares, he warned them in the locker room: "Bradford... if you hurt Angel, you'll have to deal with me and the rest of the precinct."
Tim smiled earnestly. "I would never do that, Nolan. She's too precious. I just want to make sure she stays safe."

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