Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 102

Scene: Bobby’s Office – Station 118

Bobby sat behind his desk, the sturdy wood surface cluttered with neatly stacked paperwork, a few pens, and a mug of coffee that had clearly gone cold hours ago. His calm and collected demeanor remained a constant, grounding presence, even as Buck and Eddie entered his office. The soft whir of the overhead fan filled the quiet space, adding to the steady atmosphere. Bobby motioned for them to sit, his eyes warm but tinged with the familiar weight of responsibility.

Bobby: “Alright, boys. It’s good to have you back. But we’ve got a few things to take care of before you’re officially cleared for duty.”

He opened a folder in front of him, revealing a stack of paperwork. The sight was enough to make Buck groan internally, though he knew it was part of the job. The process was methodical, necessary, and Bobby had always taken it seriously—especially now, after everything they had been through.

Bobby: “These forms include medical clearances, liability waivers, fitness-for-duty evaluations—standard procedure after any prolonged absence. I’ve already reviewed your files and spoken with the department’s physician. Physically, you’re both in good shape, but this paperwork makes it official.”

He slid the first set of forms across the desk toward them. Buck picked up a pen, exchanging a glance with Eddie, who had already started scanning through his own pile of documents. The paperwork felt monotonous, with questions about medical history, emergency contacts, and other formalities they’d filled out a dozen times before. Still, each signature brought them one step closer to being back where they belonged—on the job.

As they worked through the forms, Bobby remained quietly observant, his eyes occasionally flicking between them. His calm demeanor hadn't changed, but there was an air of caution around him. He wanted to make sure they were not only physically but mentally ready for the challenges that came with firefighting.

Bobby: “Buck, Eddie, you’ve both been cleared by the department’s doctors, but I want to make something very clear. Today is your first day back, and it’s important to take things slow. Ease into the routine again. The job will always be there tomorrow. If either of you feels overwhelmed, I expect you to speak up, alright?”

Eddie nodded immediately, his posture as steady as ever. He had been preparing himself for this moment for weeks now, and while the weight of responsibility felt heavier than usual, he was ready.

Eddie: “We hear you, Cap. We’re not trying to rush anything.”

Buck, finishing the last signature on his final form, glanced at Bobby. There was something in Bobby’s tone that made him pause, something unspoken but heavy with concern. Buck gave a small, reassuring smile, though inside, his stomach fluttered slightly.

Buck: “We’ll be careful, Bobby. I know you’re worried about us jumping back in too fast, but... we’re ready.”

Bobby didn’t respond immediately, his eyes narrowing slightly as he regarded Buck. He could see the determination in Buck’s gaze, the quiet resolve that had always been part of who he was. But Bobby also knew the kind of trauma Buck had faced, and he wasn’t naïve to think that everything would fall back into place easily. Still, he chose not to push too hard just yet. They had been through enough; pushing too soon could do more harm than good.

Bobby (serious, but with a hint of softness): “I believe you’re ready, Buck. But remember, it’s okay if things don’t feel right immediately. No one’s going to judge you for taking your time.”

There was a beat of silence before Buck nodded again, appreciating the words more than he let on.

As they continued signing the forms, Bobby discussed a few other administrative matters—the need to update their certifications in CPR and advanced life support, the routine physical fitness tests that were due at the end of the month, and some new procedural updates from the department.

Bobby: “We’ve also got a new protocol in place regarding mental health checks. After everything that happened, the department’s taking PTSD more seriously. You’ll both need to meet with the department’s counselor within the next week. It’s mandatory for anyone returning from a traumatic incident.”

Eddie looked up from his papers, nodding in understanding. He appreciated that the department was making mental health a priority, especially after the last few months.

Eddie: “That’s a good move. We’ll schedule it.”

Buck didn’t say anything but gave a quick nod of agreement. He wasn’t entirely thrilled about the idea of talking to a counselor—he’d always prided himself on being able to handle things on his own—but he knew it was part of the process. He’d get through it if it meant getting back on the job.

Bobby’s expression softened as he watched them. Despite the formalities of the paperwork, the conversation felt more like a heart-to-heart. Bobby wasn’t just their captain—he was someone who had seen them through the toughest moments of their lives. He knew what they had gone through, and it was clear he wasn’t just thinking about the forms in front of him. He was thinking about them, as people.

Once the paperwork was done, Bobby stood up, motioning for both men to do the same. He extended his hand to Eddie first, then to Buck, his grip firm but warm.

Bobby (genuinely): “Good to have you both back. We missed you around here.”

Eddie (smiling): “It’s good to be back, Bobby.”

Buck: “Yeah... it really is.”

With the last of the paperwork finished, the official return to Station 118 was approved. Bobby gave them one final nod before stepping out of his office, leaving Buck and Eddie alone for a moment. They exchanged a glance, a silent acknowledgment passing between them. The weight of the day wasn’t lost on either of them, but at least now, it felt like they could handle it.

The firehouse was home, and even though the memories of the past still lingered, they were back where they belonged—together, with their team. The morning had started with a warm welcome, and now, with the paperwork behind them, the day ahead was full of possibility.

They left Bobby’s office, stepping back into the familiar rhythm of the station, ready for whatever the day would bring.