avy in the cab of the engine. My crew knew, they must have known, but

ng to me, a bitter reminder. My arm throbbed where a fres

fa, recounting her "harrowing experience" at the command post to my mo

voice distracted. "Dinner's almost r

fire, about my safety

enduring the stress" was the main topic, Mom found me in

the abduction, was now Chloe's elaborate "hobby r

neutral. "Your father and Eric are under

ait

Don't add to it with accusations. Chloe was very trau

ensitive. Words that never ap

career. My turnout gear, freshly cleaned, had been "accidentally" soaked

not having proper gear

t, and my parents had rushed to comfort h

where my small gift was overshado

were met with a nod, while Chloe's C-grade

w, cold dread seeping into my bones. They wouldn't jus

Eric dismissed as clumsiness