Lieutenant Harper called the meeting to order, drawing Michelle's attention forward. The standard briefing commenced: updates on ongoing investigations, alerts about recent crime patterns, and administrative announcements. Michelle listened with half her attention, the rest focused on evaluating Jenna as a potential partner for the operation.
When Harper introduced the transfers, Michelle straightened, watching more intently.
"Detective Jenna Walsh comes to us from Coastal Heights Police Department," Harper announced. "Detective Walsh specialized in undercover operations and brings expertise in financial crimes and trafficking investigations. She'll be joining the Detective Division effective immediately."
Jenna stepped forward with a confident nod to the room. "I’m looking forward to working with you all," she said, her voicecarrying clearly without being forceful. "Coastal Heights was a great training ground, but I'm excited for the challenges Phoenix Ridge offers."
"Detective Walsh," interrupted Sergeant Leanne Cooper from the back, "Coastal Heights had that real estate scheme last year—Hudson Development. Were you involved in that takedown?"
Michelle watched with interest. The question was pointed, a test of the new arrival's credentials.
Jenna smiled slightly, turning to face Leanne directly. "I was the primary undercover operative in that case, yes. Spent seven months as a desk assistant to the financial controller, gathering evidence on their money laundering operation." Her posture remained relaxed, but Michelle noted the subtle shift in her demeanor—a quiet confidence that bordered on pride without crossing into arrogance. "It was a complex operation that taught me a lot about patience and improvisation."
"I heard the CFO's wife was the one running the whole show, but they couldn't get charges to stick," Leanne pressed.
Jenna's expression remained composed. "Initially, yes. Her accounts were well-shielded. But we eventually traced transactions through three shell companies back to her personal spending." She paused, then added with a hint of satisfaction, "She took a plea deal six weeks ago. Fifteen years, no possibility of parole for twelve."
Leanne nodded, apparently satisfied with the response. Michelle found herself impressed not just by the case result, but by how deftly Jenna had handled the questioning—providing enough detail to establish credibility without coming across as defensive or boastful.
More importantly, she'd maintained perfect cover for seven months in a high-stress environment. The PWC operation would require similar endurance and attention to detail.
The briefing continued, but Michelle's focus had narrowed. She observed Jenna throughout the meeting—how she listened attentively to case updates, the thoughtful questions she asked about department protocols, and the easy way she engaged with both superior officers and support staff. No artificial deference or posturing. Just quiet competence and genuine interest.
When the meeting concluded, Michelle caught Julia's eye and tilted her head slightly toward the conference room door. Julia nodded, following her into the hallway.
"So," Julia said once they were alone, "Walsh caught your attention."
"Her undercover experience is relevant," Michelle replied neutrally. "What else do you know about her background? Personal details, potential complications?"
Julia leaned against the wall, considering. "Single, from what I understand. Transferred here looking for more complex cases than Coastal Heights could offer. Former Lieutenant worked with her Academy instructor—said she has natural talent for undercover. Becomes whoever she needs to be, but doesn't lose herself in it." She paused. "That's rare, Michelle. Most either can't fully commit to the role or they get in too deep."
Michelle nodded slowly. Maintaining that balance was indeed rare—and exactly what she needed in a partner for this operation.
"Her psychological evaluations?" Michelle asked.
"Clean. Stable under pressure. Goal-oriented without being reckless." Julia studied Michelle's expression. "You're considering her for Natasha's spot in the PWC operation."
It wasn't a question. Michelle didn't bother denying it. "The timeline can't shift. We need someone who can step in with minimal prep."
"She'd need to be briefed immediately," Julia noted. "Chemistry test wouldn't hurt either."
Michelle raised an eyebrow.
"You'll be posing as a couple," Julia said bluntly. "If there's nothing between you, it won't work, no matter how good she is."
Michelle felt a flicker of discomfort. Julia was right, of course. The operation required a believable personal dynamic. But something about the thought of testing her "chemistry" with the attractive Jenna Walsh sparked an unexpected apprehension.
"I'll handle the assessment," Michelle said, more curtly than she'd intended. "Can you discreetly pull together more background on her? Previous cases, personal habits, anything that might impact her cover viability?"
Julia nodded, a knowing expression crossing her face that Michelle chose to ignore.
"Have her come to my office after she finishes processing in," Michelle said, already turning toward the elevator. "And Julia?"
"Yes?"
"Let's keep this between us for now. If she's not the right fit, I don't want to create unnecessary speculation."
"Understood," Julia replied, though her smile suggested she understood more than Michelle had said.
