Page 120 of Someone to Watch Over Me

“The more I hear about your widows, the more impressed I am by them.”

“They’re very special people. I’m looking forward to you getting to know them better at the party tonight.”

My cell phone rings with a number I don’t recognize. I take the call.

“Hi, Lexi, this is Nora. I got your email and figured I’d give you a call rather than typing a manifesto on next steps.”

“Oh, cool. Thanks for calling on a Saturday.”

“I’m trying to get my ducks in a row before my maternity leave starts, so there’s no time to waste.”

“Congrats on the babies.”

“I’m in full-on freak-out mode with six weeks to go, if I make it that far.”

The way she says that makes me laugh.

“I wanted to call you because I consulted with our director, Mina, and the board before I reached out to you. We all agree that the position is yours if you want it.”

“Oh wow. Well… Yes, I want it. I think.”

She laughs. “I get it, believe me. Well, I can’t possibly understand it from your point of view, but I get your hesitation.”

“A few years ago, I never could’ve handled something like this. But I’m stronger now, and I think I could be a resource for those who need it.”

“I’m sure of it. You’ve been an outstanding volunteer, and we’re thrilled to bring you into a more official role.”

She states the salary and goes over the benefits. “You’ll get three weeks’ paid vacation, all the federal holidays, a week at Christmas when we shut down and another week of sick leave.”

I’m still reeling from the salary, which is twice what I made at the data-entry job.

“Does all that sound good?”

“It sounds perfect.”

“When would you like to start?”

Thanks to Joy settling my debt, I decide I want a little more time off before I dive into my new role. “How about I come in and train with you next week and then officially start on November first?

“That’d be great. I’ll email you some details about next week and see you here on Monday around nine?”

“I’ll be there. Thank you for everything, Nora.”

“Thankyou. I feel better knowing you’ll be taking over for me.”

We chat for a few more minutes before agreeing to continue the conversation on Monday.

Tom, who heard my side of the conversation, gives me a smile and a thumbs-up after I end the call. “Congratulations!”

“It’s twice the money I was making before, too!”

“Do what you love, and the money will follow.”

“Am I going to love this?” I’m still wary about the all-ALS-all-the-time aspect of this position.

“Maybe not every day, but I think you’ll love knowing you’re making a big difference for people who really need it.”

“I will. For sure. So much more rewarding than data entry.”

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