Page 58 of Huge Dynamite
“It’s not like always, and you shouldn’t be here. We are not a couple, and we haven’t been for a very long time.”
“I invited him, Holly.” My mother nods encouragingly.
“Why?”
“Holly, don’t be rude,” my mother whispers.
Turning to Robert, I ask him directly, “Why did my mother invite you?”
“Because.” My father clears his throat again. “Because we’re worried about you.”
“Worried about me? Why would you be worried about me? I’ve just told you that I’m happy for the first time in my life. For the first time, I am using my gifts for good and helping people. Or at least I will be once the clinic is up and running. I feel fulfilled and actually look forward to waking up in the morning. Can any of you say that?”
Of course, the little ache in my tummy tells me that’s not entirely true. I was at my happiest during those few moments with Seth, and there’s a part of me that’s really sad he’s gone.
“I can.”
Oh, screw you, Robert. “Really?”
“Yes.” Nodding, he smiles at my parents. “And I’m looking forward to next month even more.”
My mother winks in response.
“What? Why?”
Robert lifts his glass in a toast.
“What’s going on here?” Turning my head sideways, I feel like I’m caught in some abstract play where I’m the lead character but also the only one who doesn’t know what the hell is going on. “What’s next month?”
“Well.” Robert places his glass on the table, and then lifts it up and places it down again, moving it back and forth like he’s playing checkers. Rings form on the white tablecloth. “I’ve just given notice at the hospital.”
“What?” Leaning forward, I’m finally interested in something he has to say. “You’re quitting?”
“Yes.”
Suddenly, this has all become very real. No, I don’t want to be with Robert, but I will miss working alongside him. He’s an excellent doctor and could always carry half the workload.
“Wow, Robert, I don’t know what to say. I’ll miss working with you, of course—”
“You don’t have to miss me.”
“No, you cut me off. I didn’t say I was going to missyou, I said I was going to miss working alongside you.”
Not one of them is listening as they toast each other. I don’t even get the chance to ask where he’s going.
“Come on, Holly.” My mother raises her glass. “Let’s toast to the newest—”
“—and only,” Robert interjects.
“—partner in the practice of Boling Cardiothoracic Surgery!” Monica lifts her glass high. “Salut!”
“Salut,” Robert answers.
“What?” Gripping the table hard, I nearly knock over the water goblets. “What did you say?”
Robert grins. “You are looking at your father’s new partner, Holl. Boling and Covens Cardiothoracic Surgery.”
“You’re changing the name?” Looking at my father, I see he’s not smiling quite as much as Monica and Robert. “Dad?”
