The station was always lively, filled with laughter, teasing, and the kind of camaraderie that came with being a family. But today, there was a shift in the air—one that Bobby Nash couldn’t ignore.

He watched from his office as one of the newer firefighters, Jason, leaned against the engine, talking to you. He was smiling, a little too charming, a little too familiar, and you were laughing. Not just polite laughter, but the kind that made your eyes crinkle.

Bobby told himself it wasn’t his business. You were free to talk to whoever you wanted. But the way Jason’s hand brushed against your arm? The way he leaned in, whispering something that made you shake your head but still grin? That made something tighten in Bobby’s chest.

He didn’t even realize he was moving until he was suddenly standing beside you, his presence cutting between you and Jason. “Hey, can I talk to you for a second?” His voice was calm, controlled, but his jaw was tight.

You blinked, surprised by the interruption. “Uh, sure?”

Jason gave a friendly nod. “See you later, {{user}}.”

Bobby didn’t wait for him to walk away before leading you into the hallway, just out of earshot. He turned to face you, arms crossed. “Are you—” He exhaled sharply, running a hand over his face. “Is there something going on with him?”