Page 77 of In Death, Love Survives
“Thank you. It’s to head their medical unit.”
“That’s a fantastic opportunity. Bower State has so many more resources than we do.”
Ryan’s smile grows, as if I’m unaware of what he’s getting at.
“I’m glad you think so. They have an immediate opening for a position in their psychiatry wing. I put your name in for it, and they want to offer it to you.”
“What?” I screech.
Ryan laughs darkly as he pulls at the white lab coat he still has on.
“I know, right? Exciting is putting it mildly.”
I sit up straight and put my hand out to stop him.
“Ryan. While I appreciate this opportunity, I don’t want to transfer to Bower State.”
Ryan’s smile fades, and something more sinister takes over.
“Why?” he asks angrily.
“My work is here. My home is here. I’m not ready to pack up and leave.”
Ryan’s expression turns to one of concern.
“Nova. You have to get out of here. Roper State isn’t right for you.”
“How do you know what’s right for me?” I ask as I stand.
He gets up, too, and steps out to the side of the desk.
“Please. Just think about it. Take the next few days?”
I let out a loud sigh as I pinch the bridge of my nose. After a moment, I try my best to smile at my old friend, who I just can’t figure out these days.
“I will, but my answer won’t change.”
“Tell me on Monday.”
“Okay.”
Ryan takes that as his cue and starts to leave my office. He pauses in the doorway and looks back at me almost defeatedly. I give him a small, strained smile, and he knocks on the door, then disappears.
Alone again, I’m more confused than ever by what his role is here and why he’s trying to get me to leave. I really don’t understand why he thought I would be following him to Bower State.
Nothing has been making sense lately.
As I sit back at my desk, I debate whether to wait around for a chance to see Wolfe or just call it a day and head home.
Home.
I’m not even sure that’s what I should be calling it as of late. With Wolfe in the picture, it’s brought forth a lot of issues that I’ve stifled for a long time.
Maybe I’m not even sure what home really is and haven’t in ages.
Deciding to pack up, I gather my few belongings and leave behind any work I would usually bring home.
One night at home, just trying to be, is probably a good thing for me to do. No distractions of Wolfe or work, just by myself.
