Page 7 of Between Us

Thinking it over for a second—trying to find the right words to articulate why I’d choose to add more responsibilities onto my hectic course load.

“There are a few reasons, actually. Like I said, this seems like too great of an opportunity to turn down. I’m new to town. And to be completely transparent, even through study groups and coursework, making friends in a strenuous program like Animal Medicine can be hard.” Sitting up a little straighter, I add, “And my parents have never shied away from hard work and what it took for them to get to their positions as highly respected nurses across the country.”

“Is that so?” It comes out curious, no sense of a double meaning.

“Yes, sir.” I nod. “My dad went to nursing school while on a football scholarship at UCLA. My mom worked two jobs to put herself through school. They’ve worked hard to make sure I don’thaveto do that, but I want to. I’m excited to start my career and my priorities have shifted, even in the three months since I graduated with my bachelor’s degree. I don’t see why I should wait to start my career in this field.”

Dr. Miller chuckles easily. “Fair enough. And as long as you can find a healthy balance, I completely agree.”

After a few more minutes and questions—some routine, some more personal like how I’m adjusting to Amada Beach—Dr. Miller stands from his side of the desk. So, I follow suit.

“It was great to meet you, Adrian.” He reaches across the table and shakes my hand.

Firmly, I return the gesture and tell him, “You as well, Dr. Miller. Hopefully, I’ll talk to you soon.”

With a warm smile, he nods once. “Good luck in your classes.”

Accepting his dismissal, I walk out of his office and to the front doors. When I see the storm clouds have cracked open, letting a heavy rain pour down, I smile to myself.

Chapter Two

Blake

Leaningbackinthechair with a furrowed brow, I try to focus on my knitting project in front of me. Technically, I should be focusing on my actual job—a receptionist at my dad’s vet clinic.

Really, it’s an animal hospital by this point. But when we moved to Amada Beach, it started as a much smaller facility and has grown exponentially over a decade and a half.

One of the perks of working for a parent is he doesn’t usually mind when I bring in things like this. Having something to focus on helps my anxiety stay at bay, so these quiet days can be hard if I don’t have tasks or a form of distraction.

The only good piece of advice I got from one of my former therapists was finding hobbies that will help with restlessness and overthinking. It was my mom’s suggestion to try crocheting. I picked up sewing in school quickly and she had learned from her mom, so she was able to teach me.

I have now surpassed her skills and there are more blankets, and other random items, than anyone knows what to do with.

With my brother’s first child being born in about four months, I’ve been focusing my crafts on her. I’ve finished a baby blanket and a variety ofpeluches—so far, she has plushies of a dog, a cat, a rabbit and a cow.

For the last few days, I’ve been working on a onesie design I found on Pinterest. It’s my first time knitting. Everything online said it’s easier than crocheting, but I’m not picking it up nearly as quickly.

And maybe I would if I hadn’t chosen a pattern that switches colors and designs repeatedly. But it is freaking cute.

I’m determined by this point though, and I’m almost done with the back piece.

My goal was to finish the little leg sections by the end of the day, but I’ve gotten to the point where I have to be honest with myself—it’s not happening.

Feeling frustrated, I pull on the yarn harder than necessary to undo the small mistake I just made. It’s not only that, though. One of the worst parts of having anxiety is how little it makes sense.

Ever since I had to say bye to my friends while they jetted off to New York City together for college, I’ve feltoff.

Like I’ve lost my security blanket, just as Catalina suspected.

But from the moment I woke up today, the reality of the situation has weighed me down with insecurities and overthinking.

I have faith in my friendships, and I’msoexcited for both of them. These are the goals they’ve had as long as I’ve known them, and I’ve learned to be inspired by them rather than envious.

Selfishly, I wish they could’ve stayed.

I wish I had a plan for my life, so I could’ve gone far away with them.

Except, I don’t think I’dwantto leave Amada Beach, or my family. Which brings me back to wishing they didn’t have to leave for their dreams.

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