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“A job offer. They want me to move.”
Edna’s eyes scan the paper. She sets it down and smiles. “Congratulations.”
“Don’t congratulate me yet, I haven’t accepted the job.”
“What are you waiting for? Take it from the eighty-year-old neighbor, life is short, and you can’t let opportunities like this pass you by.”
“I can if it means losing Lizzie.”
“If you lose her over something like this, then maybe she wasn’t yours to keep.”
I blink, confused at what Edna is implying. “I don’t understand.”
“Part of being in a relationship is loving the other person with every fiber of your soul. That love is constant. It ebbs and flows with the natural changes of life. I can tell how much you love her because I can see it in your eyes—you’d give up this job for her.”
“In a heartbeat.”
“But you shouldn’t have to. If she truly loves you—and I believe she does—she’ll want what’s best for you. And if this is your dream, Aiden, then she’ll want you to have it. You’re young, and nothing is holding you guys here.”
“My family. Lizzie’s family. You.”
Edna tilts her head and smiles softly. “It humbles me to be part of that group. But we’ll still be here. Just because you leave doesn’t mean you can’t come back. They call it home for a reason.”
“Thank you, Edna.”
“Anytime, dear.” She pats my hand and stands up. “Now, if you really want to thank me, you’ll drop me off at the assisted living center. Apparently, my money means nothing without a signature. I don’t need you to bring me home. After I sign the paperwork, I’m going to stay and visit with a friend. Her son said he’ll bring me home whenever I’m ready.”
“I’d be happy to drop you off.” I grab my keys and help Edna up. When I open the door, I run straight into Calvin.
“Hey, bro. Edna,” he says, giving her a hug. “How are you?”
“I’m good. How are you, Calvin?”
He holds up his left hand, showing off the silver band on his ring finger. “Married.”
“I know,” she says, smiling. “Congratulations. How’s Millie?”
Calvin scratches his head. “She’s wonderful.”
“That’s great. Please tell her I said hello.”
“I will.”
Edna looks up at me. “Visit with your brother. I’ll catch the bus.”
“No, you won’t. I’ll take you.” I look at Calvin. “Can you hang out for a second? I’m going to drop her off in town. I should be back in fifteen or twenty minutes.”
“Sure thing.” Calvin grabs the TV remote and plops down on the couch.
“Make yourself at home.”
He smiles up at me. “I will, thanks. Hey, do you have any soda?”
“In the fridge. Help yourself.”
19
Lizzie
