Page 23 of Outspoken Hearts
"This isn't a small mistake, James. This is exactly what I was afraid of—that this was too good to be true. And here we are."
"Eva, this doesn't have to change things between us."
"Of course it does. Either you take the job and we try long-distance, or you turn it down and potentially resent me. Either way, what we had is already changing."
"What do you want me to do?" I ask finally.
"I can't tell you that. But I need you to be honest with me—fully honest."
"I can do that."
"And I need some time. To think."
"Of course. Whatever you need."
"I should probably go," I say eventually.
She nods. "Yeah, that's probably best."
At the door, I turn back. "Eva, you matter to me. More than a job. More than anything."
"I want to believe that," she says softly. "But actions speak louder than words."
The next few days blur together, though Eva remains at the forefront of my mind. I've honored her request for space with just one text.
Me
When you're ready to talk, I'm here. Take all the time you need.
Her reply was brief.
Eva
Thank you. I'll let you know.
The Westcott offer has become public knowledge after the mayor mentioned it at council. Now I'm constantly fielding congratulations and questions, each a reminder of what I might leave behind.
Caroline arrives unannounced Sunday afternoon with a casserole.
"So," she says, "Boston, huh?"
I sigh, closing my Westcott folder. "News travels fast."
"It's Meadowbrook. I'm surprised they haven't called a town hall about it yet." She rearranges my refrigerator. "Mom's recipe. Figured you needed comfort food for life-altering decisions."
"Have you talked to Michael and Stephanie?"
"They're freaking out a little, but they'll support you whatever you decide."
I nod, guilt settling in my stomach. My siblings built their lives here partly because I made it possible.
"What about you? What should I do?"
Caroline studies me. "Do what you want for once, not what everyone needs from you."
"It's not that simple."
"It never is. But this isn't about keeping the family afloat. This is about your future."
