“I never considered that. I just thought we’d bring her with us sometimes.”
She smiles. “I like that idea.”
Hallie follows me to the station. I check my rearview regularly, just to catch a glimpse of her.
We walk from our cars toward the station together.
Dustin shouts over, “You two are like little synchronized swimmers arriving right at the same time.”
I shout back, “Since when did punctuality become a crime?”
He catches up to us and walks in step. “Is that what the kids are calling it these days? I always just called it dating, myself.”
I send him a warning glare, which only serves to make him laugh.
“Don’t you call it dating, Hallie?” Dustin asks.
Thankfully, we’re at the kitchen door.
“I’m just playing with you two,” he says before we open the door.
“We know,” Hallie assures him. “It’s sweet.”
“I don’t know about sweet,” I say.
“Come on, Grey Grey. You think I’m sweet. Gimme a hug, buddy.” Dustin extends his arms and I walk past him into the kitchen. Hallie’s laugh follows me through the door.
The morning rolls forward with shift change, breakfast and equipment checks. We take a few midday calls. Then we’re back for dinner and some chores. We’re in the kitchen relaxing a few hours after dinner. I haven’t checked my email all day. I open the app on my laptop. One subject line catches my eye. I read it again:Official Offer of Employment – FEMA Office of Response and Recovery. A knot forms in my gut.
Dear Mr. Stone,
On behalf of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), I am pleased to extend to you a formal offer of employment with the Office of Response and Recovery.
After careful review of your experience and qualifications, we are confident that your background, skill set, and commitment to service make you an excellent fit for our mission to support communities before, during, and after disasters.
Position Title:Emergency Management Specialist
Office:Response and Recovery
Duty Location:Washington, DC
Start Date:TBD
This offer is contingent upon the successful completion of all pre-employment requirements, including background investigation, verification of credentials, and any applicable federal hiring documentation.
As part of our team, you will play a critical role in coordinating response efforts, supporting recovery operations, andhelping communities rebuild with resilience. Your contributions will directly impact lives across the nation.
Additional details regarding compensation, benefits, onboarding procedures, and required documentation will be provided in your official offer packet.
Please confirm your acceptance of this offer by replying to this email within five business days. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact our office directly.
We are excited about the possibility of you joining FEMA and contributing to our mission of helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Sincerely,
Barbara Sterling, Human Resources Division
Office of Response and Recovery
