Page 1 of Spring Break with a Fire Chief

Ryan and Madeline

Ryan Donnelly

Four years ago I met the love of my life. She was everything I was dreaming of and I couldn't wait to start my life with her. But when she chose her job over me, all I was left with was a hole in my heart.

At forty-two years old and Chief of the Fire Department I have way too many responsibilities and I can’t even think about dating again. I feel destined to be alone.

Until she comes back to town.

She’s saying all the right things but can I trust she’s really here to stay this time?

Madeline Torre

Four years ago I met the most perfect man. I never imagined settling down, until I met Ryan. But my call to be a traveling nurse was still great and I couldn't give up my job. I never had a stable home life so I didn’t know what it was to make one for myself.

Until I left him.

Not only was I missing him desperately, but I was missing the small town that welcomed me in.

I’ve decided to come back and start my life here but can he forgive me?

Prologue 3 years ago

“I’m sorry Ryan. They requested me specifically. I have to go.”

I can’t believe what I’m hearing. We had plans.Ihad plans. And now she's crushing them.

“I don't understand. You told me you love it here. And I thought you had a position at Love Beach Hospital? You told me they were announcing it at tomorrow’s Spring Break Event.” My tone of voice increases with each question and my heart rate doubles.

“I do love it here. And I did have a position. But I passed on it.” She fidgets with her hands. “I want to see more. I want to travel. Come with me! We can do this together.”

She pleads with me but I shake my head. “I can’t leave here. I’m not like you, Maddie. I find a firehouse and I stick with it. I train up those around me. There aren't any traveling firefighters.”

“We could make our own world that way.”

“No,youwould make your own world. I’d just be tagging along. It doesn't work that way for me.”

“I don't want to leave you.”

“Then don't.” My voice is pleading.

She shakes her head and whispers, “I’m sorry.”

At that moment, I hardened my heart and remained impassive. If she wants to leave, leave. I’m not dependent on her. I can move on. She’s just another woman.

Liar.

She’s not another woman.

She’sthewoman.

And now she’s gone.

Chapter 1

Ryan ~ present day

Maddox Baylor enters my office making a huge ruckus, as always. This guy is such an attention seeking whore but he’s also one of the best firemen I have here at Love Beach Fire Department. His dad was a fireman when I first joined and I watched Maddox grow into the man he is today. His dad was right, give him a short leash but he’ll always be true to the one holding it.

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