Page 79 of More Than My Hometown

“I get it.” As always, her voice is full of understanding. Whether or not she actually gets me and my sudden onset of an internal struggle, who knows. But she can fake it like the best of them. “Contract has an October one start date, but I will need an answer by the twenty-first so we can start the paperwork.”

The twenty-first. A week from today. Doesn’t give me very long, but then again, how much do I really need? A conversation with Ewan, and…oh, who am I kidding, a week is nothing. Especially since we have my grandmother’s birthday party this weekend.

“Yeah, fine,” I tell her. “I’ll have an answer to you by the twenty-first.”

“Sounds good. I’ll email over some of the particulars about this hospital to help you make more of an informed decision. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.”

“I won’t. Thanks, Cathy.”

Ending the call, I slide my phone back into my pocket, inhaling deeply. Reykjavík. Holy shit.

Six weeks ago I would have been ecstatic to get this call. I wouldn’t have had to tell Cathy that I needed to think about it or drag out my answer in any way. I’d have been doing my happy dance long before we got off the phone. My bags would be halfway packed by now.

Instead, I’m standing here, a wild mix of emotions too big to name, unsure of everything. Every last thing. Because six minutes ago I thought I had a new plan. I thought I had it all figured it.

Now the only thing I have is a tailspin.

“Maisey, you okay?” Sawyer asks, stopping in front of me as she makes her way to the front door with a trash bag.

I look at her, blinking hard, trying to focus on her question, but I can’t. I don’t know how to answer that question. My entire world has been turned upside down all over again—for the second time in a matter of weeks. Fuck me.

I need to talk to Ewan…

“Maisey…” Sawyer repeats, dropping the bag and stepping into me. Placing her hands on my biceps, she gives them a squeeze, pulling me back into the moment. “What’s going on?”

“I…” I squeeze my eyes shut and swallow hard, trying to clear the wad of cotton from my throat.

I need to talk to Ewan…

“Heeeey!” Alice calls out, throwing the front door open, her hands full of white, branded, Oh, My Lard! boxes. “I brought pie!”

Good, I’m gonna need it…