Page 161 of Crystal Iris
“That’s good.”
“Probably won’t be able to walk tomorrow, though.”
He laughs. “I miss you already.”
“Me too.”
“What do you want to do on your birthday?” he asks me.
“Oh… I don’t know… I think it falls on a Thursday. I have to work the next day.”
“I want to take you out, even if it’s just dinner. I know a party isn’t really your thing.”
“Are you coming here?”
“Of course I’m coming.”
“You’ve been traveling a lot.”
“I will be there.”
I smile. “Dinner is perfect.”
I’ve finished my lecture for the day when I receive an email from my department chair.I’m wanted in the office. I know it has to be related to my review. I walk toward it with my head high, even though my stomach twists and my heart sinks with each step. I’ve been too confident, arrogant even. Perhaps I need the lesson. I’ll apologize. I love my job; I realize that now, when it could be in jeopardy.
“You wanted to see me, Turner?” I ask, taking a seat across from the woman I have much respect for. She’s made a name for herself in the field, and I’ve always appreciated her advice. I always thought we got along, and I hope this won’t change things. She’s wearing a classic black dress and her hair is perfectly curled with precision. I’m glad I’m dressed appropriately, in slacks and a sweater.
“As you probably already know, Flynn’s report was… interesting.”
“I can explain—” I start, but she cuts me off.
“Don’t. It’s perfect.”
“What?”
“You are perfect.”
“I don’t understand.”
“We’ve been looking for someone like you for years. Someone who can take this up a notch. We need someone like you at Harvard.”
“Need me?”
“I want you aboard the Art, Film & Culture Faculty Committee. I want you to expand research. We should be doing more when it comes to art here.”
“I don’t know what to say. Thank you, Turner… Can I think about it?”
“Think about it?”
“I have a lot going on in my private life right now. I’m very thankful, and I’ll give you an answer soon.”
“Okay. Iris, opportunities like this don’t come often.”
“I know, I really am extremely grateful.”
“Let me know on Monday.”
My head is spinning. I wasn’t expecting a promotion. I wasn’t even expecting to keep my job. My old self would’ve jumped at the opportunity.
