Detective Gerard Stephens stood at the refreshment table, watching while others danced and talked to one another. Every year, he had been talked into attending the annual ball held for Gotham's police force. He was far more happier to be at the station, than to be watching couples dance.
"I take it you don't like the music either."
Gerard saw a woman, with red hair and wearing a silver evening gown, approaching him with two glasses of champagne.
"The music I can handle. I just never understand why we have to have this thing every single year."
"We have a tough job. It's good to unwind." The woman handed one of the glasses to Gerard.
"We?" Gerard repeated.
"Helen Coleman. Just started working at the station a week ago. I'm surprised I was invited at all."
Gerard shook Helen's hand. "Gerard Stephens. Detective."
"A pleasure." Helen sipped her champagne and turned her attention towards the crowd. "You sure have friendly faces here, detective. "
"A week's not enough time to see what Gotham's really like."
"What do you mean?" Helen asked.
Gerard shook his head slightly. "Nothing. Anyway, how come I've not met you yet?"
"Well, Commissoner Gordon wanted it to be a surprise."
"A surprise?"
"You see, I'm your new partner."
Helen clinked her glass against Gerard's, and walked away. While Gerard could only stand in his spot, in a state of shock.