*Noland’s POV*
As Lexie and I step into the sterile, fluorescent-lit lobby of the police station, an uneasy tension coils in my chest. She clutches my arm, her fingers trembling ever so slightly. I can feel her fear radiating off her like a feverish heat, and I can't help but be drawn to her vulnerability.
"May I help you?" The officer behind the front desk glances up from his paperwork, his gaze flicking between me and Lexie. My presence seems to unsettle him - something I've grown used to over the years.
"Officer Connor is expecting us," I inform him, my voice steady despite the roiling emotions within me. He nods curtly and directs us down a narrow hallway towards the office of the officer in charge.
"Mr. Reynolds, Ms. Montgomery, please come in." Officer Connor greets us with a warm smile as he opens the door to his cramped office. Lexie gives him a hesitant smile in return.
"Please, have a seat," Officer Connor gestures to the two chairs facing his cluttered desk.