Page 28 of Things We Do for Love and Science
“Argh.” Sandra doubled over and made retching noises.
Delia burst into giggles. It was no use; she could never be angry with Sandra for more than two minutes.
“Listen.” Sandra’s tone sobered. “I need to tell you something...”
“Sounds ominous. Keep going.”
“I’m thinking of moving back to Germany.”
“Oh no.” Delia covered her mouth with her hand. “Sorry I should be more supportive, but from my selfish vantage point, it’s a disaster.”
“Ah, Delia.” Sandra wrapped her in a tight hug. “I was never going to stay in Renwood indefinitely. There’s no scope for me here.”
“Yes, we’re too small. Can’t deny it.” Delia pressed her lips together.
“And let’s face it. Our boss is a jerk who treats us like servants. Did I tell you that John drafted me in at the last minute to sort out the funding application after his precious nephew messed it up?” Sandra scowled.
“I’m not surprised. You predicted it after all.”
“You bet. Pissed me off to no end. I didn’t come to this university to mop up after a lazy nepo-baby-scientist. But my job isn’t the only reason for leaving.” Sandra’s expression cleared. “My parents aren’t getting any younger, and my sister is expecting a baby. I want to be around for that.”
“Of course, I understand.” Delia battled with a lump that had formed in her throat. Her closest friend was going to leave, but she needed to rally. “What’s the job market like over there?”
Sandra’s eyes lit with fervor. “I spotted this really interesting job at the Max-Planck-Institute. It’s a long shot, but I’m going to apply anyway.”
“What area?”
Sandra glowed with enthusiasm. “Cellular structural biochemistry.”
“Damn, that’s an interesting topic,” Delia conceded. “You’re an excellent scientist. They’d be lucky to have you.”
“Thank you.” Sandra beamed at her. “I may need you to write me a reference.”
“Sure thing. It’ll be glowing without me having to exaggerate. But before you start planning your exit, make sure to visit me a few times—not just nights out for drinks. It’s impossible to have a proper conversation in a noisy club.”
“Yes, my dear recluse.” Sandra promised. “Now wish me luck.”
Delia put both hands on her friend’s shoulders. “I fully support your ambition, and having you languish in Renwood is not an option. There, see how selfless I am?”
“Astounding.” Sandra chuckled. “Now let’s head to the canteen. We deserve some lunch.”
~ * ~
Gabriel was waitingfor Delia at the open gate to the park. His gaze followed an excited Renoir as he raced back and forth along the path at full tilt. When the panting wolfhound came to a halt beside him, he patted his flank. “Calm down, buddy, she’ll be here in a minute.”
He looked up when Delia’s Fiat approached. She parked her car in the driveway of the gatehouse, got out, and ran to them.
“Hello there.” She hugged Gabriel, then squatted to pet Renoir.
“Hi, Delia,” Gabriel replied.
He was no early riser by nature, but when she’d suggested a morning run, he’d agreed without a second thought. Because it was spring, the weather was sunny, the birds vocal, the air fragrant, and for the first time in months, he felt alive and well.
She inhaled deeply, opened her arms wide, and twirled. “On days like this, I’m happy I don’t have a pollen allergy.”
He laughed. “The park is lovely at this time of year.”
They started running. Renoir sped ahead.
