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Last night’s voicemail keeps playing on repeat in my head. I still haven’t called Sakina back, even though it’s unlike me to procrastinate.
I arrange the flyers neatly on the table, making sure they catch the eye of anyone who passes by. And then I prop up the poster board, showing off a beautiful picture of the pond, its crystal-clear waters and lush greenery.
A few people stop by, asking questions and showing interest in the pond. I answer their inquiries and hand out flyers, tellingthem about the danger that the land is in and asking them to sign the petition.
The work gives me a sense of satisfaction, but there’s still a knot in my stomach. I haven’t told Josh about Sakina’s call yet, because I still don’t know what I’ll do about it.
A part of me wants to be back in San Antonio, but another part wants to stay right where I am.
Well, not in the exact spot. I have no intention of living with my parents.
But I could rent a house in town. And, if things keep going well with me and Josh, maybe move in with him one day. At that point, who knows what will be going on in our lives?
As the farmers market ends, I pack up and load everything into my car. I have plans to be at Josh’s for lunch, and my insides are a mess thinking about how to bring this topic up with him.
Should I even bring it up at all? It’s my choice, not his, but whether I stay or not depends a lot on how he feels about it.
Okay, let’s be honest. It depends entirely on how he feels about it.
Once I’m sitting in my car, I turn on the AC and finally call Sakina back. At this point, it’s been so long that she’s probably wondering if I even have cell service.
“Erin,” she answers. “How are you?”
“I’m doing well, thank you. How about you?” I reply, trying to sound as composed as possible.
“I’m good, thanks for asking. So, how has your break been treating you?”
“It’s been good so far. I’ve been busy with a project for some land here, trying to gather support and raise funds for it,” I say.
“That’s great to hear. Speaking of work, I know this is a bit sudden, but I wanted to discuss something with you,” Sakina says, and I can hear the hesitation in her voice.
“Sure, what is it?” I ask, my heart rate increasing with each passing second.
“I’m opening a second office in San Antonio, and I’d like you to lead it.”
My jaw literally drops. The practice is opening a second location?
“As you know,” Sakina continues, “we receive more patient requests than we can accommodate. A building I’ve had my eye on for a while just became available, and the timing is perfect, so I went for it. What do you say? You would be the head doctor there. I would stay out of your hair as much as possible. You would be working more hours, but you would be in the hospital less and I think it would help you find more balance in your days. As you know, being in the office isn’t as stressful.” She chuckles.
“I…” I work my mouth around, but I’m at a loss for words.
What Sakina is proposing sounds like a dream. But it’s also a commitment.
When would I have time to return to Fort Williams to visit Josh?
A minute ago I was feeling like I didn’t want to leave Fort Williams at all.
But now, with this opportunity in front of me, my mind is racing. To have my own practice in San Antonio would be a dream cometrue. And it would be a great chance to grow my career, taking on new challenges and expanding my expertise.
But what about Josh? How would he feel about it?
I take a deep breath, trying to clear my head, and say, “Sakina, I’m honored by the offer. It’s a huge opportunity, and I appreciate you thinking of me. But I need some time to think it over. Can I get back to you tomorrow?”
“Of course, Erin. I understand this is a big decision. But please do let me know soon, as there are other candidates I’m considering.”
“Understood. Thank you, Sakina. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”
I end the call and sit in my car for a few minutes, mulling over Sakina’s offer. My mind is racing with thoughts and emotions, trying to decide what the best course of action would be.
