Page 18 of Rescued Duty

He despised people searching for ways to intimidate others. It had happened too often in his foster care days.

Too often to Naya.

Until…

He shook his head.

“Don’t try to cheat now, dude.”

“He’s not evening watching. Probably thinking ’bout a girl.” They snickered.

Zack ignored their comments.

Ever since seeing Naya again, his past haunted him. He needed to share all the details with her, but it wouldn’t change the outcome. What had happened couldn’t be reversed, and he was to blame.

Yet there was a part of him that hoped she’d forgive him once she understood everything. Zack fingered the red bracelet on his wrist, the cord moving in a circular motion.

Except, Zack wouldn’t stir the pot and cause problems unless Naya asked for his help. And the likelihood of that happening was slim. Given he wouldn’t even put the two of them in the friend category anymore.

More like acquaintances.

She said she’d talk with her boss. Zack trusted her to do what was best. He could follow up later to make sure everything had been resolved.

Until then, he had other matters to focus on. Like showing Karson and the other boys the ins and outs of being a firefighter.

Every other week, Zack spent a few hours with some of the boys that his friends the Kirbys were fostering. He took the teens out to lunch, where they chatted about life, then he brought them back to the firehouse to get firsthand experience as a firefighter. Depending on Zack’s schedule, he or Sam Kirby would give the boys a ride back to their house when they were finished for the day.

The opportunity to invite these guys to the firehouse had become a great way for Zack to mentor the teens and show them Jesus while instilling in them the importance of serving the community.

“All set, Captain.” Karson slipped on the helmet and gave a thumbs-up.

Zack folded his arms. “I’m not a captain, kid.”

His stopwatch beeped, and the other two boys had just grabbed their helmets.

“Nice work, guys.” Zack clapped. “You’re making good time with the practice.”

“When are we going to put out a real fire training scenario?” Andrew removed his helmet and frowned.

“As soon as I think you’re ready.” Zack gave him a slap on the shoulder. “Which might be next time you’re here.”

“All right.” The boys clapped in unison and fist-bumped each other. “We’re totally gonna qualify for the summer wildlands firefighting camp.”

“Don’t forget the groundwork is important, though. You have to know your stuff and work as a team.” Zack grinned. He appreciated their enthusiasm, which would make this next exercise entertaining.

“Who’s on cleaning duty today?” Carlos chimed in while he unzipped his turnout gear and stepped out of his boots.

“All of you. I want it scrubbed, cleaned, and restocked.”

“Yes, sir.” Karson nodded. “We’ll have it shiny red for the festival in a few days.”

“That’s what I like to hear.” The boys would join Zack for the New Blooms Spring Festival and get to ride in the truck along the parade route. An event they were already bragging about to their friends at school, according to Andrew.

The boys hung up the gear on the wall hooks and rolled out the hose to the truck in the parking lot. Zack had added a few extra stains to the exterior paint and removed some of the supply quantity inside the truck. He wanted the guys to work together and help each other remember what needed to be done.

The door to the firehouse opened, and Eddie walked into the engine bay. “You making them do your job again?” He winked.

“When I can encourage hard work and train these men up right? Absolutely.” Zack crossed his arms and grinned.

---