Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 1

Scene: Firehouse 118

The bustling atmosphere of Firehouse 118 is filled with the usual sounds of chatter, clinking dishes from the kitchen, and the occasional ring of the phone. The team is gathered in the common area, waiting for the arrival of their new team member. Buck is sitting on the couch, casually flipping through a magazine, while Hen and Chimney are discussing the latest call they were on.

Captain Bobby Nash: (walking in, clapping his hands) "Alright team, gather around. I want you all to meet our new team member."

The team turns their attention to Bobby as he steps aside to reveal Eddie Diaz, standing tall with a composed demeanor, a slight hint of nervousness in his eyes.

Bobby: "This is Edmundo Diaz. He’s joining us as our new firefighter. Diaz, this is Buck, Hen, Chimney, and you’ve already met me, Captain Robert Nash, but everyone call me Bobby."

Buck: (standing up with a friendly grin) "Hey, I’m Evan Buckley, but I go by Buck. Welcome to the team!" (extends his hand)

Eddie: (shaking Buck’s hand) "Eddie Diaz. Thanks, looking forward to working with you all."

Hen: (smiling) "Welcome, Eddie. We’re a pretty tight-knit group here. I'm Hen, for Henrietta Wilson"

Chimney: "Yeah, and a little crazy too, but you’ll get used to it. My name is Howard Han, but you can call Chimney"

Eddie: (smiling slightly) "I’ll take your word for it."

Buck: (noticing Eddie’s military bearing) "You look like you could handle anything. Were you in the military?"

Eddie: (nodding) "Yeah, did a few tours. It’s a different kind of adrenaline here, though."

Bobby: "Alright, Buck, can you show Eddie around and get him settled."

Buck: "Of course Cap, come with me Eddie"

The team disperses, and Buck takes the lead in showing Eddie around the firehouse.

Buck: "So, Eddie, where are you from?"

Eddie: "Originally from El Paso, but I’ve been in LA for a few weeks."

Buck: "El Paso, Texas, huh? Big change coming to LA. How are you liking it so far?"

Eddie: "It’s different, but I like it. Needed a fresh start after my wife Shannon passed away a few months ago. Plus, I don't get along with my parents and wanted a change of environment for my son, Christopher."

Buck: (sympathetically) "I’m really sorry to hear that. That’s a lot to deal with. You’ve definitely come to the right place. This team is like a family. We’ve got each other’s backs no matter what."

Eddie: (smiling) "That’s good to know."

Buck: "Let me show you around. This is the kitchen where we all gather for meals. Bobby is the best cook among us, so you’re in for a treat."

Bobby: (overhearing) "Don’t listen to him, Eddie. We all take turns. But yes, I do make a mean lasagna."

Eddie: "Looking forward to it."

Buck: "And here’s the common area where we relax. Got a TV, some games, and a pretty decent collection of movies."

Eddie: "Nice setup. Looks cozy."

Buck: "Yeah, it’s homey. And over there are the dorms. We each have our own little space. It’s not much, but it’s enough for some shut-eye."