Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 9
Back on patrol.
Mounted Division Stables. 0730: two weeks later.

Josie smiled with pride as she watched her ten rookies rode from the stable. She had used every trick in the book to get them ready for today, but she had done it. Standing next to her Captain Mathews and Sergeant Grady nodded their heads as they watched the rookies go through the drills that were the foundation of patrol. Mathews was the first to say anything.

He turned to Josie with a rare, approving smile. “You’ve done well, Cartwright.” Mathews said, his voice low but filled with genuine respect.

The crisp winter sunlight glinted off the horses’ tack as the rookies navigated the arena with newfound confidence, their postures straighter and movements more assured than when they’d first arrived. Josie felt a quiet satisfaction settle over her; the weeks of hard work, the long hours, and the relentless drilling had transformed her team. As the horses circled back toward the rail, Grady gave a short, appreciative whistle, and even the stable hands paused to watch, recognizing the momentous occasion. Josie tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, her eyes never leaving her rookies, ready for whatever challenges lay ahead on patrol.

Grady finally gave his own words of approval as the ten horses and their riders wheeled in place to face their trainer and superiors. “You did some damned fine work Josie. Though I have to ask. Are they ready for actual patrol duty?”

“They’re as ready as the next rookie just starting out, Sir. Though we do have one problem sirs.” Josie told her superiors. At their looks of confusion Josie explained. “With these new officers. We’re short two training officers to complete their training.”

“No we’re not Cartwright. Sergeant Grady will be acting as training officer one, while you’re TO for the other. Now which rookie do you want?” Mathews asked her.

“I’ll take Officer Jenna Reed. She may have the most experience with riding, but she still has a few bad habits that need to be worked out.” Josie told him.

“Okay you got her Training Officer Cartwright.” Captain Mathews said as he handed her, her new stripes. Josie looked down at the twin chevrons with T in his hand with disbelief.

“Sir, I thought I had to be a P-three with three years to be a training officer.” Josie said.

“Normally that would be the case Cartwright, but you more than proved your ability to train new officers.” Mathews’s expression softened just a touch, the corners of his mouth lifting in genuine admiration. “Consider this a field promotion. Your dedication and results speak for themselves.”

Josie accepted the stripes, her fingers trembling slightly with the weight of the new responsibility. Grady clapped her on the shoulder, his grin broadening. “You earned it, Cartwright. Now let’s see if you can shape Reed into a patrol officer we’d all want at our backs.”

“I’ll do my best Sir. Have you decided on which rookie you’re going to take?” Josie asked.

“Which one is your problem child?” Gardy asked with a nasty grin.

“That would be Cornell, Sergeant Gardy. He still thinks that we’re nothing but a ceremonial unit. That we’re not a real patrol unit.” Josie told him honestly.

“Is that so?” Snarled Mathews before asking. “I hope you’re tried to correct his attitude.”

“More than once sir. The problem is Cornell wants to work homicide or vice.” Josie told him then explained. “He just doesn’t see how being part of the Mount Patrol will led to either division.”

“Gardy I need you to take over training Stillman for me. I’ll handle Cornell.” Mathews said.

“No sir. I’ll take Cornell. I’ll also get his head on straight or bounce his ass. My question is why haven’t you bounced his ass Cartwright?” Gardy asked of Josie.

“Simple Sergeant. He learned his lessons and does his job. The kid is a professional. He may not like being here, but he never gave me a reason to write his ass up. Maybe I should say a reason that couldn’t be refuted at a hearing.” Josie explained for Gardy.

“In other words he’s book smart and regulation wise. I take it he’ll step right up to the line but not cross it?” Gardy asked of her.

“Pretty much Sergeant. He knows his rook book forward and backward. What he lacks is the experience to know and where to use that knowledge. He can quote procedures but lacks the common sense for implementing those procedures.” Josie explained.

“Damn. I knew I should have doubled checked the academy recommendation. I should have known he was too good to be true.” Mathews grunted then sighed. “Oh well no use in bitching over spilled milk. Gardy at the first sign of insubordination blue book his ass.”

“Understood sir.” Gardy said before he turned to Josie. “Before we start handing out assignments. Can you tell me why Cornell feels the way he does about the division?”

