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I stay quiet, stewing a little.
“I hear everything, Larrabee,” he says. “Everything. Including what Lawrence said to you. Listen, I’m not going to condone fighting, but his personality is not what I’m looking for in a lieutenant.”
I stand a little straighter.
“But I’m not looking for someone who can’t control his temper either.”
I give him a nod. “Understood, Captain.”
He holds my attention for a few long seconds, then picks up a large, white envelope and hands it to me. “Your study materials.”
Instantly, something inside me twists, but I take the packet.
“This packet has been specially prepared for you. There are three phases to the lieutenant test. I don’t think you’ll have a problem with the tactical exercises or even the oral board exam. The closed book multiple choice is what could trip you up. So, I’ve arranged for this test to be administered orally. And privately.”
“Sir, I—”
“I want you to pass, Larrabee,” he interrupts. “And I know you can. I think you’ll make an excellent lieutenant, and frankly, I need more guys like you.”
It’s hard for me not to burst out and thank him. I just grit my teeth and keep it in—but it feels pretty darn good.
The chief leans back in his chair. “Study those materials. There are flashcards online and practice tests inside.” He nods at the packet. “There’s a study group or you can find a study partner, someone to quiz you on this stuff so you know it better than you know your own name. Most guys study six months to a year, but I don’t think you’ll need that long. You let me know when you’re ready, and we’ll get the test set up.” He eyes me. “With accommodations.”
I turn the packet over in my hand, feeling the weight of gratitude. It’s exponential because it feels so undeserved.
I hesitate, then speak up. “Sir, if I can ask. . .” I pause, fiddling with the flap on the envelope. “Why are you doing this? Most people in authority, well. . .” I take a breath. “In my experience most people wouldn’t care enough to do all this.”
The captain smirks at me. “I think I see a little of myself in you, Larrabee. Hot-headed. Stubborn.” He looks off to the left, and with an exaggerated tone, adds, “Ruggedly handsome.”
I chuckle.
“I was a wreck till Liz got her hands on me. She calmed me down.”
My thoughts turn to Emmy.
“The love of a good woman cannot be underestimated.” He laughs.
“Even a woman you don’t deserve?”
His expression changes and his eyebrows shoot up.
“Oh! Not talking about you and Liz, sir.”
He pauses, then realizes. “Ah. You’re talking about that bookstore owner.”
I frown.
“Liz is a sucker for a love story,” he says. “Said you two got awfully cozy during your photo shoot.”
I shake my head. “Emmy is. . .a friend.”
“Yeah, I said that about Liz once upon a time.” He smirks. “You aren’t exactly an open book, but you sure do look miserable.”
I ignore the comment. “Thanks for the packet.”
“Get to work.”
I nod, and as I’m about to walk out the door, the captain says my name again. I turn.
