Not to be outdone, Alex pulls Tuesday into his arms, nuzzling her hair. It’s clear why he calls her Sunny T. His face glows whenever that girl is near.
A pang of jealousy tugs at the hollow within my chest as I observe my friends with their girlfriends. As much as I’ve tried to stay focused on my career, it’s times like this when I have to admit my job can’t fill this void. That yearning to have someone to come home to at the end of a long shift taunts me.
But I’ve been there, done that, and have the scars to prove it. It’s clear the universe has other plans for me. No sense fighting it.
Even if watching my friends stokes the fire of my loneliness.
“Hey, Jason, you got a minute?”
Jumping at the large, warm hand on my shoulder, I turn to find the imposing presence of Chief Roberson behind me. “Hey, Chief. When did you sneak in? Did the word get out that Dave was in the kitchen?” I give his hand a firm shake, my curiosity more than a little piqued at his unexpected visit.
Everyone quickly turns from the TV. The Battalion Chief’s arrival is met by a chorus of hellos from my firefighter brothers. There are more of us in attendance given the game is on and Dave’s whipping up his famous chili.
“Something like that.” His voice rumbles with a slight chuckle, but the humor doesn’t reach his eyes.
What the hell?Has something happened?
I hastily follow him through the kitchen. Dave’s brows furrow together as we pass by.
“Save me a bowl, will you, Dave?” The Chief tosses over his shoulder. His casual tone should relax me.But, nope.
Once we reach the office, the Chief takes a seat, and I quickly lower myself to the chair facing the large wooden desk. It somehow seems more imposing whenhe’ssitting behind it. Taking a slow inhale, I anxiously await the reason for his visit, feeling like a child who’s been called into the principal’s office.
“Sorry to interrupt.”
I laugh nervously. “No, you did me a favor. My team was losing spectacularly.” At least that debacle seems less painful with this impromptu meeting.
Chief Roberson leans back in his chair, running his fingertips along the salt and pepper whiskers on his chin. “How long have you worked here, Lieutenant?”
“Going on six years, sir.”
Where’s he going with this?
There’s no doubt he’s fully aware of my tenure. Battalion Chief Roberson is as good as it gets. But his rank alone makes me appreciate the seriousness of this conversation.
“As I recall, you dove in headfirst once you arrived to station 12. You’ve made quite the name for yourself here. You were promoted to lieutenant about two years ago, correct?”
“Yes, sir.” I’m still shocked I was afforded the ability to apply for that position. Most of the firefighters I knew back in my hometown had to wait until they’d worked five to six years before they had the same opportunity. But in this mountain town environment, where few fire stations cover a large area, the turnover can create a need for dedicated men to be promoted sooner.
Sitting taller in my seat, I feel a sense of pride that my hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Once I moved to Sycamore Mountain, my career was my top priority. I continued my EMS training, obtaining my paramedic license as well as attending any search and rescue classes available. As a lieutenant it’s my responsibility to supervise the men in my department, ensuring we’re prepared for any situation. There’s a lot of education and safety demonstrations to manage.
“Hank Fowler advised he’d be taking retirement within the next ninety days.”
“The Assistant Chief?”
“Yes.” Chief Roberson pauses, his expression taking on more of a benevolent visage. “His wife has been undergoing chemotherapy for her second battle with breast cancer, and he’d like to be home.”
“Hell, I’m sorry to hear that.”
“Linda’s a lovely woman. She doesn’t deserve the hand she’s been dealt.” He looks away momentarily before continuing. “But rather than recruit for Hank’s position, Chief Morton would like to promote our current staff and transfer a new lieutenant. That is, if you’re interested in applying for captain?”
“Interested?” I sit taller, shaking my head in astonishment.Is this really happening?“Heck yes. I’m honored for the opportunity, sir.”
Battalion Chief Roberson abruptly stands from the chair and makes his way around the desk, his hand outstretched in my direction. “Well, I’m relieved to hear it, Lieutenant. I ask that you keep this between us for now. But I’ll be back in touch soon.”
“Yes, sir. Thank you for considering me.”
“There’s no one else I feel is better suited for the job, Jason. Just be ready to step in within the next six to eight weeks so we can make a smooth transition when the time comes.”