“It’s simple Sergeant. All the men in his family are cops going clear back to his great grandfather. They’ve all walked a beat somewhere in Boston before moving onto becoming a detective.” Josie explained for Sergeant Gardy who snapped his fingers.

“I thought the name sounded familiar. His brother works homicide out of the Northeastern district. While his father is Captain for SUV in the Southern district.” Gardy told her then turned to Mathews. “Captain I hate to say this, but if I bounce his ass you could be in for a world of shit.”

“You let me deal with the Cornells, Sergeant. If Officer Cornell can’t hack it bounce his fucking ass. We don’t need hot dogs or glory hounds in this division. Am I clear?” Mathews told him before turning to Josie. “Any other troublemakers I should know about Cartwright?”

“No sir. I was able to beat the hero horseshit out of others’ heads. The only reason Reed is still having problems is she learned a lot of bad habits as a kid. She was never really taught how to ride a horse correctly. But I’m sure with a few more weeks of training with me she’ll be one of our best riders.” Josie told him proudly.

“Okay I’m Cartwright I’m counting you. Now, let’s get your trainees ready for their first day on patrol. The rest of the division should be here shortly.” Mathews told her.

“Yes sir. Are you going to pass out their spurs?” Josie asked with a grin.

“Nope I thought I would leave that up to you, Cartwright. You’re their primary instructor for now.” Mathews chuckled before her reached down and picked up a cardboard box. “Shall we graduate your trainees Training Officer Cartwright?”

“Yes sir.” Josie answered with a smile as she turned and open the coral gate. “After you sirs.”

Mathew, Gardy, and Josie stepped to the center of the coral. Once there Josie cleared her throat and called out. “Parade form up!”

The ten trainees quickly wheeled the mounts around and lined them up in a single file line. Once they were in front of the three they turned to face their superiors. Josie smiled as the trainees dismounted as one and moved to stand next to their horse’s head. Josie moved so she was standing ten feet from the center of the line. After setting the box of spurs down next her feet Josie cleared her throat and addressed her ten trainees.

“Officers it is my great honor to welcome you to the ranks of the Baltimore Police’s Horse Mounted Patrol. We are one of the oldest Mounted Patrols in the United States. We have a long and proud history of service to this city. For us the ideal of Protect and Service are not just words written on the side of our saddle blankets. They are a guiding principle. Keep that principle in mind as you leave here and join your Train Officers as you patrol our city parks and streets.” Josie told them in a clear voice. Bending down Josie opened the box and pulled out a set of spurs.

“There is a tradition among my family. It is also one that is carrying on within this unit. It is one that I have given permission by the Captain to continue with you. When I call your name please come forward. Officer Jamie Reed.” Josie said as Sergeant Gardy set up a small stool in front of her. When Jamie was standing in front of Josie she knelt down. “Place your foot on the stool.”

Jamie complied, placing her foot on the stool with nervous anticipation. Josie took one of the gleaming spurs from the box and carefully fastened it onto Jamie’s boot, her movements deliberate and respectful. As she secured the spur, Josie met Jamie’s eyes and gave a reassuring nod, signaling the importance of the moment. The other trainees watched in attentive silence, understanding that this was more than just a ceremony it was a rite of passage into the proud legacy of the Mounted Patrol. When Josie finished, she stepped back and smiled, inviting Jamie to rejoin the line as the next name was called, the tradition continuing with each officer stepping forward to receive their spurs and begin their journey as part of the team.

“Mount up and pass in review.” Josie called out after the last of the trainees had received their spurs. As one the ten trainees mounted their horses and wheeled in place. After circling the coral once they each rode pass Josie, along with the Captain and Sergeant. Josie called out one last time. “Welcome to the ranks of the Mount Patrol Officers.”

After the short ceremony Captain Mathews introduced the trainees to their Training Officers who had finally showed up after morning rollcall. Kelly Ramsy took one look at Jackson and grinned. “Looking good boot. You ready for your first day on patrol?”

“To be honest ma’am. No.” Jackson told her as Josie walked up to them.

“You’re in good hands Jackson. Detective Ramsy knows how to ride and knows what it takes to work the streets from horseback.” Josie told him.

“Yes ma’am. I was kind of hoping to get you as my TO.” Jackson told her honestly.

