Page 54 of Mine To Hunt

I thank her again, my voice filled with sincere appreciation. "Thank you Hazel. I’m looking forward to receiving the email."

We exchange a few more polite words before she ends the call, and I sit there for a moment, staring at my phone in disbelief as happiness washes over me.

This feels like a turning point after so many dark days, and the relief of having something positive to focus on makes my chest feel lighter.

I immediately dial Maddie's number, my excitement too much to contain. She answers after a couple of rings, her voice curious. "Ree? Hey, what's going on?"

I cannot hold back my enthusiasm. "Mads, I got the job! The newspaper just called me."

Maddie's reaction is instant and joyful. "Oh my God, Ree! That’s fantastic! I’m so happy for you. Congratulations!"

I laugh, feeling the warmth of her support. "Thanks, Mads. It feels surreal. They said they liked my writing sample, and I start the day after tomorrow."

Al's voice suddenly joins the conversation, muffled at first but clear soon after. "Is that Iris? Maddie, put it on speaker so I can hear properly."

Maddie does as he asks, and Al's congratulations come through loud and clear. "That is awesome news, Ree. A content writer gig? You’re going to nail it. What exactly will you be doing there?"

I explain with growing confidence. "I’ll be writing articles on crime incidents. It’s part-time, so it fits perfectly while I sort out the time off from uni."

Maddie chimes in with more excitement. "See? All that creative writing is paying off. I knew something good would come your way. How are you feeling about starting so soon?"

I pause for a second, honesty slipping in. "A little nervous, but mostly excited. It gives me something to focus on instead of dwelling on all the bad stuff."

Al agrees wholeheartedly. "That makes sense. A fresh routine will help. If you ever need ideas for your articles, bounce them off me. I can even draw some sketches if you need visuals for inspiration."

We all share a laugh at that, and Maddie adds her own encouragement. "Seriously, Ree. This is a big win. We shouldcelebrate. Come over tonight? I can order pizza, and Al can bring dessert."

I consider it, warmth filling me from their invitation. "That sounds tempting, but I think I need to prepare a bit. Maybe this weekend? I promise I’ll fill you in on my first day."

Maddie pretends to pout. "Fine, but hold me to that pizza. And Ree? I’m really proud of you. You've been through hell, and you're still pushing forward."

Al echoes her sentiment. "Yeah, what she said. You're tougher than you give yourself credit for."

Their words touch me deeply, easing some of the lingering anxiety. "Thanks, guys. You two are the best. Talk to you soon."

We hang up, and I spend the next couple of hours reviewing the offer letter and mentally preparing for my new role. The excitement builds steadily, overshadowing the doubts from that hazy night.

~

On my first day, I arrive at The Daily Chronicle’s office a few minutes early, my stomach fluttering with a mix of anticipation and nerves.

As I stand and look up at the brick building, a strange realization hits me. This is the same neighborhood as Dr. Nathaniel’s office. Just two streets over.

For a moment I just stand there, surprised at the coincidence. Out of all the places in the city, the newspaper office and my therapist’s clinic ended up practically next door to each other.

I shake the thought off and push through the doors.

Inside, Hazel spots me immediately, waving me over with a welcoming smile.

"Iris! You made it." Hazel says, extending her hand for a shake. "I’m so glad to see you. Let me show you around and get you settled at your desk."

I shake her hand firmly, relief washing over me at her friendly demeanor. "Thanks, Hazel. I’m excited to be here."

She leads me through the newsroom, pointing out various areas as we go. "This is where the editors sit, and over there is the break room. Your desk is right here in the corner, with a nice view of the street."

I set my bag down, taking in the space. "It looks great. Thank you."

Hazel chuckles as she hands me a stack of files. "This used to be Rowan's desk. He decided to abandon us for a romantic honeymoon vacation with his wife. Can you imagine? Left us scrambling, hence the urgent hiring. But we read your work, and we were genuinely impressed. Your style fits perfectly for crime reporting."