Library Security, Episode 4

Colton and Aisha were at the bar sharing a drink after work.  "Nothing beats a cold beer after work," Colton said.

"Amen to that," Aisha agreed.

They toasted and took a sip.

"Can I ask you something, Colton?"

He was always willing to impart wisdom when possible.  "Fire away."

"You've been in this line of work for a while, right?"

"Twenty years."

Aisha swigged some beer.  "You ever shoot anyone?"

He slumped his shoulders and looked down.

"Hey," Aisha said.  "Is something wrong?"

"To answer your question, no.  I've never shot anyone.  A good man would still be here if I did."

Aisha put down her beer.  "You don't have to tell me if it's too much."

Colton put down his beer.  "No.  It'll be a good lesson about what it means every time we put on the uniform."  He looked at her.  "Ready?"

Aisha nodded.

He took a swig before he began.  "It was twenty years ago.  I was training at HQ, not even a real library security guard yet.  My trainer and I were in the shooting range practicing.  Suddenly, one of the other guys came in and started an argument with my instructor.  My instructor set his gun down and tried to calm things down, but it didn't work.  The guy wouldn't listen to reason.  With me just being a trainee, I chose not to interfere."

He took another swig.  "My instructor turned to apologize me for having to witness this.  That when the other guy picked up my instructor's gun and shot him in the head.  Others heard the shot and came rushing in.  He gave up and was taken to jail.  The instructor...didn't make it."

Aisha's eyes widened as she raised her hand up to her mouth.  "Oh my god..."

"The paramedics came, but he was already dead by the time they got there.  I watched a good man die and did nothing about it."

"You couldn't...," Aisha said.

"I could have," Colton said.  "I still had my gun.  I saw him going for the gun.  I was a good marksman.  I had the shot...and didn't take it.  I had the gun in my hand, didn't use it, and someone paid the price."

"Oh, Colton..."

"That's when I decided to become the best library security guard I could be.  I wouldn't hesitate.  Hesitation only gets people hurt.  Decisive action saves the day every time."

Aisha took a drink.  "I think I understand.  Library security guards carry a bigger burden then I thought.  So...you okay?"

"Yeah.  I can't forget it, but it doesn't hurt.  Anymore.  It's the source of my strength, in fact."

They finished their drinks and left the bar.  "Well, I'll see you aroun, Aisha."

"Yeah," she replied.  "Oh, and I promise I won't be a burden to you.  I'll be the best library security guard I can be."

Colton nodded.  "Glad to hear it."

They separated and went home.