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But something in his eyes told me that he wanted something more from me. Something I wasn't sure if I could give.
Chapter 25
Dominic
Iwas overlooking the annual plans for the F2 Foundation. Donations were pouring in since our gala and it was exciting to show these philanthropists that their money was making a difference. All while we were able to support our admin side through the earnings on our investment side.
Looking at the numbers almost made me numb. We were all so fucking rich, it was hard to fathom. But yet, we all seemed to know that money didn't buy happiness. Giving it away did. Giving of our time. Having a purpose in life. Kindness. All of that was what floated our boats. No matter how busy we got, the inspiration and the focus of our overall work made it feel like we were just playing in the big sandbox of life.
My office phone rang. I didn't recognize the number showing on the display.
"Dr. Harrington."
"Ah, Dr. Harrington. This is Dr. Al-Sawi."
"Dr. Al-Sawi! What a surprise. I wasn't expecting to hear from you."
"Yes, yes, well, I have some exciting news. Everything is coming together very quickly on our end. We are screening patients so that we can give you the high-level evaluation as we hand over the patient files. We have many excellent candidates."
"How many do you think you have?" I asked, a little worried about where this was going.
"Well, yes, that was my question. I know that you are committing to being here for a week for some pretty intense surgery time. I'm wondering if you could extend that time at all?"
It was definitely not my practice to extend the mission weeks. We had enough patients to be seen here in Boston. Although it sounded cold, sometimes you had to make these kinds of decisions.
"I normally wouldn't, Dr. Al-Sawi. I apologize for that, but as you can imagine, I will have to shuffle all of my patients around to accommodate the week once we can figure out the timing."
"Ahhhh, that is so sad. This means we will have to make some life or death choices."
"I apologize, but yes. Sometimes we do."
"Okay, okay. You will have the patient files this afternoon. Once you decide on who you would like to see, I think it's safe to say you can come in about a month's time."
"A month? I'm surprised. Are you sure?" I sat there, incredulous. This was much faster than I expected.
"Yes, I have pulled some strings at the embassy and within the government. They are eager to get your expertise here."
I exhaled. "Okay, Dr. Al-Sawi. I'll review the patient files as soon as I get them and maybe we can set up some firm logistics. I'll need to make sure we can get the necessary supplies there, depending on what surgeries are required."
"Agreed. And one more thing."
"Yes?"
"The rebels have increased their activity. We are constantly monitoring their movement and threat. There are no guarantees of safety for you or for me, but what I believe is that we are doing necessary work."
I was silent for a moment.
"Dr. Harrington. I wanted to be up front with you about everything. This doesn't change your commitment, does it?"
I realized my commitment when he asked that.
"No. No, it doesn't."
"I will do everything in my power to ensure your safety. We will keep in touch."
I hung up the phone. I had to admit that it all felt a little too fast, too rushed. I had to make sure that all the bases were covered and that I was setting myself up for success. His last comment didn't sit well, but part of me knew this when I started thinking about Somalia as a location.
The boys always bugged me about trying to have control over everything, but I knew I didn't have control over my safety. No one does. We can only take calculated risks, and for some reason, I felt called to Somalia.
