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“I didn’t want you to talk me out of going.”
“Do you really think I would do that?”
“I know you won’t like me making an hour trip there and an hour back every day. I know that you’ll worry that I’ll leave Willow River and move to Atlanta to be closer to work.”
He’s quiet, and I bite down on my lip. I hear what sounds like a door closing. “I want you to be happy, Alyssa. I know how much your job weighs on you. I’m your person, baby. I want you to talk to me about these things. I’d never hold you back. I just want to be there for you.”
I love you. “Thank you.” I sniff, fighting back the tears.
“Tell me about these jobs?”
“Really?”
He chuckles. “Yes, really. I want to hear everything.”
“Okay. Well, one is for a salon that needs a receptionist. It’s huge. They have, I think she said, thirty stylists. They have two receptionists who take turns at the desk, swapping days, evenings, and every other Saturday. I don’t love the hours, but the lady on the phone was so nice I couldn’t say no, even if it’s just a stepping stone until I figure out my next step. The pay is the same, but with the drive, it would be a pay cut, but it would get me out of the environment that I’m in.”
“That’s true. Money isn’t everything. I know you need to make your bills, but being happy in your career is important. Do you think you’d like working in a salon?”
“Honestly, I’m not sure. I’m hoping being there today will give me a chance to get the vibe of the place.”
“Definitely survey your surroundings and see how nice the stylists seem to be. I’m sure you’ll get introduced to whoever is working today.”
“Yeah, I’d say you’re probably right. That’s a good idea. I don't want to trade one bad situation only to get into another one.”
“Exactly. What about the other one?”
“The other one is at a bank. I’d be a teller. To be honest, I’m not crazy about it, and the pay is something I’m concerned about. The woman who called me for an interview said we could discuss it during the interview. So it could be a waste of time, but at least I’ll know, you know?”
“Yeah.”
“Sterling?”
“Mmm?”
“I’m sorry. I should have been honest with you from the beginning. I didn’t lie, and really, I just omitted the interviews. I am spending the day with my mom,” I remind him.
“Thank you for telling me.”
“You’re not mad at me?”
“No. I’m not mad at you.”
I exhale loudly. “That’s a huge weight off my shoulders.”
“What are you doing with your mom?” he asks.
“Lunch, pedicures, and some shopping. My dad’s on a golfing trip with some buddies, so she’s home alone this weekend.”
“It’s good that you’re spending time with her.”
“Even though you don’t get to see me?”
“I saw you. I held you. It’s not enough, but it will hold me over. Enjoy your day with your mom, and the offer stands for me to come to you, or you can come to my place. Just let me know.”
“Don’t you have plans tonight?”
“Nah. I’m sure I’ll end up with one or more of my brothers, but I’d rather be with you.”
