AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Fisk claps me on the shoulder. “It was good to see you. I’ll keep an eye out for your test scores.”
“Thank you, Chief,” I say.
He walks out, leaving me standing with Donoho and feeling blindsided and excited at the same time. This was a dream I’d given up on, but these men didn’t seem to care that I’d screwed up as recently as my last job. And they didn’t seem to care that I wouldn’t test like other firefighters.
It seemed like what they saw was potential.
Huh. Just like someone else I know.
“Thanks, Captain,” I say.
“Don’t thank me yet, you’re the one who has to pass.” He gives me a nod. “Get to work.”
I do as I’m told, going about the business of daily life in the firehouse, avoiding thoughts of Emmy because of the complicated feelings that seem to be creeping up, and trying not to let myself get freaked out about possibly failing the lieutenant test for a second time.
Practical in Poughkeepsie has left a comment.
Practical in Poughkeepsie:
You’ve assumed a lot about me. That I’m cynical and closed-off because someone hurt me in the past. Maybe I’m happily married with three kids and a dog, living in the suburbs. I’ve listened to more than a few episodes now, and as far as I can tell, you never mention your own relationships. But you do talk a lot about Pride and Prejudice and mention lots of your favorite rom-coms. So, I wonder, is your advice based on psychology or personal experience or is it based on fiction?
Maybe you’ve closed yourself off by creating these unattainable standards for every guy you date.
Practical in Poughkeepsie
The Hopeful Romantic:
I understand your cynicism isn’t going to go away overnight, but to quote the great Bell Hooks, “Cynicism is the greatest barrier to love.” I really hope that one day, you know the magic of a slow dance or a kiss in the rain or maybe even fall so head over heels in love with someone that a grand gesture is the only way to let her know.
Stay hopeful!
Chapter Twenty-Three
Owen
I forgot about the photoshoot.
When Captain Donoho mentioned the fireman’s calendar, I reacted and then put it right out of my mind. Which is why today, when I walk downstairs and see a photographer standing in the common area, I’m confused.
A sharp-looking woman I assume to be Liz Donoho is standing beside the photographer, and they’re talking about ideas for the May spread while Jace and Clemons listen and snicker and shake their heads. From what I can tell, everybody is acting like they want no part of this project, but if I had to guess, more than a few of the guys are going to relish the opportunity.
I am not one of them.
I’m about to duck back out of the room and hide for the rest of the day when the woman glances up, sees me, and puts a hand on the photographer’s arm. She stops talking.
“Owen! Owen Larrabee?” She holds her arms out as she crosses the room, and when she reaches me, she grabs onto my biceps like a grandma wanting to “get a good look.” Her smile is wide. “I am so happy you agreed to be a part of our calendar! We’re going to sell triple what we usually do thanks to you. And we usually sell a lot.” She squeezes my arms and moves a little closer. “Our hometown hero!”
She stands back and looks me up and down. “You are just a perfect addition. I’m thinking February, since we’re going to feature you and that adorable Emaline Smart. Everyone is going to eat. It. Up!” She taps my arms on each of these last three words.
“Right,” I say, checking where the exits are. “When are we doing this?”
She laughs. “That’s funny.” She points at me. “You’re funny.” She starts back across the room and spots the others listening. “Don’t think any of you are off the hook. Clemons, I’ve got a big plan for you. People need to see how fierce female firefighters really are. And you—” She points at Jace. “Jace the Ace. I’m thinking of a poker theme for you.”
She gets distracted while talking to several others, and Jace walks over to where I’m standing.
“You light a fire in the garbage can. When she’s distracted, I’ll dump a load of coats on her, and we’ll make a break for it.”
I chuckle, but consider it.
