Page 35 of Last Call

“Maybe, but it doesn’t feel like it’s a challenge.”

“And conquering a challenge is what makes you feel accomplished.”

“I guess,” Fallon admitted.

“Is this what makes you reluctant to consider opening a business as a ski instructor?”

“Maybe it is—partly.”

“And the other parts?”

“Riley, we’re talking about having a baby.”

“And?”

“And if I start a new business, it will take me away from home.”

Riley took a deep breath, exhaled slowly, and smiled. “I need you to hear me. Just listen to me. Okay?”

Fallon nodded.

“When we welcome a new baby, I want to step back.”

Fallon’s brow knitted.

“From working,” Riley said.

“You can do that now.”

“I asked you to listen to me.”

“Sorry.”

“It’s okay. You think I don’t understand howyoufeel about starting something new. Iknowyou. I love you for who you are. Many things come more easily for you than they do for most people.”

“I don’t think that’s true.”

“Itistrue. You’re naturally coordinated and intelligent. You’re also curious. But it’s the effort you put into things that makes you successful, including the things you enjoy. I know how much Murphy’s means to you, and I also know all the reasons why. What it meant to your dad and what he meant to you was the catalyst for you to take on that project. It’s become a gathering place for the people you love most. Learning to structure, design, and operate a restaurant wasn’tyour childhood dream. It’s not something you knew about when you started. You had to work at it, and it presented constant challenges for you to maneuver and conquer. I know the sense of pride you feel. You gave Carol a chance, taught her what you learned, and be honest—shehas the talent for the business. She worries she’ll overstep. The truth is that you take a lot of pride in how terrific she’s been for that place.”

Fallon smiled.

“Murphy’s isn’t a challenge for you any longer,” Riley said. “You need something new, babe.”

“What does that have to do with you stepping back?”

“I need something, too. I’ve always worked. The truth is that meeting deadlines can be challenging. I feel torn constantly. I don’t want to feel that way when there are two children in our house.”

“Riley, you can quit your job whenever you’re ready.”

“You need a challenge. Ihatefeeling dependent on anyone.”

“You don’t say?” Fallon asked lightly.

Riley groaned.

“I know you, too,” Fallon offered. “I’ll support whatever you choose,” she said. “Are you sure about this?”

“I am. I can’t explain it.”

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