I know it's been a very long while... probably more than that, but I've been busy, like usual, but also struggling mentally. I can't really say I'll be consistent again but I will be trying to get these chapters out when I can. Also, I do notice the little... love problem I've implemented, but trust me, I know what I'm doing. So without further ado, enjoy this long, entertaining, and FIERY chapter...
Back At The Firehouse…
As Truck's engine rumbled while driving onto the apparatus floor, Squad already got out of their truck. The brakes squealed then hissed after.
Everyone started getting out.
"Hey. Gibson. Good work. If it weren't for you, I would've gotten physical with that guy… And probably costing me my job." Travis mentioned. Gibson shrugged. "I would've paid to watch that." He chuckled as he walked away.
As Pep shut a compartment door on the Squad truck, Spinelli briefly looked at the tire of her Truck company, mostly with something in mind. She only sighed as she hung her coat on the mirror.
Walking to the Officer's Quarters, she found Arnold headed toward his office.
"Arnold!" He looked over. "Spinelli! Hey!"
Spinelli immediately embraced him, hugging him as tight as ever and not wanting to let go. "I love you…"
While Arnold found it a little out of the blue, he returned the hug and put his hand on the back of her head. "Hey. You know I love you too…"
Meanwhile, Ambulance 55 was still out of the house and looking for answers.
"Apparently they all got offended 'cause they thought I thought all roofers know each other, which I never thought to begin with." Violet scoffed.
"Ah. Alright, where next?" Brett asked. "TSG Roofing Solutions. 3200 West Halsted. Outside our still District…" Violet replied.
"I won't tell the Chief if you don't." Brett looked over. Violet grinned, giving Vanessa the answer she wanted.
Later…
Driving along to the address, Brett broke the silence. "Did something happen between you and the Squad Lieutenant?"
"Pfft. What? No. And it's not going to." Violet shrugged. "Mmm, I don't know… The way you touched his arm earlier, kind of saw a few sparks fly. It suggests otherwise." Brett shrugged.
"I don't know, I guess there's something that draws me to him. I mean, he's cute, he's charming, but… I really don't wanna risk anything…" Violet cleared her throat.
Coming to a parking lot, the two medics found the green Toyota Camry from earlier.
"Vi, that's his car." Vanessa mentioned. "Keep going." Violet pulled her phone out.
"Hey, Upton. No updates to report yet." Detective Daniel said. "Daniel, we found him!"
"What? How?" Daniel questioned. "His car's at 3200 West Halsted! You have to get here!" Violet answered as Brett kept an eye on the car.
"O- Okay! I'm five minutes away! Is the woman with him?" Daniel asked. "We don't know, we only see his car!" She answered.
"Don't do anything, I'm headed over now!" Daniel told her and hung up. Vanessa turned the ambulance around and parked it near the entrance and shut off the engine.
And just seconds after, the man came out with the woman, grabbing her by the arm. Violet started dialing Daniel again.
The man pulled a knife at her, threatening her to get in the car.
No answer from the Detective. "Voicemail! What do we do?" Violet asked.
Vanessa grabbed the keys. "I'm not losing them again." She put the keys in the ignition and immediately cranked the engine.
Tires screeched from both vehicles as they rushed toward the entrance/exit.
The dusty Toyota screeched to a stop when Ambulance 55 suddenly stopped and blocked its exit.
The green Toyota rammed into its headlight. It backed up, and rammed into it again.
Sirens wailed as police units came rushing over and screeching to a halt.
"OUT OF THE CAR! SHOW ME YOUR HANDS!" Daniel shouted as police units backed him up.
The man reluctantly got out with his hands raised. Daniel slammed the man against the car hood to cuff him.
The medics got the woman out of the passenger side.
"Thank you!…" The woman said while sobbing. "It's ok! You're alright now! You're safe!" Brett comforted the woman.
The police took care of searching the car for any weapons and anything else the man had in his possession.
Back at the firehouse, Arnold and Spinelli were on the apparatus floor, discussing a couple of important topics.
"… We can't go unless we have the right people stepping into our shoes. I trust Cruz will take care of Squad 55 until we're back, but what about Truck? Gibson doesn't seem normal lately." Arnold mentioned.
Spinelli sighed. "Arnold, I'm worried about him. I know he's been odd lately but he seems weirder than usual!"
A garage door of the firehouse opened as Arnold answered. "… The man has suffered head trauma this past year, and has signs of PTSD, somewhat… But-" They looked back to find Ambulance 55 driving in with a busted headlight and damaged right front.
Stella walked in with her arms crossed. "Well… The new Paramedic Chief is on her way and is interested to hear how you crashed the rig and went outside your Still District…" She mentioned while the Squad truck's Squad flag was seen in the background.
