9-1-1 ᴅᴀᴜɢʜᴛᴇʀ ᴏɴᴇ sʜᴏᴛs

Heights - Evan Buckley

Olivia Buckley - 11

The sun was shining brightly over Los Angeles as Evan Buckley, known to his friends as Buck, parked his car at the amusement park. The 118 crew and their families had decided to spend the day at the park, enjoying the rides and taking a much-needed break from their high-pressure jobs. Buck glanced in the rearview mirror at his 11-year-old daughter, Olivia, or Liv as he affectionately called her. She was fidgeting with her seatbelt, her nervousness evident.

"Hey, Liv," Buck said, turning around to give her a reassuring smile. "Ready for a fun day?"

Olivia nodded hesitantly. "Yeah, Dad. But remember, I don't like the really high rides."

Buck reached over and squeezed her hand. "Don't worry, Liv. We can stick to the rides you're comfortable with. But if you want to try something new, I'll be right there with you."

Olivia gave him a small smile. "Okay, Dad."

They joined the rest of the crew at the entrance, where Eddie, Hen, Chimney, Bobby, and their families were already gathered. Everyone was excited, the air filled with laughter and chatter. Buck felt a surge of happiness seeing his daughter surrounded by so many supportive people.

"Hey, Buck! Hey, Liv!" Chimney called out, waving them over. "Ready to have some fun?"

Liv nodded shyly, staying close to her father's side. Eddie's son, Christopher, came over, giving Liv a friendly wave. "Hi, Liv! Do you want to go on the Ferris wheel with me?"

Olivia hesitated, looking up at Buck. "Is it high, Dad?"

Buck crouched down to her level. "It is a bit high, but it's a slow ride. And I'll be right there with you. What do you think?"

Liv took a deep breath and nodded. "Okay, I'll try."

They made their way to the Ferris wheel, the towering structure looming ahead. Liv's grip on Buck's hand tightened as they got closer. He squeezed back, offering silent reassurance.

As they boarded the Ferris wheel, Liv's anxiety was palpable. She sat between Buck and Christopher, her eyes wide as the ride began its slow ascent. Buck kept a steady stream of calming words, pointing out the beautiful views of the city unfolding below them.

"See, Liv? It's not so bad," he said, his voice soothing. "Look at how small everything looks from up here."

Liv managed a small smile, her grip on his hand relaxing slightly. "It's kind of pretty."

The ride continued smoothly, and by the time they reached the top, Liv was feeling more at ease. She even leaned slightly to look out at the view, her fear momentarily forgotten.

After the Ferris wheel, they joined the others for various games and smaller rides. Liv's confidence grew with each activity, her laughter mingling with the rest of the group's. Buck couldn't have been prouder of her for facing her fears head-on.

As the day progressed, they all decided to try a new ride that had just opened—a towering roller coaster called "The Sky Surge." It promised breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience. Buck was excited, but he could see the apprehension in Liv's eyes.

"Dad, do we have to go on this one?" Liv asked, her voice trembling slightly.

Buck knelt down beside her. "No, Liv, we don't have to. But I'll be with you the whole time, and I promise it will be safe. If you really don't want to, we can wait for the others."

Liv bit her lip, looking at the ride and then back at her father. She took a deep breath and nodded. "Okay, I'll try. But can I sit next to you?"

Buck smiled, pulling her into a hug. "Of course, you can."