“The Captain hands out the assignments. Besides, you don’t want to be a rookie to a TO for their first trainee. Cartwright is good Officer, but she has to be a hard ass. Because she has to prove herself as a Training Officer. Where I get to have a little leeway with my trainee.” Kelly told him.

“Then I feel sorry for Reed.” Jackson sad as Reed walked up to join them. “Ready for today Jen?”

“As ready as I can be Mike.” Jenna told him before turning to Josie. “Want me to saddle up Wave Dancer for you ma’am?”

“Do yourself a favor Reed. Stay out of Wave Dancer’s stall. That big boy won’t let just anybody near him. I think only the only people that Morgan trusts are Cartwright, Sergeant Grady, and Lieutenant Albertson.” Ramsy told her bluntly.

“Ramsy is telling you the truth Reed. Stay out of Dancer’s stall until he gets to know you better. He may have been gelded but he still outweighs you by several hundred pounds. Not to mention he’s like all Morgans. They rarely take to more than one rider.” Officer Jim Stone told her as he joined their group with his trainee. “You’re with us Cartwright. We got the North District. Let’s get our partners loaded up.”

“Which area are we patrolling?” Josie asked the older TO.

“You, and Ramsy with your trainees have Druid Hill. I’ve got Johns Hopkins with my trainee along with McGregor with her trainee.” Stone told her.

“Will shit. I need to get moving. Who are you dropping off first, Stone?” Josie asked.

“Ramsy and her partner, so you have some time.” Stone replied. He then addressed his trainee: “Come on, rookie. Let's start with your first lesson, loading the horse trailer.”

Twenty minutes later the eight horse trailer was loaded, and the big truck was pulling out of the stable yard. As they drove through the early morning traffic the officers talked about everything under the sun. Even though the truck was rated to hold one drive and seven passengers the eight officers were still cramped. Stone dropped Ramsy and Jackson off first at the north end of Druid Hill park before driving to the south end to drop off Josie and Reed.

Once they had their mounts unloaded Josie turned to Reed. “Okay Reed let’s get one thing straight from the get go. The standards haven’t changed. I tell you something you treat it like the gospel.”

“Yes ma’am. My job is to shut up and learn.” Reed said as she mounted her Tennessee Walker Sandy. “I do have one question before we start.”

“Why were we dropped off on the north end of the park and not with the other patrol team?” Josie asked her with a smirk. Reed just nodded her head. Josie glanced over at Reed, amusement flickering in her eyes as she answered. “We’re on the south end because this area’s been getting more calls lately. Mostly trespassing and suspicious activity near the tennis courts. They want new eyes and fresh ears out here, so that’s us. Plus, the southern trails are tougher on the horses and riders, so it’s good training for you. Trust me, by the end of the shift, you’ll know every shortcut and muddy crossing this park has to offer.”

As Reed adjusted her reins, she nodded, feeling the anticipation of the day settle over her as they started down the gravel path, their horses’ hooves echoing in the quiet morning air. As they rode through the park they saw more than a few morning fitness junkies running the trails. They also spotted the early morning walkers. A little after ten am they receive a call from dispatch to investigate group of teenagers near the tennis courts.

“Mike-fifteen report to the All Star tennis courts. Report of vandalism in progress. Suspects are teenage minors. Three males and two females. Last seen wearing Holly Oaks school jackets and uniforms. Over.” Dispatch ordered them.

“Mike-fifteen and Mike-sixteen responding.” Josie radioed back then turned to Reed and said. “Let’s go.” Before spurring Wave Dancer into a gallop.

“That’s a long way off ma’am. Are we going to get there in time?” Reed asked as she spurred Sandy to catch up with her TO.

“That’s why we’re not taking the walking trails.” Josie called over her shoulder as they cut across the park avoiding the trails for the tennis courts. When they arrived the teenagers were still there. Only they weren’t vandalizing anything. Two of the boys were playing tennis while the two girls and one boy were watching. Josie rode right to the kids and asked. “Hi kids. What’s going on?”

“Morning officers.” One of the girls said. “Is there something wrong?”

“We received a report of vandalism. You won’t happen to be the ones who reported the vandalism?” Josie asked the teenagers.

“Yes ma’am. John called it in when we first arrived.” The boy with the girls told them.

