Page 31 of Too Much Heat

“Could have been a kid’s prank.”

“My neighbors are great. But Ididthink it was a prank. Then I was summoned to the chief’s office. Someone called him and said me and the female firefighter on my group were having an affair.”

“Shit Joe. You know better than that.”

“It’s not true, Chief.”

Lara was glad he didn’t tell the chief that they hugged. And it got sexual.

“One more thing. My windshield was smashed outside of Pathways.”

“Shit!” Then, “Do you think one of the boys at the school did it?”

“They were in class with me. And now, somebody blows up the stove with an incendiary device?”

“What are you saying, Joe?”

Lara knew before he answered. Joe had a stalker.

* * *

When the fire chief arrived, he spoke with Thomas then said, “Fuck. An incendiary device? You got crap luck, Romano.”

“Maybe.”

“Where is it?”

“Chief Thomas’ guy took it to the bomb squad.”

Hansen swore again. “You should have waited for me before calling the police.”

“But you didn’t bring along the arson guys. Mick had a bomb specialist with him.” Joe raised his chin. “I think I made the right decision.”

The chief glared at Joe. “Watch what you say, Romano.”

He didn’t respond. Just then everybody came out to the common room and Lara moved near them.

“What’s going on?” Abe asked.

“Let’s all go sit. We have to talk.”

When they were situated, the chief leaned against the fireplace. Crossed his arms. “The stove blew because there was an incendiary device in the oven.”

“What?”

“Holy hell.”

“Fuck.”

Lara didn’t react.

“When I got the call, the mayor was in my office. He said your group should go home today.” Hansen angled his head to the kitchen. “And take a couple days off while work is done out there. Forensics need to check the whole house and then the kitchen needs to be cleaned, painted, and of course we have to get a new stove. Your ability to reach the bay is compromised.”

“Not to mention we could be in danger.” Gabe was the first to deduce the notion.

“I was about to say that Connors. I’ll have the arson squad investigate.” He continued. “If the repairs aren’t done in two days, I’ll assign each of you to another fire station until it is.”

Joe watched Lara. Her face reddened. He knew she wouldn’t want that. She’d have to go through the hazing of a rookie again.

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