Epilogue
EPILOGUE
KAT, NEXT OCTOBER
M y cheeks hurt from smiling as I wrap up today’s lecture.
As usual, the students have been engaged in the topics, moving the discussion forward with insightful points and thoughtful questions.
The last students filter out of the room as I pile my papers together and slide them into my tote. Blake stands from the front row, grinning.
“Nice job, babe,” he says, giving me a side hug. “As always.”
When we finally managed to work on the proposal for Economics of the American Healthcare System, we knew we had a winner. The level of excitement both of us had to start teaching this class was above anything I’ve felt for any of my other courses .
And it’s translated into a hugely popular one among the students, especially the pre-meds. The fact that so many of them are in my classes, between Anatomy and Physiology and this one, has made me a sought after advisor for undergrads hoping to apply to medical school.
I slip the tote over my shoulder and slide my gaze over the empty seats, coming to rest on the lone remaining figure sitting way in the back.
“Nice work,” Dean Kashman says, standing. He walks down the empty aisle to meet us at the front of the lecture hall. “I knew this class would be a hit, but you two have taken it to a level I couldn’t even imagine.”
“Thanks,” I say.
Blake gives him a nod, “Thanks. Appreciate your support.”
“Of course.” Adam looks at me. “Can I have a minute with Professor Milas?”
“Sure thing. Kat, I’ll meet you in the student union for lunch.” Blake gives us a wave as he heads for the door.
Dean Kashman turns toward me. “Again, great job. I, uh…” He adjusts the cuffs of his shirt. “I wanted to apologize. For asking you out. It’s clear that you and Professor Grantham are meant to be together. ”
“I appreciate that.”
“And I wanted to also let you know, unofficially, that your promotion was approved. The committee met yesterday, and the official notification will come next week, but they unanimously voted to promote you from assistant to associate professor. Congratulations.” He reaches out a hand, and I shake it, my brain still reeling.
I did it.
Blake is waiting for me when I leave the lecture hall, and I manage to contain my excitement for all of three seconds before I blurt it out.
“I got the promotion!” I whisper-shout. “It’s not official until next week, but it’s happening. Thanks to you and this whole arrangement.”
Blake picks me up and twirls me in a circle. When he puts me down, he’s shaking his head, but he’s smiling.
“Not me at all, babe. This was you. All you. And so deserved.” He leans closer to speak directly in my ear. “And I can’t wait to fuck an associate professor.”