Page 40 of Love in the Time of Wildfires

Yes. And no, that isn’t my nickname. This is one I’ve had since I was a baby. My family had no idea foxes would eventually become my favorite animal.

Logan

Please just tell me.

Why are you so interested in my secrets?

Logan

I’m already holding several secrets of yours. What’s one more?

You take care of yourself, be extra safe tomorrow, and I’ll tell you then. Gives you something to look forward to.

Logan

You’re back to being aggravating.

Logan

Okay, I’m here. Made it through another work shift unharmed.

How are you doing? How’s the crew?

Logan

I’m fine. They’re good. It’s tough, but that’s normal. Everything is fine.

And you’re remembering to take care of yourself, right? If you need a break and would rather sleep than talk to me, it’s okay.

Logan

Are you going to tell me the damn nickname or not?

Not if you’re going to get snippy about it. Lol.

Logan

River. Please.

He was imploring her, begging. She had no idea she’d like it so much. She considered milking it a few more days until he couldn’t take it anymore and would leave the state of Washington in order to beg her in person. It was a fun fantasy to play out in her mind. Except she’d made a promise, and River always kept her word.

Potato

Logan

What?

I was born early. I was a preemie. And my parents said I was cute and small like a potato, so that’s what most of my family calls me. Except for Mimi because she knows it’s not my favorite. She might be the person who I like the best in my family. There’s probably a lesson in there if you can find it.

Logan

I will never call you potato.

Okay! See? I knew I liked you for a reason. I’d much rather have a cooler one. I like yours. Sonny. I always wanted people to call me by my last name. Hey, Alfaro! People who refer to each other by their last names are always cool. Does that happen a lot in the firefighting industry? Maybe I should change professions.

Logan

Can I confess something to you? It feels fair since you revealed your embarrassing nickname.