Chapter 1
July 2017
"Dad! I understand you want to help people, but isn't it dangerous?" Carina's voice was flat, almost resigned. She'd learned not to rely on anyone, not to get too attached. People left. It was a lesson she'd learned too many times. "I don't want to lose the only person I have left." The unspoken "again" hung in the air between them.
"I know, and I understand why you feel this way," Buck replied, his voice gentle. He understood the walls she'd built around her heart, the fear of abandonment that lurked beneath her tough exterior. "But Carina, I've finally found my passion. I've been training for the academy since we moved here."
"But Dad..." Carina started, her voice trembling.
"Carina," Buck interrupted softly, "firefighting is dangerous, but there are far more dangerous jobs. Think about deep-sea welding or working on high-voltage power lines – those have significantly higher fatality rates." He paused, taking her hand. "It's not about the danger, sweetheart. It's about being able to make a difference, about being there for people when they need help most. And I promise you, I'll do everything I can to stay safe."
Carina looks at her dad and sadly smiles, accepting his explanation. “How long are the shifts going to be?” Carina asks. “24 hours, with 48 hours off. I’m thinking of arranging a way for you to see me during those shifts.” Buck explains. “Really?”
"Yeah," Buck says, a small, reassuring smile playing on his lips. "I’m thinking I could arrange for you to come by the station for a bit, maybe grab lunch or something. I’ll talk to my captain. We’ll figure something out." He reached out, gently squeezing her shoulder.
"It won’t be the same as having me home, but it’s something." The reassurance in his voice, and the physical touch, helped to steady her.
”Okay, that…that would be nice.”