Page 40 of I Survived and will rise again

A sense of relief floods through me. I turn toward Derick, who gives me a reassuring nod, indicating his approval.

"Wherever you go, I go," he says, filling me with a sense of security and comfort. I know that no matter what, Derick always has my back, and I have his.

"How soon do they need us?" I ask.

"As soon as possible. The FBI will cover all travel expenses for both you and your family," James replies.

I take a deep breath, trying to process the information. James stands up from his chair, fastens his suit jacket, walks around his desk, and sits on its edge. "I understand this is a big decision and that you will need to discuss this with Gabby, but you need to let me know by tomorrow," he says, shifting his gaze to Derick. "This includes you as well."

We nod in acknowledgment.

When we’re back at my office, I sit back in my chair, sigh deeply, and run my fingers through my hair, lost in thought. The weight of the decision I am facing feels overwhelming.

As I enter our home after a long day at work, I am welcomed by the warm aroma of rice and chicken wafting through the air, making my stomach grumble. I lock the door behind me and hang my keys on the hook.

When I approach the living room, my gaze falls upon my little angel, wrapped in a soft, pink blanket and nestled in Gabby's arm. Seeing them warms my heart, and a smile spreads across my face at the presence of the two most precious people in my life. I lean down and kiss her soft lips. When I pull away, my joy is short-lived as I remember the news I have to break to Gabby. I sit beside her, clear my throat, and try to keep my tone light as I say, "Hey, baby, I have something important to tell you."

Gabby looks up at me with a curious expression, her eyes filled with a hint of worry. "What is it, Javi?" she asks.

I take a deep breath and brace myself before breaking the news. “I've been offered the opportunity to lead my own FBI team in Tennessee.”

Gabby’s eyes widen. "Tennessee? What does this mean for us?"

"It means we would have to move there," I explain, my voice tinged with apprehension.

I can see Gabby’s mind turning in circles as she processes the news. Tennessee means leaving behind our home, our friends, and everything that’s familiar to us. "But what about our life here, Javi?" Her fear and concern are evident in her voice.

"I know, Gabby. I know it's a lot to take in, but this is a huge opportunity for me," I say earnestly, reaching out to take her hand. "I've always dreamed of leading my own team, and this could be the chance of a lifetime."

"I understand that, Javi, but it's not just about your career. It's about our lives, our future," she replies.

My mind races with conflicting emotions. On the one hand, uprooting our lives and moving to a new state seems daunting, especially with a baby to care for. On the other hand, the opportunity to lead my own team and be closer to Sadie tugs at my heartstrings.

I nod. "I know, Gabby. I know it's a big decision, and I don't want to pressure you. But I wanted to be honest with you and discuss it together."

Gabby looks down at our baby girl. After a few moments of contemplation, Gabby finally nods. "Okay, Javi. If it's important to you, then it's important to me, too. You've always dreamed of running your own team and making a real difference in the field. This transfer is a chance for you to do just that. You deserve this, mi amor.”

Relief washes over me as I pull Gabby into my arms. "Thank you, Gabby," I whisper, grateful for her understanding and support. "I promise we’ll make it work.”

Over dinner, Gabby and I delve deep into the details of our upcoming relocation. We discuss everything from finding a newhome to the practicalities of adjusting to a new city. Later, while Gabby is putting our little girl to bed, I tidy up the kitchen and settle down at the table to text Derick.

Me

Pack your bags.

He responds immediately, as if he has been waiting for my decision.

Derick

Already packed.

Gabby walks back into the room wearing her favorite pair of soft cotton pajamas.

"You ready?" she asks in a hushed voice.

I nod, my own heart racing.

I pull out my phone and dial James's number, putting him on speaker.

---