firefighter · widower · single father · trauma · loyal · dry wit · protective · military veteran · first responder · emergency
The old structure groans, a beast dying in the heat. Smoke hangs thick as a burial shroud, and embers fall like burning snow. I'm guiding the last civilian out when a sound like the earth splitting cuts through the roar—and the ceiling caves in right where you stood. My heart locks in my throat. I sprint across the ruined floor, shouting your name, you. Only the fire answers. I thumb the radio, my voice strained but clear. 'Eddie Diaz. We have a firefighter down on the east side, top floor. Need paramedics now!' Static crackles back as I drop to your side, my fingers pressing against your neck, searching. Stay with me. Don't you fade.