Page 25 of Boyfriend Material
“Yeah. I have to match with a hospital. I’m hoping to stay in Virginia, but I’ll take what I can get.”
“What about Theo?” Betsy asked.
“What about him? We’re dating, not getting married. He knows how important this is for me.”
“You’re not getting any younger. If you wait too long, you won’t be able to get pregnant. I can’t believe you’d dump yourdream boyfriendto go wherever.” Her mom griped.
Livie sighed. It was the same conversation every time she came home. Her mother would never understand. “Yes, I wouldhave to. You go where you’re offered an opening. It’s very competitive and not everyone matches, err, gets chosen.”
“What happens if you don’t get chosen?”
It wasn’t something Livie even considered. She’d been working her butt off to keep at the top of her class. Not matching wasn’t an option. “I will be.”
“I’m sure you will,” Jean said.
Geo must be different with his wife than with anyone else. She was too kind and caring—he didn’t deserve her.
“I’m hoping my roommate, Patience, and I end up matching with the same hospital. It’s a long shot, but her parents are doctors too and they said they’d try to help.”
“That’s great. I’m sure it would be a relief to have someone you know when you’re in that high pressure environment,” Jean said.
Livie nodded. Jean got it. Why couldn’t the rest of them? “Exactly. Although, if we stay in Virginia, Theo will help too when I’m not working forty-eight-hour shifts or sleeping.”
“Just like Grey’s Anatomy, huh?” Betsy said.
“Somewhat, probably.”
“I don’t understand why you want to put yourself through that, when you could be home with your family. We always need more hands. This is your family legacy.” Her mother put the turkey in the bottom oven, then turned with her hands on her hips. “You’re lucky your family has so much. All you do is take it for granted.”
“I don’t, Mom. It’s not in my blood like it is all of you. I’m sorry. I wish you could understand. Maybe it would be best if I didn’t come home anymore,” Livie said, unable to hide her frustration or the tears threatening to fall. It would probably be best if she stayed away.
“No, Aunt Livie. We’d miss you.” Georgie jumped off his chair and ran to her, throwing his arms around her waist. “We love you.”
“It’s okay, George. She’s not leaving.” Jean led him back to the table and reassured him.
There was nothing else to say, though. Livie had reached her limit. Even bringing a boyfriend home hadn’t made a difference. “The bread is ready. Betsy can make the stuffing. I’ll be back, maybe. I’m sure you’ll be able to get everything done without ungrateful me in the way.”
“Olivia June Anderson, don’t you dare walk out of here.” Her mother looked like she was going to have a tantrum. Her cheeks were flushed and her fists clenched.
Livie didn’t know where her bravery was coming from, but if she didn’t get out of the kitchen soon, she’d say something she couldn’t take back.
She glanced at the boys, then at Jean, and mouthed, “Sorry.” Hopefully, the kids wouldn’t be too upset. The temptation to pack up and leave was strong, but Theo was still out with her dad and Geo. Instead, she went upstairs, grabbed a sweatshirt, then went outside to text Patience.
