Page 42 of Love in the Time of Wildfires

I’ve been dropping pins on maps, so maybe we can go for a hike when you’re feeling up to it.

Logan

Ok

It felt like their conversation was coming to a lull, and she was considering saying good night when another message popped up.

Logan

We might be home for a little bit of time. Our squad is attending some fancy event the city is putting on to honor wildland firefighters.

Oh nice. You guys work hard. You deserve it.

Logan

I think some people just do it because it makes them feel better. Doesn’t feel like we’re seen much beyond our occupation.

This was her first time hearing Logan speak about his job beyond normal surface-level stuff. She treaded carefully so he didn’t stop.

Do you not want to go then?

Logan

I can think of a hundred other things I’d rather be doing. But my boss is sort of making me, and I have to give a short speech because I’m getting an award. My parents will be there because my dad used to be in the industry. We don’t talk much these days.

Is it because of the job?

There could be a hundred different reasons someone might not have a close relationship with their parents, but this felt like a safe guess. While River got along fine with her folks, she wouldn’t say she was close to them, especially since they’ve been putting pressure on her to take Michael back and get married—like this would have solved everything. It wasn’t like the relationship she had with Mimi. Things were friendly and cordial but mostly careful, as though not wanting to start any new arguments. Sometimes family relationships could get complicated and weird.

Logan

Yeah.

It’s like he’s forgotten how much this job takes from you. He now believes that it’s all some kind of racket—like we’re out there starting fires.

Ah, got it.

The implication struck her in the heart. The guy needed more support, not less.

When is the event?

Logan

Next Sunday.

I don’t suppose you’d want to go.

Like a date?

Logan

No.

I don’t date. You don’t want to date me.

Oh. Okay.

Maybe I’ll bring a date then.