Page 108 of A Million Times, Yes
I rocked back into the corner of our couch. “Em, nursing is who I am.”
“I knew you were going to say that. That’s why I asked you.” She brushed away the strands of hair by my face with her fingers. “Nursing isn’t your identity, Maya, even if you think it is. That’s why I want you to consider other options. I know Jordan hasn’t asked you to quit your job, but say he begs you to be on the road with him. You can’t go. And then he’s gone two weeks out of the month, month after month. Think of how tough that would be on your relationship.”
“That’s one way to look at it—and yes, it would be miserable. But is it fair for me to give up something I love? To support him so he can do something he loves? Where’s the compromise?”
She sat up straight and shook her shoulders with complete confidence. “I’m so glad you asked. Because I have one. Your girl came prepared for this convo because I had a feeling this was something you hadn’t considered.”
I laughed. “Not at all surprised that you’re solving all my life issues, and I love you even harder for that.”
She clinked her glass against mine again. “With this option, you get to stay in nursing. You can even stay at the rehab center and see my beautiful face.” She winked. “But instead of being a full-time employee,you work per diem. If you’re home for two weeks, work the two weeks. If you’re home the whole month, work the whole month. But by going from full-time to per diem, you’ll be able to travel as much as you want and still have a job to come home to. Heck, with the rates they pay those types of employees, there’s a chance you’ll make even more money than you do now.”
Emily was right; this was an option I hadn’t even thought of. I would certainly be able to come and go as I wanted. And I would potentially make more money.
Of course, there were downfalls.
Major ones.
And one was: “But I wouldn’t have any benefits.”
She snorted. “You think Jordan is going to let you go without insurance?”
My cheeks puffed as I blew out air. “That still means I would have to rely on him.”
“Babe, if that man is going to become your husband one day, then you will be relying on him just like he’s going to be relying on you.” She reached for my hand. “I know you’re used to doing everything on your own, but you don’t have to anymore. That’s what relationships are all about—not all, I suppose, but yours is.” She clenched my fingers. “And think about it—if you move in with Jordan, you won’t have rent or utilities, which is going to save you a boatload. All you’ll really have is your cell phone and student loans. I’m not saying those bills are nothing, but in comparison to what you’re currently paying, they’re kinda nothing. One day of per diem, and you’ll have both of those bills covered for the entire month.”
I let her idea sink in.
I definitely didn’t want his traveling to come between us, for us to grow apart, or for this to start feeling like a long-distance relationship.
And with what they would be paying me, there was a good chance I could afford my own insurance. I could even help contribute to Jordan’sbills—if he’d let me. I couldn’t even imagine what a mortgage would be on a home like his.
Or the electricity.
Or even the water.
She shook my hand. “I can see those little wheels spinning in your brain.” She paused. “Come on, you know I came up with the best solution ever.” She unfolded her legs and stretched them out across the ottoman. “I’m a genius, aren’t I?”
I laughed. “I’ll give it to you ... your idea is impressive.”
She released my hand but held my arm. “Do you feel better about the possibilities now?”
“I do.”
“Good.” She drank her wine. “Now, let’s talk about that upcoming vacay Jordan is taking you on. Do you have any deets? I’m dying to know everything.”
“Um. That makes two of us.” I wiggled onto my knees and sat on my calves. “He won’t tell me anything. The only reason he even told me about the vacation was because I needed to take the time off work.”
She wagged her finger at me. “Another reason per diem is perfect for you.”
“Anywaaay,” I sang, “I know we leave in three days. That’s all the information he’s given me.”
“Oh God, how are you supposed to pack?”
I shrugged. “I don’t know.”
“Is he going to tell you the night before so you can at least put together your suitcase?”
I put my hand out, palm-side up. “I have no idea.”
