“What??”
“Seriously? I mean, I’ve only been a Lieutenant for two years now.”
“Son, that’s exactly how long I was a Lieutenant before I became a Captain.”
“Wow…”
“You two are the best firefighters I’ve ever had the pleasure of training and working with. You are both incredibly hard-working and strong men. I am so impressed with how far you have come and how much you continue to learn and grow. Not only that- but the way you control your team is remarkable. Either one of you would make an amazing Captain.”
Oh my god. This is insane. I mean, obviously I want the job. This would be amazing for me and my career.
“Alright boys- I hope you will both apply for the job, and you’re dismissed!”
We leave his office and walk downstairs in silence. Finally, we turn to one another. We both stick out our hands.
“May the best man win,” we both say as we shake hands.
Obviously, I know that Luke is going to apply for this just like I am. We’ve both always wanted this- I mean, it’s every firefighter's dream.
Do I think that this will ruin our friendship? Absolutely not. We’ve actually already kind of been through this together when I became a lieutenant a year before him. We got through that really professionally, and it changed nothing between us.
The one thing Iamworried about, however- is the fact that whoever doesn’t get the job may end up moving to a different station for another opportunity. And while I would understand if he did that, and he would understand if I did- it would suck to not work together anymore. Neither of us wants that- but I think we’ve always known that that might happen.
While I love my best friend and I want him to succeed- a part of me very deep inside wants Luke to tank this so that I get the spot. As soon as the thought enters my mind, I feel ashamed and horrible for thinking it. But as I look over at him, I’m sure that he is thinking the exact same thing about me.
I think I may have a slight leg up on him since I have always been the more serious one, and Luke may have just a little bit of growing up to do. Not that there's anything wrong with that- Luke is still an amazing man and firefighter.
Luckily, just as I’m about to try to distract myself from these thoughts- my attention is captured by a ridiculously hot woman pushing past us to get to the Captain's office. I have no idea who this stunning blonde woman is- but she certainly takes my mind off of this whole situation with Luke.