“Okay kids. Where is the vandalism?” Josie asked them.

“The fence on the far side of the courts has been cut. See.” The other girl said as she pointed. Josie looked to where the girl was pointing and spotted the section the girl was talking about.

“Thank you. Would you know why our dispatcher would give your description as possible suspects?” Josie asked the teens.

“Oh sure, there was an old man walking by here and he accused us of cutting the fence. The old bastard didn’t believe we had the day off from school.” The boy told her.

“That was my next question. Now why are you all here?” Josie asked them.

“We’re all part of the tennis teams. The courts here are free to use. With no school we thought we’d get in a little practice.” The boy told her.

“Okay this is what is going to happen. I’m going to take your names while my partner investigates the cut fence.” Josie told them before looking over at Reed. “Get pictures of the damn and write it up in your patrol logbook. Then call it in to dispatch.”

“Yes ma’am.” Reed said and rode around the tennis courts to the other side.

While Reed pedaled away, Josie pulled out her notepad and pen, motioning for the group to gather closer. “Let’s start with names,” Josie said, her tone professional but not unkind. Each teen introduced themselves in turn, offering first and last names as Josie jotted them down. She glanced up occasionally, gauging their demeanor for any hint of nerves beyond the expected discomfort of the situation, then offered a brief reassuring nod before flipping to a new page, ready to note any other relevant details they might provide. On the other side of the courts Reed was busy taking pictures and documenting the damage to the fence.

“Has anyone else been around here today? Maybe someone acting suspicious?” she prompted, keeping her tone even. The group looked at each other and then shook their heads. “No, just us,” one of the girls replied. Josie nodded, jotting that down, then offered, “Alright, thanks for your cooperation. We just need to be thorough.”

Josie looked over at Reed and called out. “You about done Reed?”

“Yes ma’am.” Reed called back as she remounted her horse. “Should I call this in?”

Josie gave a quick nod, her attention still on the teens, and replied, “Yes, go ahead. Let dispatch know we have the scene documented and that the suspects are cooperative but have solid alibis. I’ll finish up here.” Reed rode off toward the edge of the courts, radio in hand, while Josie tucked her notepad away and offered the teens a small, appreciative smile.

“You’re all set for now. If we need anything else, we’ll be in touch. Enjoy your practice.” As the group dispersed, Josie took a moment to scan the area once more, her gaze lingering on the damaged fence before she remounted and turned to join Reed, already relaying the details to dispatch, her voice steady through the crackle of the radio. Josie waited until Reed was done before getting her attention. “Tell me what did you forget?”

Reed took a few minutes to collect her thoughts before answering. “Sorry ma’am. I can’t think of what I might have forgotten.”

“You forgotten to call us back in service.” Josie told her then keyed her radio. “Mike-fifteen we’re ten-eight at the All Star tennis courts. Over.”

“Copy Mike fifteen.” The dispatcher responded.

“Back to work.” Josie told Reed and turned Wave Dancer towards the trail around the lake. As they rode Reed asked a question Josie was expecting.

“Officer Cartwright is it true you could have retired last year?” Reed asked out of the blue.

“Yes it’s true. Why do you want to know?” Josie asked her.

Reed hesitated, choosing her words thoughtfully. “I guess I was just curious. You haven’t been on duty for very long, and everyone says you don’t have to be out here unless you want to. I was wondering what keeps you coming back.”

“Do you remember what I said at your graduation ceremony this morning?” Josie asked her.

“That we’re part of a proud and honorable tradition.” Reed answered.

“Exactly. Only for me it more than just being part of the division Reed. In many ways I’m like Cornell. My family have been members of the Baltimore PD going back to the turn of the last century. There’s been a Cartwright on the Mounted Patrol for as long as there has been a Mounted Patrol. For us it is a family tradition.” Josie told Reed with pride.

“So being a cop is in your blood?” Reed asked with a grin.

“It’s all I ever wanted to be. I was even an MP in the army. Even after three tours of duty in Afghanistan. All I wanted be was a police officer.” Josie told her the asked. “What about you? Did you want to be something else?”

“I wanted to be a lawyer, but I ran out of money after three years. I couldn’t afford the next two years to finish off my degree. So I decided to put what education I did have to use as a police officer.” Reed told Josie as the worked their way around the lake. “Why are we using the trails to get back to where we were? Why not just cut back across the way we came?”