"Is that ALL she's worried about?" Violet asked with an attitude.
"If the Chief wants to write us up for driving five blocks out of the District to save a woman's life, then she can-" Stella stopped Vanessa. "It's better if I speak to her…"
Vanessa crossed her arms. "I'd LOVE to have that conversation with her." Brett mentioned. Stella merely stared at her. "You're right. You should." Brett said.
"You two are going to be great partners. Chaotic but great." She grinned and walked away.
"Thank you, Chief." Brett answered. Violet softly smiled at her partner.
Despite a crazy start to her new home at 55, she was already proving herself the house, and her partner, Vanessa.
Stella walked past Arnold and Spinelli, in which Spinelli stared at her Truck company for a moment before shaking her head, her replacement Lieutenant's future in doubt.
"C'mere." Arnold put an arm over her as they walked away together.
Later That Night…
As a glass of beer was poured, Arnold took that glass and raised it. "Cruz called and said Maria's gonna pull through! With PT, she's expected to make a full recovery!"
They cheered and clicked their glasses together. They took a sip together as it went to Violet and Vanessa.
"Alright, well, I think I have to get going now. Can't get too drunk either." Brett chuckled. Violet pouted. "See you on shift." Vanessa walked away as Arnold came over.
Unfortunately, Spinelli was still at the firehouse with his mother, Stella, discussing her worries and concerns about Gibson and his health. Gibson wasn't present at Silver Tiger's like any other night.
"Heroes don't buy their drinks tonight." Arnold softly smirked. "I can take care of myself, Lieutenant. Thanks anyhow." Violet immediately got up and walked away. Arnold raised an eyebrow and followed.
"Hey! Violet!" He called out.
"Following me to the bathroom?" Violet smirked. "Real mature…" Arnold said, unamused. "Violet, you've been hot and cold all day today, one moment we're able to talk to one another, the next, you're ghosting me. What's going on?" He questioned.
Violet gripped his shoulders and hoodie. "This is what's going on, and I can't take it anymore…"
And just like that, Violet did something Vanessa couldn't. She leaned forward while pulling Arnold forward and pressing her glossy and soft lips on his…
After a few seconds, Arnold finally pushed her away, making her want more.
"Violet, I'm married…" He mentioned. Violet's cheeks went hot immediately. "W- What?…"
"I'm sorry, but this isn't shouldn't be happening…" Arnold walked away as Violet stood there, her heart feeling heavy, shattered, and more heartbroken than ever…
Pep tried to grab his arm as he walked by, but she noticed the troubled look on him.
Later at Two In The Morning…
At home, while Spinelli and Pep were dead asleep, Phoebe working a 24 hour shift, Arnold was in the living room with his mother, Stella. Stella was ruffling Diesel's fur, Diesel was mainly sitting there obediently.
Stella noticed the stress on Arnold's face and posture. "… A mother knows when her child has worries on his or her mind. Now Arnold, tell me. Am I wrong?" She asked while scratching Diesel's head.
Arnold rubbed his forehead and sighed. "No?…"
Stella stopped scratching Diesel's head. "Well? What's wrong, dear? Something happened while at Silver Tigers?" She asked. Diesel whined at her, wanting more scratches. Stella softly smiled and continued giving him scratches a little longer.
"How do I put this…" Arnold hesitated. "Uh…"
"What?" Stella stopped again, Diesel looked at his owner and whined. "Did something bad happen? What is it, Arnold?"
"Uhm…" Arnold scratched the back of his neck.
"Arnold, what happened? Don't you even try to lie to me, 'cause I know you too damn well for you-" Stella started, but Arnold abruptly interrupted. "I kissed another woman!…" He said, but not too loud for the girls to wake up.
Stella's expression dropped. "You what?"
"Mom, I didn't start the kiss, she did!" Arnold sounded flustered.
"Who did?" Stella asked, listening attentively.
Arnold gulped. "… Uh… Ou- Our new paramedic, Violet Upton…" Stella raised an eyebrow. "Mom, I didn't mean for that kiss to happen! I- I followed her before she went to the restroom and… I asked her why she played hot and cold with me today, 'cause Vanessa never did that, and next thing I know, she leaned in for a kiss!"
Stella sighed. "Oh, Arnold, Arnold… The kinds of messes you and this Firehouse get into…"
"Mom, you know I love Spinelli, I don't know why I didn't prevent it either! Ugh!…" Arnold exhaled, clearly stressed.
"Arnold, I don't know exactly what to tell you to feel better but…" Stella started. "… But you need to tell her."
