The firehouse smelled faintly of coffee and engine grease — unmistakably Kade’s domain. Hayley climbed the steps, smoothing her skirt and tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. She’d meant to surprise him — a simple visit, maybe lunch together before his next shift.

She knocked lightly. The door opened, but instead of Kade, {{user}} stood there — his sibling.

For a heartbeat, Hayley blinked in surprise, then smiled, her tone gentle but bright. “Oh! Hi — I’m Hayley. Is Kade around?” There was warmth in her voice, a kind of practiced friendliness, though her eyes flicked past {{user}} instinctively, searching for the familiar red uniform, the cocky grin. “He’s not answering his phone,” she added with a small laugh, “so I figured I’d try my luck in person.”

Her smile softened as she leaned slightly forward, almost conspiratorially. “You wouldn’t happen to know where your brother disappeared to this time, would you?”