“Because Ramsy and her partner are covering the area we left and are now working their way back towards us using the trails on the north side. This way we still cover our assigned patrol route. Besides we might come cross the dipshits that cut the fence by working our way around the lake.” Josie explained for her.

“I didn’t think about that.” Reed told her then asked. “Do we always work in pairs in the parks?”

“We almost always work in pairs no matter what our patrol route. Even when we work the downtown patrol area. The only time we work on our own is during the summer months. Even then there is always another officer in the same patrol area.” Josie said then went on to explain the procedures for single patrols. Josie glanced ahead as they rode, the rhythmic clop of their horses filling the quiet between them.

“It’s mostly about safety, but also about having someone to help if things get complicated,” she added. “Patrolling alone in the parks during summer means you need to keep your radio handy and check in more often dispatch keeps a closer eye on you. Procedures change a bit, but you’re never truly by yourself. There’s always backup close by, whether you see them or not.”

Reed nodded, considering Josie’s words. “That makes sense. I guess knowing someone’s got your back lets you focus on the job instead of worrying about what might happen.” She glanced at Josie, her expression thoughtful. “It’s reassuring, especially since I’m still learning the ropes.”

“Which is why all rookies are teamed with a TO for their first year. Believe me Reed the academy doesn’t come close to preparing you for the streets. It’s also why every officer has to have at least one year on patrol before they can be pulled for UC work. There’s just so much you can only learn by being out here, day after day, seeing how things really work and how people react. The academy gives you the basics, but it’s experience, the real, sometimes messy kind, that teaches you how to trust your gut, handle the unexpected, and keep both yourself and your partner safe. You start to pick up on things, little cues in the way people talk or move, stuff no textbook could ever teach. That’s why the department takes mentoring and field training so seriously, we’re not just following rules, we’re building instincts that can make all the difference in a tough spot.” Josie told her as they neared a group of men working on the railings. “Take these guys. What can you tell me about them just from looking at them?”

“They look like every other park worker. Why what am I missing?” Reed said as they neared the men.

“For starters no safety barrier or warning signs.” Josie said as she reigned Wave Dance to a stop. “Can I see your work order gentlemen?”

“Sure thing officer.” The foreman said as he reached into a wheelbarrow. Josie kept her eyes on the other men as the foreman handed her a clipboard. “Got orders to replace fifty feet of railing.”

“Where’s your warning tape?” Josie asked him.

“Just got here officer. The work truck is coming back with the new railing and the rest of the gear we need to make the repairs. Figured we’d inspect the railings figure out which ones actually need replacement while we waited officer.” The foreman told her.

“Thank you for explaining sir. Sorry for interrupting your work. We’ve been getting reports of a crew of muggers posing as a park work detail working this area.” Josie told the man as she handed back the clipboard. “Be sure to get the work in progress signs up.”

“You’re welcome. We’ll get the warning signs as soon as the work truck gets back.” The foreman told her then asked. “Is there anything else we can help you with?”

“No sir. This just a safety check. You all have a good day.” Josie told him before turning to Reed. “Let’s go Reed. We still got a lot of area to cover before lunch.”

With that the two rode on leaving the work crew to their job. As they neared the north end of the park their radios crackled. “All unit in the Television Hill area. Active shooter in progress at Retro Wolf Enterprises. All responding unit identify.”

“Mike-fifteen responding.” Josie radioed in and turned to Reed. “Let’s go rookie.”

Without warning Josie spurred Wave Dancer into a gallop. It took Reed a few seconds to realize they were responding to the call. Once she caught up to Josie she asked. “Are we really do this?”

“Of course we are. This is what we do as police officers. We ride to the sound the of gunfire.” Josie snapped as she make the turn onto Druid Park dr. They were half a block away from Retro Wolf Enterprise when they came under fire from the suspect. Both officers reigned mounts to stop in the middle of the street before dismounting to return fire.

