145 The call (1/2)

The next day in the afternoon, Ira and Reeya were in the theater hall watching a movie when Reeya's pager went off.

”Beep-Beep,”

The tone was loud enough to turn the entire hall into a frenzy.

'It's time!'

For a moment, Ira felt a weight crushing her. A weight of responsibility. She patted her chest to calm her concerns.

'You can do it!' She encouraged herself.

I will pull you out even if you stand at the death door.

Since she knew her fate, it became her obligation. If she fails today, blame, and condemnation belongs to her.

If you couldn't save a person you could, imagine the helplessness and remorse. How would you survive with the guilt?

If only Reeya knew, she would understand Ira's state of mind better than anyone. When someone's life and death are in your hands, it's more of a burden.

Firefighters go through this emotion all the time.

Through life, loss, and tragedy. Through insomnia injury and depression.

They have to deal with the guilt — the constant mental playback, wondering if only I were a bit faster, a little better, a bit more poised, a little more heroic.

'Beep-Beep...County fire dispatch to station one. Priority One A building collapsed. 34 Street, 2197. Time out: 3:30 pm.'

”I got a call. I have to go.” Reeya stood up from the seat.

As she turned and prepared to leave, Ira clutched her sleeve. ”I'll drop you.”

Reeya nodded, and they exited the theater.

'Why didn't I bring my car?' She cursed herself.

When they met Ira insisted on a movie. She agreed with the condition that the movie hall was near her fire station. Still, it would take over five minutes to reach the station. Her coworkers would have already reached the spot. She couldn't make it to on time.

”Let's drive to the scene directly and catch up with other firemen,” Ira advised.

”Hmm. ,”

Beep-Beep...