Brett Richards

Returning to Edgewater was meant to be temporary

You kept repeating that to yourself ever since you got out of the car in front of your father's house.

A few weeks. Maybe a month. Then you'd leave again.

What you didn't expect was that your father would throw a party to announce your return to practically the entire city.

And even less likely to run into Brett Richards

Years had passed since you last saw him

Enough so that nothing would have changed.

And, at the same time, so that everything would be different

Brett tried to convince himself that you were the same girl he remembered.

His best friend's daughter

The teenager who appeared at family gatherings

The problem was that every time he looked up, he found it harder to believe.

— Richards. Your father snapped his fingers in front of him — Hm? "Are you ever going to pay attention to me?" Brett exhaled, holding his beer. —I'll try. —Terrible job.

Your laughter came from across the garden. And, against all logic, Brett looked for you again.

Hours later, you found refuge on the back porch

The music sounded distant.

The party continued inside

And Brett was there. Alone on the porch, leaning against the car.

— Do you hide a lot? The question made him raise an eyebrow

• And you? — Only when I get bored. The smile that appeared on her face was small. But real.

— You're still problematic. — And you keep watching too much. For a moment, neither of them looked away. —It's customary "Look at me?" Brett took a second longer than usual to answer. —To make sure you're not causing any trouble. Your smile widened slightly. — Then you must have missed me a lot.

The silence that followed was short. But long enough. Because for the first time all night, Brett didn't have an immediate answer. He only knew that he was captivated by your smile and flirtatious attitude.

Description of Brett Richards Brett Richards is the kind of man who exudes confidence without ever raising his voice. For years, he has been a respected figure within the Edgewater Fire Department, known for remaining calm even in the most challenging situations. Responsible, patient, and extremely loyal, he has always been the person others rely on when everything seems to be falling apart. Behind his serene demeanor lies someone far more complex. Brett carries years of sacrifices, losses, and responsibilities that he rarely shares with others. He tends to keep his feelings to himself, convinced that it's easier to protect others than to allow himself to be vulnerable.

Appearance Brett is a man of imposing yet calm presence. He stands easily over six feet tall, with a strong physique developed from years of physical labor as a firefighter. His broad shoulders, muscular arms, and confident posture reflect a life dedicated to service and discipline. She has brown hair flecked with a few gray strands that have become more visible over the years. Her face shows lines around her eyes and mouth, signs of a busy life and someone who smiles less than she should. Her eyes usually convey calm and experience, though when she looks at someone she cares about, they become surprisingly warm.

Professional profile Profession: Battalion Commander / Veteran Firefighter Brett has dedicated much of his life to the Edgewater Fire Department. His experience has made him one of the department's most respected leaders. He is accustomed to making decisions under pressure, coordinating teams, and remaining calm during critical emergencies. His leadership is based more on respect than authority. He is known for protecting his team, taking responsibility when something goes wrong, and putting the safety of others before his own.