"What?! How am I gonna do that? All I know is that she'll get extremely upset!" Arnold answered. "And? AND?" Stella questioned. "Would you rather tell her and get it off your shoulders, or have that massive load of guilt for the rest of your life and not tell her?"
"And how is that exactly helping me?" Arnold asked.
"Sure she'll be mad, given her attitude, but are you really thinking of not telling her?" Stella questioned. Arnold blinked twice blankly. "If not, that says something! You don't love her like you say you do. You keeping this kiss with Violet a secret is something that not only will eat you up inside, it'll be the biggest regret because if Spinelli finds out by someone else telling her, there's almost no going back…" Stella reached out and patted his knee. "Think about it."
Arnold exhaled with nothing to say. Stella got up and patted his shoulder. "I want you to tell her tomorrow. No excuses. 'Kay?"
"Ok, Mom… Thanks." He answered and looked up at her.
"Love you, honey." She said. "Love you too, Mom." They smiled at each other.
Stella soon walked away and out the front door to her SUV in the driveway. Arnold looked at Diesel and smiled lightly.
"C'mon, boy. Let's get you to bed, but first… How about we go see your second owner?" Arnold got up and whistled. "Here, boy!"
Walking into the bedroom, Arnold found Spinelli sleeping on her back with an arm over head and her other arm over her stomach.
Arnold leaned over a bit, stroking her hair and nuzzling her nose briefly. Spinelli slowly awoke from her sleep and found her beloved husband. She smiled wholeheartedly.
"Hey…" She softly said. Arnold gave a long kiss on her forehead. "I love you." Arnold rubbed her forehead gently. "C'mon… Get to bed already…" Spinelli softly said.
Arnold nodded and smiled. "I'll be here in a sec. Here, boy!" Arnold whistled and walked out of the bedroom.
Minutes Later…
After the pets were asleep, Andy being checked on, Arnold finally came back to the bedroom where Spinelli was half awake, but fighting off her sleepiness.
Arnold crawled into bed and kissed her cheek. "Hey, honey."
"Took you long…" Spinelli yawned. "Sorry, I was just, uhm… a little occupied, but I'm right here, Ashley. And I love you." Arnold softly smiled.
Spinelli softly smiled and rubbed her left eye. "… If it wasn't for my damn tiredness… I would've taken my bra off for you…" She yawned. Arnold sighed. "I- I'm not too much in the mood, Spinelli…" He rubbed her bare shoulder while she laid down.
Spinelli lightly shrugged. "Did something happen?" She asked.
Arnold cleared his throat. "No- uh, no. Nothing happened, sweetheart…" He leaned down to kiss her forehead. "Just focus on getting some sleep, baby. Okay?"
Spinelli reached up to softly caress his cheek. "Goodnight, Arnold…" She yawned one more time before rolling onto her side and getting comfy once more. "Goodnight, Spinelli. I love you…" Arnold softly smiled.
"Love you more." Spinelli softly smiled as she closed her eyes to go to sleep.
As Spinelli fell asleep quickly, Arnold stayed seated on his side of the bed, thinking how he could tell her about the kiss with Violet.
Fifteen minutes would go by before he finally laid down, cuddled Spinelli close, and fell asleep since they had another shift ahead…
The Next Morning…
At the firehouse, on the apparatus floor, Michelle was leaning against the bumper of the Squad truck, currently ranting about how her podcast went with her sister last night.
"… And I'm like ugh! Like… I don't know, it was… chaotic, to say the least." Michelle said. Arnold chuckled lightly. "So? What happened after?" He asked.
"Pfft! Yeah, uh, let's not go there exactly… I mean, what? Not my fault I don't watch wrestling and know who is who!" Michelle shrugged. Arnold shook his head and chuckled. "God, I really want a hit of a cigar but, I'm not letting my lungs near any of that stuff…"
Michelle took a deep breath and let out a relaxed exhale. "So? How's Cruz?"
"In his own world. Maria's ok, so uh, he should be fine." Arnold answered. Michelle nodded understandingly. "Ah…"
The station alarm went off. "Ambulance 55. Man down, unknown causes. 3400 East Ave." The dispatcher said.
Michelle exhaled again. "Why don't we do this more often? Just sit on our rigs, have heart-to-hearts, life… Just overall bond and enjoy time together." Michelle said.
Arnold nodded slowly. "Yeah…"
Michelle looked at him, looking at him from top to bottom. "You okay?" She asked as the garage door opened for Ambo. The engine cranked and Ambulance 55 drove out of the firehouse.
"You sure you're okay? You look down on your luck today." Michelle asked again. Arnold shrugged and looked ahead. "I mean, I guess." He looked behind the truck, toward the Squad table.
