Page 41 of The Trauma Response
“This one is solid. Low miles, good safety features, and a nice maintenance package from the dealership. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles your old car had, but do you really need those?” Jackson asks.
“I barely used them. This one is great if you think it’s worth the price.” I admit, I’m no haggler.
“I think I can get them to come down a couple thousand. Let me work my charm so we can get out of here and go meet Mom and Dad.”
I nod as he jogs off to annoy the salesman once more and try to mentally prepare myself for meeting with our parents. Ihaven’t been back to their house since I left after the accident. Something about going back again made things feel too real. Admitting to them that I can’t do surgery anymore after all the money they poured into my education, all the support they gave me for so many years…it’s so hard. Deep down, I know they don’t blame me for the accident. I should have paid better attention, though. Taken another way home rather than chance those back roads. But I did what I did, and I’ve paid the price for my mistakes.
I take a deep breath and work to calm my anxious body.
Jackson waves me over with a big, fat grin. I hope it means I’m about to have a new car for way less than the sticker price. “We have a deal,” he says. “Ready for all the paperwork?”
“Sure, let’s get this—hang on,” I say and rummage through my bag for my phone. “Uh, this is my old boss. I wasn’t expecting a call, so can I have a second?”
“Sure, I’ll let them know you’ll take it and they can get things ready.” As he wanders off, I answer.
“Hello, Dr. Frasier.”
“Hi, Tallulah. It’s good to hear your voice. How are you doing?” His sincerity comes through even over the phone.
“You know, about as well as can be expected. What can I do for you?”
“Right to the chase. I always liked that about you, Tulip. I called to float an offer to you. Your experience and skill in the surgical suite were invaluable to this hospital, and I hate to see good talent stymied by fate. I’d love to have you on as a consultant. You’d oversee complicated procedures, confer on surgical plans, you know the workings of that job. What do you think?”
I don’t knowwhatto think. A few weeks ago, I would have leaped at the opportunity to have anything at all to do with surgery, but now maybe not. Would I actually be happy watchingother people perform surgery? Consulting on their plans before they get to go do the healing? More than that, I discover I’m truly, completely content and happy with my new job. I know my answer, and rather than feeling like I’m burning a bridge back into my old life, I smile at the knowledge that I’m building a new one into the next part of it.
“Dr. Frasier, I wholeheartedly appreciate the offer, but I’ve found a job I love. I’m so honored that you thought of me for the position, but I’ll have to decline.”
“Ah, well, it was worth a try. I pray all the best for you, and if you ever need anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re friends; not merely former colleagues.”
“Thank you, Dr. Frasier. I’ll do that. Thanks again.”
“You have a great day, and good luck with the new job, Tulip. Goodbye.”
“Bye,” I say and end my call, light and free with my decision, except I notice I have a flurry of messages from my new boss, which is a little surprising. I open thesixmessages he’s sent me.
Mr. Price
Just got word that Cai was in an accident. Not sure the details. Do you know anything?
Mr. Price
There was a building collapse across town due to a massive fire. Where are you?
Mr. Price
Cai’s engine was in response. Thor got more details. Cai is at the hospital. Are you there?
Mr. Price
Tulip, I’m not sure how bad this is. It’s all over the news. Call me, and I’ll come pick you up!
Mr. Price
I’m heading to your house. Please call me!
Mr. Price
Tulip, where are you? You’re not at your house!
