Page 62 of Soulmates and Slapshots
The moment they made the offer, I took a chance and asked if there was any way I could work remotely, traveling to the office at least once a month. I was expecting a no, but instead, my soon-to-be boss, Tanya, said yes. Apparently, they have several other editors on staff who commute. Shesaid I’d receive a formal email confirming everything within a few hours.
I keep replaying the conversation in my head, wondering if I imagined it. I pinch myself just to make sure I’m not dreaming.
I don’t know what to do next.
My first instinct is to call my parents, tell my aunt, and call Weston. But I don’t do any of those things. I want to be sure this is real before I share it with anyone. I need to see it in writing, making sure it’s not too good to be true.
At this time yesterday, I’d made up my mind that New York was where I was meant to be. And I’ve been talking myself into making peace with that decision. Then last night I spent time with Weston after his game, trying to convince myself that this wasn’t the end. I was starting to convince myself that we could figure out a way to stay connected. That whatever brought us together wouldn’t be gone in a flash. I believe with my whole heart that his trade to the Ice Breakers and my visit to Maple Falls were meant to be.
To distract myself I get busy with laundry and cleaning up my aunt’s cottage. Every few minutes, I stop to refresh my inbox.
I need to call Hayley. This news needs to be done over the phone and not by text. She knows about the job offer, but I’d made it clear it wasn’t final. Of course she was already planning my return. At least with this updated offer I’ll be visiting New York monthly, and we’ll still see each other regularly. But I know it won’t be the same. I won’t be living a few blocks away from my best friend anymore.
She’ll be upset at first. But in the end, she’ll understand. That’s what best friends do.
As for my parents, I already know they’ll support me no matter what coast I’m living on.
I open the french doors and step outside into the chilly November air. The breeze picks up, so I pull my sweater tightly around me. In this moment it hits me. This feels right.
After a few seconds, I hear my phone buzzing from my pocket, and I scramble to grab it.
It’s the email from Tanya. My official offer is here, detailing every update we discussed. I couldn't have imagined it would work out so perfectly.
A mix of emotions suddenly takes over—relief, joy, disbelief. Tears fill my eyes because for the first time in weeks, I don’t feel like I’m being pulled in different directions. I know I belong here in Maple Falls. With Weston.
Dabbing at the corners of my eyes, I exhale and scroll to his number. My hands are shaking as I type the message.
Hi. Can we meet up sometime today?
I quickly hit send. I’m sure he’s still at practice so he will see my message when he’s done. Then I shoot a quick message to my parents. I’ll call them later, but first I need to speak with my aunt.
I slip on my boots, grab my coat, and head out toward the lodge. I already know my aunt will be thrilled. And I have no doubt she’ll let me stay until I find a place of my own.
For the first time in a while, everything feels like it’s falling into place. When I left New York to come here, I was a mess. I came looking for some clarity, and that’s exactly what I found.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen my aunt cry. She’s always carried herself with the highest level of confidence, never letting things get to her. But today when I tell her I’m staying in Maple Falls for good, her eyes fill with tears. She tries to hide it, but it is so obvious.
“You can stay with me as long as you need,” she says clearing her throat. “I love having you.”
That’s when it hits me—it must’ve been lonely being so far away from her family all these years, even though it was her choice. Of course, the moment doesn’t pass without a comment about telling my mother she was right about me staying in Maple Falls. I roll my eyes. Some things will never change.
“Anyway, have you told Weston yet?” she asks, tilting her head with a mischievous grin.
“No…I sent him a text.”
Her eyes grow wide with excitement. “Ohhh, girl. You’re about to make that man’sentireyear.”
Heat fills my cheeks as she continues talking. “I need every detail about how that conversation goes.”
I laugh. “Okay, I’ll give you the full report.”
Well, maybe I’ll leave out a few details.
She pulls me into a tight hug. “We need to celebrate soon.”
After I leave the lodge, I take my time strolling through town, allowing myself to truly soak in the charm of Maple Falls. The crisp air is filled with the scent of pine and fresh bread from the bakery. It's surreal to think that this place is about to become my home.
As I turn the corner, my heart skips a beat. Weston is crossing the street, dressed in sweats and carrying a duffle bag over his shoulder. His hair is messy, and his cheeks are red, so he must’ve just come from practice.