McCaffery held up a newspaper to his face in which he cut holes that made a happy ghost face. He proceeded to make goofy noises with the ghost-like mask, making the entire Squad table laugh.
Arnold chuckled as he looked back at Michelle. "I guess it's just… a worry I have…"
"Mind telling me what it is?" She asked with a curious look, her ponytail slightly swaying. "It's something I need to discuss with my wife, that's all…"
"Speak of the devil, here she comes." She mentioned.
SLAM
A loud slamming sound came from the apparatus floor. Spinelli came over, scratching her head.
"Baby, wh- what's wrong?" Arnold asked. Spinelli put her hands on her hips and sighed. "I tried talking with Gibson, but he took it the wrong way, and he didn't listen to me!" Spinelli exhaled. "He somewhat retaliated against me, told him another one of that and I'm sending him home for the rest of the week."
Arnold extended an arm out. "Hey, c'mere."
Cupping her cheek, Spinelli leaned forward and rested on his forehead. "There you go…" Arnold caressed her cheek. Spinelli exhaled again, still feeling uneasy.
Soon after, they gave a soft kiss on their lips and smiled softly at one another.
"I'll see you later?" Arnold asked while holding her arm. "Of course." Spinelli smiled.
She soon walked away as Arnold looked back at Michelle.
"Thinking about having a second child?" Michelle asked. Arnold chuckled. "I wish. It's something… rather more serious." He sighed and shook his head. "I just don't know how to tell her…"
Michelle put a hand on his shoulder and lightly shook it. "I'm sure whatever it is, you'll find a way. Ok?"
Arnold smiled at her. "Thanks… This is why we're somewhat alike. We're able to have these… these moments, you know?"
"Of course I know." She smiled. "You know, you're almost like family to me, I don't want to say brother, 'cause, well…" She shrugged and blushed lightly. "We're family for a reason." Arnold looked over.
Soon, Spinelli came back and touched Arnold's shoulder. "Hey. You got a sec?"
"Spinelli, that shouldn't be a question, of course I do!" Arnold got up and followed her.
Walking into the locker room, Spinelli cleared her throat and turned around.
"Ok, uh, so… You remember that car accident earlier? At the start of shift?" She asked.
"Yeah, why?"
"Listen, there's this kid who loves firefighting, and uh… I called Phoebe to check on the kid, he's getting discharged very soon, so, I've been talking with my guys and… We decided to go visit the kid and give him an experience he'll never forget." Spinelli explained.
Arnold smiled. "Look at you doing this now." He chuckled. Spinelli shrugged with a smile. "The kid is young and he loves what we do, figured we'd give him an unforgettable memory."
"So I'll see you later?" Arnold asked.
"Of course, why?"
Arnold sighed and held both her hands. "There's… something you need to know." Spinelli looked at him with worry. "What's wrong? What happened? Did something happen at home? A- Are our dogs ok? Is Andy ok?!"
"Baby, baby, nothing happened at home… It's just… I'll tell you when you get back, go with your crew. Have fun." Arnold leaned forward and kissed her soft lips.
After returning the kiss, Spinelli separated from him but still wondered what was wrong. "I'll see you, Arnold. Love you." She kissed his cheek.
Arnold kissed her cheek back. "Love you more, honey."
"Hey! Truck! Let's go for a ride!" Spinelli shouted to call over her team.
Arnold smiled softly as he watched his wife walk away, but it soon faded knowing he had to discuss his kiss with Violet last night.
Truck 55 soon drove out of the firehouse and Ambulance 55 soon drove back in.
Brett turned to face her partner after taking the keys from the ignition. "Upton, you ok? You're real quiet today." Vanessa softly asked.
Violet shrugged. "Peachy."
The two medics got out of the ambulance and walked to the front of their rig. "Come on, what's going on? Talk to me." Brett said.
Violet shrugged again and put her hands in her pockets. "I guess I have a few things to figure out about love…"
"What do you mean?" Vanessa leaned on the ambulance.
"Brett, after you left… A- Arnold approached me and offered to refill my drink… I said no and walked away after. He followed me 'cause he didn't understand what was going on between us but… I let my huge crush on him get to me and… I kissed him, Nessa…"
"What?" Vanessa looked at her partner in worry.
"I kissed him, Brett… And after, he told me he was married! Now I see what you meant about me having a lot to consider… I feel crushed, I feel awful, I feel like everything has crumbled for me, Nessa!" Violet fought back her emotions, but her eyes were slightly reddened by the tears in her eyes.
As much jealousy Brett felt, she did feel bad for her partner. She put a hand on Violet's shoulder, massaging her shoulder as Violet let a couple of tears slide down her cheeks. "I think there's something to be talked about, before you miss that chance."