Reed darted behind a parked car, adrenaline surging as bullets chipped the pavement near her boots. Josie, keeping low, shouted for backup into her radio before signaling Reed to circle around the suspect's position. The street echoed with gunfire as pedestrians scattered for cover, a sense of urgency thick in the air. Reed moved quickly, flanking left, determined not to lose sight of Josie or let fear take hold. Together, they pressed forward, methodically advancing toward the front entrance of Retro Wolf Enterprises, ready to bring the chaos to an end and restore safety to the neighborhood. Their suspect was armed with an illegally modified AK-47.

Despite the danger, both officers maintained their composure, relying on their training and trust in each other. Josie covered Reed’s advance, firing controlled shoots to keep the suspect pinned down. Reed found a moment to radio their location and request additional units and medical support, aware that any hesitation could mean more civilian casualties. The crack of gunfire was relentless, but Josie and Reed moved with purpose, each step taken with the determination to end the threat and protect those caught in the crossfire.

In a stroke of luck while the suspect was firing at Reed, Josie placed two rounds in the center of the suspect’s chest. The man went down from his wounds. Reed rushed forward and kicked the AK-47 out of the man’s reach. Josie stayed where she was covering Reed until the man was disarmed then rushed forward to help her roll the man over and place in handcuffs. By the time backup arrived, they had the shooter secured.

“Officer Cartwright have you secured the scene inside yet?” A Lieutenant for SWAT asked her as he walked up to her and Reed.

“Not yet sir. We just now secured the suspect. I have no idea what the inside looks like.” Josie told the Lieutenant honestly.

“Baker, Monroe, Houseman, secure the inside. Billings, Thornberry, Norse, Willings, secure the two, three, and four sides. Stay liquid people.” The SWAT Lieutenant called out.

As the SWAT teams swept past, Josie and Reed exchanged a quick glance, both feeling the rush of adrenaline begin to ebb as order started to return to the chaotic scene. Josie kept her eyes on the suspect, ever vigilant, while Reed secured their horses. Josie provided the necessary details to responding officers, ensuring that medics were guided in safely. Around them, the sound of boots thudded against concrete and clipped orders echoed as officers moved to clear Retro Wolf Enterprises, their focus unwavering. The once frantic street now buzzed with controlled urgency, and Josie allowed herself a deep breath, knowing they had played their part in ending the threat and keeping the neighborhood safe. A few minutes later the scene was declared secure.

After the paramedics examined the suspect they looked up at Reed and Josie. “He’s dead. Whichever one of you shot him took out his heart.”

Josie nodded grimly, the weight of the paramedic’s words settling heavy in the cooling evening air. Josie kept her gaze steady, jaw set as she watched the scene unfold. Around them, officers taped off the perimeter and began canvassing for witnesses, their movements measured now that the immediate threat was gone.

Reed took a moment to steady her breathing, then moved to check on the shaken bystanders huddled nearby, offering reassurance and making sure they received medical attention if needed. Josie remained near the suspect, her posture alert, ready to relay details of the incident to the detectives who had just arrived. The sound of distant sirens faded as order returned to Druid Park Drive, and both officers knew the day’s events would linger long after the streets emptied, etched into their memories as another chapter in the unpredictable life of patrol.

Josie was surprised when the detectives for Internal Affairs Force Investigation Division cleared her of any wrongdoing at the scene of the shooting. When she asked them why they just pointed to her bodycam. “These new bodycams stream directly to the servers downtown. Thanks to that we can practically watch everything go down in real time.”

The immediacy of technology’s role in modern policing struck Josie; the transparency provided by the bodycam footage had not only protected her but also reinforced the trust between officers and their community. Josie wasn’t surprised when Sergeant Gardy showed up with one of the rigs. “Load your mounts up, Cartwright. The both of you are on desk duty for the rest of the day.”

“Yes sir.” Josie said as she looked around for Reed and their horses. “Reed! Bring the horses. We’re headed back to the station.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Reed called back before fetching the two horses. As she neared the trailer Sergeant Gardy stopped her and checked out both horses. Reed asked him why. “Is something wrong sir?”

“No nothings wrong Officer. I’m just checking out your partners for wounds. With the amount of gun play I’m surprised neither of your partners were hit.” Gardy told her.

“We got lucky Sergeant. The asshole may have been armed with an AK, but he had absolutely no control of it. The guy was latterly spraying and praying. We were able to get out partners behind cars before he got a good bead on us.” Josie told him.

