Emberly took a bite of scone and studied me closely. “You weren’t really happy before either.”
I groaned, putting my head in my hands. “I don’t know what to do anymore. I’ve fucked everything up.”
Rosamundcackled. “I’ve never heard you curse before. I’ve also never seen you in your night clothes. You must really be struggling.”
“I am,” I admitted.
“All right, then. Here’s what we’re going to do. The semester is almost over. Which means it’s the perfect time. Have you renewed your contract yet?” Emberly asked.
I shook my head.
“Perfect. Tomorrow, we’re going to talk to the dean and you’re turning in your resignation.”
“We?”
“I’ll come with you for support. I mean, I’ll wait outside, but I’ll be there.”
I was speechless. I really didn’t know what to say. Did I want to do this? Absolutely. But was I prepared to deal with the consequences? I didn’t know.
Rosamund took a sip of coffee and set down her cup. “And then, we’re going to the bank to get you a loan for the supplies and furniture you need to get started with the clinic. Then we will get that place rented for you. This is going to be a great week, CeCe.”
Unable to help myself, I gave them a small smile. I had to admit, their enthusiasm was contagious. This is what I had wanted deep down for years. For my entire life, really. What better time than now?
“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but…yes. Okay. Let’s do it.”
Emberly popped out of her seat and pulled me out of my chair into a hug. “This is exactly what needs to happen. I’m sure of it. And you know we will help you in any way. We can have a painting party and get the interior decorated. We’ll help you design it.” She pulled back and wiped away a stray tear I hadn’t realized had escaped. “Okay?”
I sniffled. “Okay.”
“We have to go.” Rosamund rose with her, giving me a hug. “Oh. And make sure you check your mail. It’s piling up.”
They hugged me again and left.
What had just happened? Did I truly agree to quit my job and open a healing clinic for animals? I suppose I did. And I needed to hurry before that location was snatched up. The price was too good to pass up.
Remembering the comment about my mail, I glanced at the pile on my counter. I didn’t see anything of importance, but I thumbed through it anyway until I landed on an envelope with familiar hand writing. My breath caught as I opened it and unfolded the letter.
Hey Sunshine,
You haven’t been answering my calls and I knew showing up unannounced would cause you stress. So here I am, writing you a letter like the fool that I am. I’m truly sorry for any distress I have caused you, especially for making you miss your presentation. I know how much that meant to you.
I’m also sorry for what I said. It isn’t true. I was hurt and angry and lashed out like an idiot. You arenotyour mother, Cerise. You are beautiful and kind and passionate. You are confident and unashamedly bold. Your laugh is my favorite sound in the entire universe and your smiles are brighter than the sun (I miss them so damned much).
A tear rolled down my cheek. I kept reading.
You are undoubtedly the most amazing person I have ever had the honor to know and my world is darker without you in it.
I know you’re probably in your head right now, trying to figure out your next step. Isn’t that peculiar?That I know you so well? Because I feel like I do. And you know me too, sunshine.
So, right now I’m giving you space because that’s exactly what you need. Even though it kills me not to be able to see you. To hold you and kiss you and reassure you.
But I’m not giving up on this, beautiful. I’ll be there when it’s time. So please, take care of yourself and don’t get in your head. You are perfect just the way you are.
Liam
P.S. Don’t forget what I told you. Find your joy and chase it.
I read and re-read the letter, mulling over Emberly and Rosamund’s words as well. Then I stood, looked at Arthur sitting on a chair, and said, “What do you think about being my clinic cat?”
