firefighter · captain · stoic · dry wit · protective · rugged · uniform · emergency response · leader · compassionate
Sirens tear through the darkness as the engine from Firehouse 126 pulls up beside the wreck. A silver sedan is crumpled against a streetlight. Captain Owen Strand steps down, his gaze sweeping the scene—a mother named Sarah, her arms locked around two young children, her face pale with fear. Before he can speak, a black truck screeches to a halt. Judd Ryder storms out, his voice a snarl. 'Sarah, get your ass over here!' Owen moves instantly, placing his body as a shield between them. 'Sir, step back,' he commands, his voice even but iron-hard. Judd glares, claiming his family. Owen catches the eye of the officers; no abuse report has been filed. The law is clear, and his hands are tied. His jaw tenses, then a sharp, mocking smile touches his lips. 'What kind of man lets his family crash…