“Then we really got lucky. An AK packs enough punch to kill one of our horses with just a few rounds.” Gardy told them then asked. “Has FID cleared you Cartwright?”

“They took one look at the bodycam footage and cleared me Sergeant. Not that it would have mattered. The smuck killed eight people and injured another three inside. According to the SWAT guys there was no way the suspect was going to be taken alive.” Josie told him.

“Okay. This is what is going to happen. First we’ll take your partners back to the stable. From there you’ll both report to the station where you’ll spend the rest of the shift filling out your incident reports. Once those have been taken care of you’re off for the rest of the day.” Sergeant Gardy told them as Reed lowered trailer’s ramp. Once the horses were loaded they left the scene.

With the horses secure and the scene left behind, Josie and Reed drove back through the city’s quieting streets, the tension of the evening slowly giving way to a heavy fatigue. At the stable, they moved with practiced efficiency, tending to their mounts and exchanging a few quiet words, then headed for the station where the familiar routine of paperwork awaited. The atmosphere inside the station was subdued, punctuated by the low hum of conversation and the soft clicking of keyboards as they recounted every detail of the incident for the official record.

Though exhaustion tugged at them, both officers knew that this diligence was essential for accountability and closure. As the last rays of daylight faded, Josie and Reed began the meticulous process of documentation, writing statements, reviewing footage, and answering questions from supervisors and detectives. The weight of responsibility lingered, but was tempered by the knowledge that, tonight, their training, resolve, and teamwork had safeguarded lives and upheld the integrity of their department.

They were well into the second shift by the time they had finished their reports. As they headed for the locker room to change they were meet by the rest of the women on their shift leaving for the day. Sally was the first to say anything. “Hey, hey. It’s the heroes of the hour. Nice work out there today girls. Who took the shooter down?”

“I took him, Sally. I’ll be honest. For a moment there I thought I was back in the Sandbox on Red Route four with the mount of fire we were taking.” Josie admitted.

“Oh shit. I’m surprised you’re not curled up in a ball somewhere.” Carrie said with sympathy.

“Give me another hour and I just might be. As it is I’m thinking about a fifth of Jim Bean and a quite evening at home.” Josie told her honestly.

“You’re not drinking alone and you’re not spending the night alone, Josie.” Kelly told her as she followed Josie to her locker. “You’re coming home with me.”

“I’m good Kelly. Reed is the one who needs the support more than me. The kid still has a bad case of the shakes.” Josie told her friend quietly.

“Don’t worry about her. I overheard her classmates are taking her out to get drunk then ack to her place.” Kelly told her just as quietly.

“Thanks for tell me that. I was worried the kid might not have anyone.” Josie told her.

“So what are your plans for tonight?” Kelly asked her.

“Like I said earlier. A fifth of Jim Bean and a quiet evening of listening to class rock on my favorite radio station.” Josie confessed.

“Will I got to admit. So far you have the better first of TO duty. I know it beats the hell out of mine.” Kelly told her with chuckle.

“Are we comparing first TO days?” Carrie asked as she stepped around the row of lockers.

“Not yet, but you got to admit that Josie has one of the top ten.” Kelly chuckled.

“So far she has two tens for first days.” June said as she joined them.

“You can say that again. I mean on her first day with us she responded to a possible bomb theat. She also out rode the Captain.” Sally said with a chuckle.

“How about we all head over to Josie’s place for a night of drinks and bullshit?” Carrie suggested. Before Josie could shut the idea down the rest of the female officers agreed and Kelly was giving them directions to josie’s apartment building.

When she went to complain Kelly gave Josie a reassuring smile. Josie knew that Kelly was only doing this for her own good. Josie knew that Kelly’s presence would be a quiet comfort as they both started gathering their things. The station’s fluorescent lights cast long shadows as the pair made their way out, their footsteps echoing softly in the near-empty hallway. Outside, the air was cool and still, a welcome contrast to the adrenaline-fueled chaos of the day. Josie glanced back at the building, letting out a slow breath, grateful for the camaraderie that helped carry them through the hardest moments. With the prospect of a quiet night ahead and the knowledge that Reed would be looked after, Josie felt a measure of relief settle in, allowing herself to finally begin to unwind.

-----tbc-----