Chapter 39
CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE
IVY
“Iknow, this is going to leave you shorthanded, and I’m sorry, Sara.”
My now-former boss shakes her head.
“I figured it was only a matter of time. This is what you’ve always wanted to do, Ivy. You’ll be so great at it.”
“But what are you going to do? You were already down one therapist.”
“I just hired someone yesterday afternoon. So, it’ll still be tight, but not dire.”
My shoulders sag in relief.
Thank goodness.
“Just stay in touch. And if you’re ever back here full time and need a job, come see me.”
“You’re the best, Sara.”
“I know.” She winks at me. “Good luck, Ivy.”
I’m so relieved as I leave her office and walk out to my truck.
Since I left Greg’s place yesterday, I’ve been setting everything in motion.
I’ve already spoken with Dr. Walker and accepted the position with the team.
I have some of Cally’s things packed up and ready to get on a flight with me because we probably won’t be back until Christmas.
I’m not leaving my girl behind anymore.
I originally booked a flight for tomorrow morning, but with everything ready to go, I don’t want to wait to see Xander anymore, so when I get to the house, I log in and change the flight to one leaving in just three hours, then video call Ava.
“Hi, friend,” she says. She sounds . . . sad.
“Hi. Are you okay, Aves?”
“Of course.” She smiles at me. “Just making more wedding decisions. What’s up with you?”
“I need a favor. Can you take Cally and me to the airport in like an hour and a half? I know it’s late notice, but—”
“I can take you,” she says. “No problem. I’m glad you’re taking her with you. She’s been lonely, and I can’t be there all the time. I thought about taking her home with me.”
“You’re the best Aunt Ava ever.”
“I know. If she were human, I’d take her to concerts.”
That makes me laugh, and it feels so good. “Thanks, Ava.”
“See you soon.”
I hurry up and empty out the fridge, tidy the kitchen, then run upstairs and make the bed I used and clean the primary bathroom. It’ll feel good to come home to a clean house when we’re here next time.
Whenever that is.
It doesn’t matter, because as long as I’m with Xander, I’m home.
Finally, I get Cally situated in her carrier, grab the bag of her stuff I packed and my backpack that has my electronics and the few things I brought with me, and we’re ready when Ava pulls into the driveway.
“Hey,” I say to her as I set Cally in the back seat. “Thanks for the ride.”
“No worries, I was just sitting at home,” she says, and once I’m all settled, she takes off. “Chad’s in Helena again this week, so it’s been quiet.”
I nod and glance her way. “What’s he doing in Helena?”
“He’s been working on a case, and he likes to hobnob with the political people.” She shrugs. “He has political aspirations.”
“Does that interest you?”
“I’m an interior decorator,” she replies, but then lets out a long sigh. “I support him. If that’s what he wants, I’ll help him any way I can.”
But she doesn’t sound convinced.
“When was the last time he was home?”
“About a month ago.”
Now I scowl at her. “You haven’t seen your man in a month?”
“He’s busy,” she replies. “And I’m busy too. I’ve been putting in long hours.”
“Ava—”
“Don’t start. Please. I hear it from everyone. I know it’s unconventional, and it’s not how anyone else would want to live, but I’m fine.”
She doesn’t look fine.
“Okay. If you ever want to talk, just call me.”
She pulls up in front of the drop-off doors and smiles at me.
“Thanks. Have a safe flight.”