Page 46 of Cross Checks

“Oh, yes. Please, have a seat.”

I couldn’t read his face. I didn’t know whether something good or bad was going on, but I readied myself to sit in a chair on the opposite side of his desk.

“Before you sit, close the door, please.” His tone was serious, and I bit my lip.

“Is everything okay, Chief?” I asked as I sat and attempted to keep my voice steady.”

He stared at me. “Hank, you are one of my best firefighters. You exhibit stellar performance of your duties, and your public relations skills are top-notch.”

“Well, thank you.” I smiled. “I appreciate that.”

“That leads me to share my plans for this year with you.”

“Okay, but don’t we usually have a crew meeting to do that?”

Chief Newton leaned back in his chair. “We’ll still do that, but this is something very specific. As you know, I’m not getting any younger.”

“I don’t think any of us are if I might be so bold.”

Chief chuckled lightly. “And I need you to keep this information confidential for now.”

“Of course, Sir.” I was very nervous. “Wh-what is it?”

“I’ve decided that it’s time for me to step down as Cold Pines Fire Chief and retire before the end of the year.”

“Well, I think you do a fine job, but I understand the desire to enjoy retirement while you can.”

“Thank you, Hank, and now’s the part that involves you. I plan to suggest that the town council appoint you as our new Fire Chief. I think you are perfectly suited to step into the leadership role.”

“Uh, are you sure, Sir?” My voice trembled as I stared at Chief Newton. He looked back at me fondly. I had never seen that from him before. “You want me to take over?”

“Absolutely,” he replied and placed his hands on the desk. “I’ve given this matter a lot of thought over the past several months. You’ve repeatedly demonstrated the skills, experience, and dedication to lead your fellow firefighters.”

“Thank you, Sir. I appreciate your confidence.” The emotions roiling inside threatened to overwhelm me like a sudden storm capsizing one of our fishing vessels.

Being named chief was one of my top dreams from the first day I set foot in the firehouse. I thought that option in Cold Pines was still many years away. I didn’t expect Chief Newton’s early retirement. His news threatened to force me to decide between my career ambitions and my love for Chase.

“So, you have something else to celebrate on your day off.” Chief Newton smiled. “I know you will have some things to consider, so there is no need to rush into giving me your decision.”

“Thank you,” I whispered. “I appreciate that, too.”

I stood and reached out to shake Chief Newton’s hand. It felt like the world was rapidly tilting on its axis. Chase’s news came yesterday, and now mine today. The world needed to stop throwing curve balls. I didn’t think I could handle any additional ones.

As I turned to leave the office, Chief Newton had one more comment. “Remember, you’ve earned it.”

As I left his office and returned to the more familiar parts of the firehouse, my thoughts and emotions churned in my gut. I’d been granted the opportunity to reach the peak of my career ambitions, but at what cost? How could my relationship with Chase survive me living in Maine while his home was in Florida?

I listened to the chatter and laughter of my fellow firefighters. It would be an honor to lead them and encourage the development of their skills. I respected the talent of all of my colleagues. How could I turn down the offer to be their chief?

Yet, when I considered possibly ending my relationship with Chase, I thought I would be sick. It was too big of a sacrifice.

“Hey, Hank!” Lyle called out to me. “Are you alright over there?”

“Yeah, I’m good,” I said, smiling. “Just got a lot on my mind, is all.”

“Anything you want to talk about?”

I sighed. “Maybe later.”

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