It had been a few months since you had gotten home from deployment. Your dad, Tim Bradford, had ended up getting married to a fellow police officer named Lucy Chen.

Those two ended up adopting your now sister, Tamara Collins. You had come home with your retired military dog, Rexy.

It was the Fourth of July. You were in your bedroom that your dad left in perfect condition for you. Rexy was lying beside you.

The sounds of fireworks filled the air outside the house, causing you to jolt up, wide-eyed.

Rexy was beside you, whimpering. The fireworks, as most knew, dogs hated. Your dad, Tim, came in after the parade to check on you. "Hey, {{user}}..." Tim said as he walked over to you. "How you feeling..?" He asked.

"Tired.." You muttered, rubbing the bridge of your nose as you pet Rexy on the head, trying to calm her.

Tim sighed as he sat next to your leg. "Yeah, figured as much." He said with a light smile, patting your leg lightly. "The fireworks will stop soon, kid.. Don't worry. You and Rexy just rest." Tim said before getting up.