This is my first venture into Adam-12 fanfiction. I've written fanfiction for a long time now, my start being in Emergency! Fanfiction, many years ago. Since, I've written in Lord of the Rings, and most notably in Stargate: Atlantis. Lately, Adam-12 has piqued my interest. Not surprising considering my love for Emergency! Will I write more? I think so. But in the meantime, this vignette struck me when re-watching the pilot.
Maybe
"They're gonna burn!"
Reed was out instantly. Cruiser wasn't even in park. I confess, I was surprised. I'd seen rookies freeze. Rookies that went on to be good cops. Rookies that didn't. Rookies that….
But in a split second, he was out and a split second can make all the difference in this job. He knows that. He's been told that, had it drilled into his head. All rookies can recite the words, not all of them have the instinct.
I was ready to back him up, direct him on what to do next, but I didn't have to, he just did it. His first high speed chase. His first encounter with dangerous suspects. He didn't hesitate. His voice was strong and direct, ordering them out of the car. Those two would've never guessed that it was his first day on the job. He had presence, more than I'd seen in any probie before him especially on day one. For the second time in as many minutes, I was surprised.
Maybe, maybe he has what… My mind turns away from that thought. Focus on the suspects.
"You guys play rough, don't ya?" one of the suspects grumbled.
Never mind this guy could've killed someone with his suicidal driving, I wasn't in the mood for it. "You were doing the driving."
Reed is silent, focusing on his job, doing everything by the book with cool efficiency.
Maybe… my mind again wanders over insistent thoughts I mistakenly assumed I'd put aside. Maybe he has what it takes. Just needs the tough experiences on the beat to season him…
… and a veteran to teach him.
I almost wince. Almost. I can't do it again, watch a bright, young probie's future end in a flash of a muzzle shot.
If Reed was going to make it as an officer, it'd be thanks to someone else. I'd done my part and I'd have to live with that the rest of my life. I can't do it again.
But I can't help but notice. The potential is there. Sure, he wears the uniform right, but there's more to him. A lot more. Through my hardened resignation to leave the force, I can't help but think…
All he needs is someone to guide him.