#thebuck

The split with TK had been amicable but it had left things a bit awkward as far as the dividing of assets. In this case it was mostly their friends. .  The men had decided that there was no point in the officer ending all ties with the 126. Having the day off, Carlos decided to bring the gang some food. As much as Owen was a health nut, he couldn’t keep his hands off his Abuela’s empanadas. 

Pulling his truck into the station, Carlos hopped out, grabbing the food from the back seat. He said his hellos, and instantly found Owen attached to his side. He quickly gave the bag up, instead of risking Captain Strand taking his arm off. Carlos caught TK’s eye, giving him a warm smile and a wave. 

Carlos stood around, sliding his hands in his pockets, as the 126 made their way into the kitchen. Even with the mutual breakup, Carlos felt a bit awkward around the other fire fighters. This was still TK’s family more than his. Spinning on his heels, Carlos saw a straggler washing one of the rigs. “Hey, there’s some food in the kitchen. Some of my Abuela’s empanadas. You might wanna get a few before Captain Strand takes them all.” 

When the new stood up and turned around Carlos felt his heart skip a beat. The other was beautiful. And a natural beauty with a strong jaw, and the cutest birthmark above his eyebrow. The backwards baseball cap was a wonderful addition. “I’m sorry, for being rude. I’m Carlos.”

❛ I know you guys do that sorta’ stuff all the time ‘cause it’s your job and stuff. But, I ‘unno, I still thought it was real kind. Y’know? Savin’ all of us, makin’ sure we were all okay afta’wards? The individual lil’ care part a’ it. Dunno, felt special or some stupid shit like that. Does that make sense? Where I live it’s real dangerous all the time and sometimes I end up in bad situations like the one from the otha’ day. And, y’know, it’s so common that more often than not, people just let it happen. No one calls the fire department or the police or somethin’ t’ come deal with it. You kinda’ just figure it out, y’know? If you get seriously hurt, you betta’ have good insurance or know some back alley surgeons. ❜ Was she rambling? She felt like she was rambling.