Violet nodded as she pursed her lips in sadness.
Meanwhile, at the ambulance bay of MedStar, Spinelli and the others had their full turnout gear on as they saw the kid with his parents walking out of the hospital.
"Ayeee, there he is! What's up?" Spinelli called out.
"Mrs. Spinelli-Shortman?" The mother asked.
There she stood, the fierce, scrappy, and tough Lieutenant with her Truck Company and the rig behind her. The big six-wheeled 110-foot Aerial Ladder truck with both its front doors open.
"Of course! Now, Chris, ever ridden in a fire truck? I know your parents said it's been a dream of yours!" Spinelli started. "I got to thinking, talked with my husband and my crew here, and I figured maybe why not give you the best experience in the world! And as we like to say in the Firehouse… Let's go for a ride." Spinelli ultimately offered and smiled.
The guys behind smiled at one another.
Chris looked at his parents. "Go. We'll follow." His father said with a smile.
Chris walked over to Spinelli. "Ready, champ?"
Chris nodded eagerly as he hopped inside the truck, in the backseats. Spinelli got inside her usual Lieutenant's spot. The engine cranked.
"This is so amazing! Where are we going?" Chris asked as doors closed.
"To finish what you started. Hit it, Tommy." Spinelli said. "10-4." Tommy answered with a smile as he moved the shifter.
With the loud rumble of engine, Truck 55 started driving off from the ambulance bay as Chris's parents watched the big and tall Truck Company drive away. The rear flag waved as the rig drove away.
Back at the Firehouse…
Michelle and Arnold were still hanging out on the bumper of the Squad truck before they recomposed themselves.
"You know… I often think about my Captaincy. The firehouse roster, and other things…" Michelle started. "I often even think who's next to not come back home after answering that bell… There's always a lot going on in my head…"
Arnold sighed and shrugged. "I know how you feel. I can't imagine how things are gonna be in the span of just a month. Maybe a week?"
"Heck. I feel like all this is bottled up and I can barely express how I feel. Even to my sister!" Michelle mentioned.
Arnold put a hand on her shoulder and gently massaged it, comforting her.
Soon…
At an American football stadium, Chris was getting his sock signed by a college athlete.
Tommy then noticed… "Hey!… You're- Is that Mike Tirico from NBC? Sunday Night Football?" Donovan looked over on the field.
Currently, he was conversing with some of the players.
"I think that is… Man, who doesn't love that guy? Tremendous work." He mentioned.
Everyone's radio beeped three times. "Truck 55. Factory fire. 4526 South Carol Drive. Be advised, full Company 55 already responding." Dispatch radioed.
Spinelli handed Chris his Sharpie. "55, let's move!" She shouted. "Take care, kid!" She said while heading off.
Chris and the student-athlete smiled while watching them head off.
Sirens wailed as horns blared loudly, creating an echo along with the sirens.
Black smoke was pouring from a building as Truck and Squad were arriving, Truck leading the way.
Truck turned left and soon came to a stop. Squad parked alongside to the right. Brakes hissed from both trucks as a red HFD pickup truck raced into the lot, passing Truck 55 and screeching to a stop on the gravel, dust being kicked up as Ambulance 55 followed in behind. Engine 55 finally came into the lot and parked ahead of Squad. Ambulance 55 parked in front of Truck.
Fire crackled from the building as people came over from the entrance.
Michelle slammed the truck door of her Engine company as she got her helmet on.
"Is everyone out?" Stella asked one of the civilians.
Cruz and Pep walked by the front of Truck as it went to Don and Gibson.
"Don, hey." Scott started as he got his SCBA strapped on, the new brand that came in a week ago, the Scott SCBAs Stella ordered from the Department. "I think I might retire…" Scott said.
"What?" Donovan gave a confused look.
"This may be it for me, Alex. I don't know if I have it in me anymore. It's probably time…" Gibson mentioned.
Only fate had his decision in its hands…
"Truck! With me!" Michelle shouted.
"Ok, listen up!" Stella started. All companies gathered around her. "They're saying there's trapped workers but I'm hating how this smoke's looking! Engine! Get a line in this one! Quick trigger, we don't have long. Four minutes." Stella explained to everyone.
"Alright, Squad, with me! We'll take the North End of the building!" Arnold pointed and walked ahead to lead his crew.
"Let's go, let's go, let's go!" Stella shouted.
"Truck 55, right in there!" Michelle pointed to the entrance. "I'm joining y'all for primary search!"
Michelle briefly looked over to see Violet holding her radio and eyeing Arnold for a moment before looking away.
HISS
THRASH
WHOOSH
A fireball flared from one of the windows.
