Chapter Text
There was a new layer of dust collecting on the coffee maker, Charlie noticed, flicking the remains of it off her finger. No respect for the job at all, she thought, leaning against the counter.
What this constabulary was doing in her absence was an enigma — through the window she could clearly see all the constables faffing about, their chairs all gathered around one constable in particular reading the newspaper aloud.
Hearing the last drop of coffee, Charlie pulled out her cup with a long sigh and stepped out of the break room.
“Ah, lieutenant!” Constable Lazare spoke — the one in the middle, waved at her. “You’re just in time for my daily reading of the paper.”
She shot a glare. “No need. We can all read just fine.”
He’s already clearing his throat. “It’s July 13 of 1871, and! Bastille Day is tomorrow! There’s already photographs of the band and the decorations,” the constable spoke boisterously. Before she could open her mouth to protest, Lazare continued, “It's looking to be a good start for the Third Republic… And, ah! Take a look!” He grinned, showing the newspaper to everyone else. Some of them sighed in relief, two others cheered.
“Finally, reasonable working hours…”
“I can see my wife again after all these nights.”
Charlie raised her eyebrow, walking towards the commotion. “Constable, are you not going to continue?”
“No, sir,” Lazare said, handing the paper over. “You should read this part, petit Vergier.”
“That’s Lieutenant Vergier to you.” Charlie scoffed, grabbing the newspaper out of the constable’s hands. “And you will all get back to work once I do so,” she shouted out, particularly to the constables lazily walking to the break room.
After hearing their (unwilling) assent, she took one of the seats next to Constable Lazare.
“This just in,” Charlie began, unenthused. “Inspector General Paul Vergier of the Police Nationale reports that…”
She paused, gripping the newspaper tight.
“The famous art thief, Phantom R, has disappeared.”