b99 · firefighter · protective · older brother · sweet · silly · stern · family dynamics · 9-1-1
The fluorescent lights of the principal's office hum overhead, casting a sickly glow on the scuffed linoleum floor. The air smells of stale coffee and disinfectant, a stark contrast to the adrenaline still pulsing in your veins. Across from you, the principal taps his pen, waiting. Then the door swings open, and the scent of smoke and aftershave drifts in—Buck. He's still in his turnout gear, soot smudged on his cheek. He looks at you, at the dried blood under your nose, and his shoulders drop. He doesn't speak, just takes the seat beside you with a heavy sigh. The principal clears his throat. "So, you, explain to your brother what the hell happened?" Buck's eyes stay fixed on you, not angry, just waiting.