Truck started masking up as Engine already came through with a hoseline.
Warren switched the hose on and aimed the hose high.
"Truck! Let's move!" Michelle shouted, taking point.
Inside, the fire was already spreading, cutting their time fast.
"Alexander! Spinelli! Get them, we'll keep going ahead!" Michelle shouted as they passed by the first set of victims.
"Copy, Cap!" Spinelli answered. "Hey! Ma'am! Come on, we'll get you out!" She said while helping her up.
"Sir, we'll get you out! Come with us!" Donovan told the other victim.
"Montgomery! Gibson! That way!" Michelle pointed in a direction. "Copy that, Captain!" Travis answered.
Back outside…
"Chief! Squad's inside!" Arnold shouted on the radio.
Overlapping chatter and radioactivity went on in the background.
Roaming a hall with flames crackling everywhere, "MCCAFFERY, CRUZ, SUAREZ, MURRAY, IN THERE! CLEMENTE, WITH ME, LET'S GO!" Arnold shouted.
"COPY THAT!" Cruz shouted as he led McCaffery, Murray, and Suarez.
It transitioned outside where flames raged uncontrollably from many windows.
"Brett! Upton! We're coming out with two your way!" Donovan radioed.
Violet and Brett rushed over to receive the victims. Spinelli and Donovan turned around to get back inside.
"CALL OUT! FIRE DEPARTMENT! CALL OUT IF YOU CAN HEAR ME!" Michelle yelled as flames crackled loudly.
"FIRE DEPARTMENT! CALL OUT!" Travis shouted. "FIRE DEPARTMENT! ANYONE IN HERE!?" He shouted again.
Gibson searched a corner, but found no one.
CRASH
HISS
THRASH
Fireballs flared as a loud rumble was heard.
"Dammit!… It's in the trusses…" Stella said. She then went on her radio. "That's it! I want ALL FIREFIGHTERS TO EXIT THE BUILDING IMMEDIATELY!"
Inside, Michelle searched over a desk and found an unconscious man.
"Chief, It's McShay, I got someone! I'm bringing him out now!" She shouted and tossed her halligan aside. "I repeat!" Stella started.
"ALL FIREFIGHTERS TO EVACUATE THE BUILDING! NOW!" Stella shouted as chatter went on in the background.
"NOW!"
"HEY! DON! YOU GET OUT, I'll WRAP IT UP HERE AND GET OUT, ALRIGHT?" Spinelli told Donovan.
"BUT LIEUTENANT-"
"GO!" Spinelli shouted.
Donovan had no choice but to nod, turn around, and start making his way out.
Over with Travis and Gibson, Scott was having stability issues, breathing heavily, and blinking multiple times…
"HEY! GIBSON! YOU HEARD HER! WE GOTTA GET OUT OF HERE NOW!" Travis shouted.
Gibson didn't answer…
"GIBSON! GIBSON, YOU ALRIGHT?" Travis shouted again.
Scott's eyes shut quickly as he fell to his knees and collapsed onto his back… His helmet came off as he laid almost in the same position the night of the Firefighter's Ball.
"SCOT- SCOTT! SCOTT!" Travis rushed over to him and kneeled. "GIBSON, WAKE UP! WAKE UP, SCOTT! SCOTT!" He yelled.
He then went on his radio frantically. "CHIEF! MAYDAY, MAYDAY! I HAVE A MAN DOWN, IT'S SCOTT! HE'S NOT RESPONDING!"
Scott laid with his eyes shut, with no movement to be seen…
Travis didn't risk taking Scott's mask off as he tried shaking him awake. "C'MON, GIBSON, WAKE UP!"
"What's your location?" Stella asked as most of Squad was with her.
"NORTHWEST CORRIDOR!" Travis shouted. "GIBSON, WAKE UP! C'MON, PLEASE, SCOTT!"
Cruz got up from his crouched position. "Chief, we gotta get him!" He said.
"Stand down, Cruz!" Stella said.
BANG
WHOOSH
HISS
THRASH
A fireball exploded into the air from the roof.
Inside, wood came collapsing down, nearly hitting two firefighters.
"SPINELLI, WHERE ARE YOU?!" Stella shouted. "CHIEF, UH- TRUSSES GIVING WAY ALL OVER! ATTEMPTING TO FIND AN ALTERNATE EXIT NOW!" She yelled.
Inside, Michelle was carrying the unconscious man on her shoulder. "THIS IS McSHAY, I'M COMING OUT WITH ONE!" She shouted.
Suddenly, creaking was heard. Michelle looked up to see what it was.
Michelle immediately threw herself onto the ground as flaming wood came crashing down.
CRACK
CRASH
THRASH
BANG
RUMBLE
WHOOSH
HISS
Fireballs exploded from the windows of the building outside as black smoke poured.
Wooden debris came crashing down after the initial collapse.
Michelle looked around, only to see herself surrounded by the raging flames. "CHIEF! I'M TRAPPED! CHARLIE DELTA CORNER IN IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE!" Michelle shouted.
"ARNOLD! WHAT IS YOUR POSITION? CAN YOU ASSIST CAPTAIN McSHAY?" Stella shouted.
Inside, flames raged all around as he and Pep had objects blocking their way.
"YEAH, YEAH! WE'RE WORKING ON IT, CHIEF! BUT WE'RE BLOCKED!" Arnold shouted. "PEP!" He yelled.
He and Pep started trying to move a heavy shelf that was blocking their way.
"HEY! HOW 'BOUT A HAND!" Spinelli shouted. She had somehow made her way over to them.
Outside, Violet held her radio while looking at the raging inferno of a factory.
"Stay focused, Upton. They'll all make it." Brett mentioned. "They always do…" She added.
Violet nodded as she looked back at the building.
Back inside, the flames raged more and more, keeping Travis pinned down with an unconscious Gibson…
"YOU'RE NOT DYING ON ME! YOU HEAR ME?!" Travis had taken off Scott's SCBA and air valve from his mask.
Travis started dragging Scott from his coat, hoping to get out quickly.
BANG
WHOOSH
THRASH
BOOM
CRASH
THUD
KA-BOOM
HISS
THRASH
Travis was knocked down from the explosion but immediately looked around, seeing if there was any way out…
"CHIEF!… THE FIRE JUMPED! WE'RE SURROUNDED NOW!" Travis shouted on his radio.
Cruz couldn't contain his frustration. "Chief! We can get him!" He pleaded.
Stella looked at McCaffery, Murray, and Suarez. Stella finally gave in. "McCaffery, Murray, Suarez, on a hoseline." She ordered.
The three nodded.
Stella looked back at Cruz. "Let's go, Cruz."
Cruz nodded as Stella got her SCBA from the gravel.
BOOM
BANG
KA-POW
A fiery explosion went off at the entrance, a fireball flaring out, making everyone flinch away.
Once the fireball cleared, the entire entrance wasn't viable. The entrance was now engulfed in flames…
Cruz stared at the flaming entrance, knowing there was no way in anymore and all his friends were still inside…
Flames raged from every visible window, black smoke pouring everywhere and in the wind, possibly marking the worst factory they've all faced…
"No! NO! NOOO!" Cruz yelled as he tried going ahead. "CRUZ! Stella yanked him from his coat.
From every window, the flames crackled and raged violently as smoke surrounded the building.
After, Stella went on her radio with a heavy heart. "Montgomery… Entrance is blocked... I don't care if you have to put Gibson on your damn shoulder but you need to get the hell out of there!..." She told him.
Violet took a step forward, her heart beating in her throat.
"Captain! Evacuate that building any way you can!" Stella told Michelle.
Inside, Michelle was surrounded by flames, with almost no hope…
"AGAIN!" Arnold, Pep, and Spinelli were still blocked off by the heavy shelf, which was almost their only way…
"Scott! Scott, you need to get out of there! GIBSON!" Cruz's voice was breaking, his emotions overflowing.
Scott laid unconscious, his radio going off.
"He can't talk, Victor…" Travis answered while kneeling next to Scott. Flames surrounding them.
Cruz closed his eyes, fighting back his tears. "C'mon, Scott! Don't die on us! PLEASE!"
Stella felt her heart heavy, McCaffery, Suarez, and Murray with distressed looks, knowing they already failed to be able to get back inside to rescue their friends.
WHOOSH
HISS
Fireballs continued flaring from the factory windows.
CRACK
CRASH
THRASH
Flaming wooden debris came crashing down, igniting the fire even more and worsening the situation.
Everyone felt a deep feeling of sadness, anxiety, and stress, not knowing whether this was the end, but by the looks of the raging flames, the situation everyone inside found themselves in, this may be the end…
Violet and Brett held their radios, fighting back their emotions.
"GIBSON, C'MON! DON'T DIE ON ME! NOT HERE!…" Travis gripped Scott's coat. "Not now, bud!…"
"CHIEF, IT'S McSHAY!" Michelle radioed.
"Captain, please tell me you found an exit…!" Stella said with a heavy heart.
Michelle shook her head and answered. She looked over and saw a wall bubbling. "Negative, Chief…"
Flames raged on the ceiling, flaming wood continued collapsing down.
"It's looking really bad in here! Less than a minute, give or take!…" Michelle let go of her radio, with no hope left…
Over with Squad, their efforts seemed hopeless as the shelf blocking their way wouldn't budge.
"Hey! Hey!" Arnold turned to Spinelli. "Ashley!…"
Arnold took his helmet off, letting it drop to the ground. Yanking his mask off as his black fireproof went around his neck. Spinelli raised her eyebrows. "Arnold, what are you doing?!"
Pep followed his gesture, dropping her helmet to the ground and yanking her mask off.
CRASH
CLANG
THRASH
WHOOSH
Metal debris crashed down away from them, the fire continued raging and crackling loudly.
Arnold switched his radio on without having to hold it. "Ashley, baby… You know you mean so much to me!…"
CRASH
CRACKLE
HISS
While wooden debris came crashing down, Spinelli stared at him with a saddening look. "Wh-… Arnold, why… Why'd you take your mask off?"
CRASH
HISS
WHOOSH
CRACK
CRACKLE
More flaming wooden debris came crashing down, blocking off the way more and more.
"So you can hear my voice clear…" Arnold answered, his voice emotional. "Arnold, this- we're- we never give up this easily! C'mon! Get that mask back on and we get out! You too, Pep!" Spinelli answered, her voice breaking.
Arnold put his hands on her shoulders. "You're the best thing that ever happened in my life… Spinelli…"
Spinelli finally took her helmet, dropping it alongside Arnold's and yanking her mask off. Her hair as messy as ever.
"Spinelli, I love you unconditionally… I love you, and I hate that our little girl will be losing both her parents now… She's lost so much… You and Andy are my world…" Arnold emotionally said.
"Not even McShay or Pep will be around to raise her if we're gone…" Arnold said over his open radio.
Cruz looked over to his team with a depressed look and holding back tears. McCaffery, Suarez, and Murray stood there listening to their radios and containing their emotions.
Donovan and Tommy were the only two remaining from Truck… Donovan's emotions got the better of him, knowing his friend from the Academy and Lieutenant risked her own life for him to get out…
"Spinelli, you made me the happiest person alive when we finally got married… I'll never forget the memories we made… Happy, together, holding each other, beside one another…" Arnold continued.
"Don't you dare say this…" Spinelli sniffled and gripped his coat.
KA-BOOM
CRASH
CRACKLE
A fireball flashed and raged, the flames pouring everywhere…
A tear slipped down Arnold's cheek as he cupped Spinelli's face despite having his gloves on.
He nodded and finally gave a small smile. "Ashley Funicello Spinelli… You were my miracle… You were my miracle from the minute we fell in love… You were my miracle… I'm sorry if I ever did anything to hurt you..."
Spinelli gripped onto his coat, gritting her teeth and letting the tears flow down her cheeks…
HISS
WHOOSH
CRACKLE
Flames flashed and crackled to the side of them, a massive firewall forming…
Arnold felt his heart in his throat as he continued. "Hey, Cap…"
"Talk to me…" Michelle's voice was exhausted and heartbroken…
"You're the greatest Captain and friend I could ask for… This entire house was lucky to have you… I'm lucky to have been able to call you one of my closest friends…" Arnold closed his eyes, trying to fight back the tears and emotions.
"You too, Arnold… You were also my miracle…" Michelle was slumped against a wall, her halligan beside her…
"Mom… if we don't make it out… Take care of Andy for us… Make sure she knows who her parents were… who her family is… 55 will be her family and home if we're gone…" Arnold sadly told Stella, who looked down and sniffled, fighting back her emotions. "I'll make sure of it, Arnold… You were the best son I could ever ask for… I love you…" Stella wiped a tear from her eye.
Andy had already lost her biological mother, she was on the brink of losing her father and mother again… She was about to join Dean's daughter in losing both her parents…
Michelle broke down, knowing she had a great bond with Andy during the times she saw her…
With Pep behind him, in heartache, and sadness, Arnold looked Spinelli in the eye. "Ashley Funicello Spinelli… I love you…"
Spinelli broke down in tears, hearing those words that filled her heart with heartbreak, knowing this was possibly the end of the road for them… Sobbing uncontrollably for a moment, Spinelli sharply exhaled, tears coming from her eyes.
Spinelli quickly wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him toward her, sharing one final passionate yet emotional kiss between them… Arnold returned the kiss, tears sliding down his cheeks as he held Spinelli closer to him…
Flames flared up behind them, creating a raging firewall that crackled violently…
With Arnold and Spinelli sharing one more passionate and heart-touching kiss, the flames raging around them…
It transitioned back outside, where the entrance had a raging firewall blocking it off. Shelves were also at the entrance as the vibrant orange lit up the entrance, where the flames continued to rage…