CHAPTER 34
Valentina
A nxiety typically clings to the edges of an interview, but it’s not just about the job today. It’s about where I need to be—should be. I shift in the plush chair, taking in the Manhattan skyscrapers beyond the window, then face the panel of men and women, some nodding, others jotting notes, and others still processing my last response.
I can’t tell who’ll be questioning me next, but this is far more inviting than Family Sphere’s boardroom. I hosted a health-and-wellness show when someone was on leave, so if I get hired, this should be an easier transition.
“Valentina, could you tell us about a time you handled a particularly challenging situation on air?” A middle-aged woman with a kind smile and sharp eyes leans forward.
I clear my throat, sitting straight. “During a live segment, our guest became ill. I had to keep the audience engaged while signaling the crew for medical help without causing alarm.”
Nods greet my response.
A man with brown skin folds his hand on the table. “What strategies do you use to convey complex health topics in a way understandable to the general public?”
“I believe in the power of stories and simplicity.” I then break down information into relatable pieces, using personal experiences to make the content more digestible. I delve into mental health from what I’ve learned and seen, sharing scenarios that could happen to anyone. With each of their questions, I’m blessed to know the answers, which keeps our discussion engaging. I almost forget I’m in an interview as more people write notes on their notepads and others type on their tablets.
A tickle teases my nose, so I dig into my purse. But I fish out a crumpled piece of paper instead of the mini tissue pack. Memories rush in as I smooth out Felix’s drawing from our family art night.
My heart aches. What would moving back to Brooklyn mean? Jason will find another nanny, but how will I explain to the kids, especially Eden, that things have to change? The bond we’ve formed, the trust... Can a weekly visit maintain that?
“Valentina.”
I thrust back the paper, looking for whoever called my name. Had they called earlier and I didn’t hear?
“Why should we choose you as the face of NWAY’s new wellness initiative?”
I honestly didn’t think this far. Do I want to be chosen?
To regain my confidence, it would be nice to get hired, but things are different now. Either way, they deserve my time, even though I’m sure they have better top candidates to consider than me.
“I’m passionate about promoting health and wellness because it changes lives.” So far, no one asked about my show at Starwatch. Perhaps Jason just sent credentials that highlight my psychology expertise? Or perhaps NWAY didn’t want to waste time asking about the gossip network. “My commitment extends beyond presenting information. I seek to form connections, understand the community’s needs, and be present....” I’m not sure what I say next because Jason and his kids flash through my mind. I feel their warmth, love, and the difference they’ve made in my life. The challenges with Jason and Eden have brought me back to my knees, teaching me to rely on God. I’ve fallen so deeply in love with him and his kids. I’m fulfilled whenever I’m around them, and right now, I could be swimming, walking to the Sips and Scripts with them, or whatever he’s doing with his kids while he’s off work.
“I am excited about this opportunity, but I must consider where I can make the most impact, both professionally and personally.” Did I say my thoughts out loud? I might’ve because the producer nods and thanks me for coming.
“We’ll be in touch.”
For the first time as I leave an interview, I don’t care about getting hired. I thank the kind receptionist, then head to the elevator. But I’m not supposed to be the next host here or anywhere on TV.
Jason’s community needs me, his church, his family, and I need them just as much. Ethan’s job offers little pay, not sure how much, but it doesn’t matter because it’s where I need to be.
As I wait for the elevator, a phone rings from behind the wall where I just left. Light streams through a window, the sky a clear blue above the Manhattan skyline. Then the elevator doors slide open, and three people step out. My feet remain planted, and my stomach churns when I recognize one of them.
“Val.” Austin grins the devious smile of his that could fool any woman.
“Austin.” The elevator doors close, stranding me in the hallway with a man who planted roots of hate in me. Sooner or later though, I must face him. I take a step back until my back hits the wall.
His once long and cherished hair now has a clean cut, no doubt infused with fancy products. The polished look suits him.
“Don’t tell me you work here.” His tone is light but edged with something I can’t quite place. “I’m surprised you don’t work at your boyfriend’s network.”
Why is he talking like we’re old friends? “Not good to work with a love interest.” I struggle to keep my voice gentle. “You taught me that.”
Something crosses his face—remorse, perhaps? It’s fleeting, replaced by his familiar guarded expression when he steps beside me, keeping a distance between us. His gaze rakes me from the head down, soft, familiar, but it doesn’t make me melt the way it used to. “You look great. Always did.”
I step further aside to widen the distance between us while staying close enough to hear him. He probably works here too. “I assume you’re just here filling in for someone today?”
He lets out a humorless laugh. “What a small world. Of all the places, I end up working for your boyfriend. He fired me the day I ran into you. Apparently, you shouldn’t have told him I was your ex.”
“Jason fired you?”
The elevator opens again, people step out, and someone else rushes in before it closes.
“Sounds like he didn’t tell you.” He leans his head against the wall.
As I face him, sadness hits me, not just for Austin, but for the situation. Jason lost a videographer on my account?
If anyone hurts my family and those I love...
He loves me that fiercely?
His words from the night at the beach house flood me when he’d eagerly wanted to know about Austin.
“At least he recommended you for this job.” Like he did with me, I guess?
Austin smirks. “Why would he do that when he made it clear he never wanted to see me again? This host job was listed for months. It pays off to have different fields covered. I don’t intend to use Family Sphere as a reference—I doubt I’ll get a good word there.” He then rambles a plot for revenge. “If I get hired, my first paycheck goes to sue his company.”
“I’m afraid God isn’t going to help you get the job if you’re planning to waste your money.” My temperature kicks up. I want to bring up my show after we broke up. I strove to prove myself mostly because of him. “You need to work on how to treat people first.”
I step back in front of the elevator.
Austin probably assumes I work here, and I don’t volunteer that I just interviewed for the same job.
“Good luck,” I add, despite all the questions I want to ask about why and how he left the network in L.A., how things ended with the woman who came between us. But the past is really behind me.
“You made a name for your show.” His voice floats over my shoulder. “It was popular, and people loved you.”
“It’s not a big deal.” I pull out my phone, needing a distraction, and I act like I’m checking the messages or the time. Why is the elevator taking so long? I need to escape this encounter. “Nice to see you again.”
“I’m sorry I wasn’t a worthy boyfriend.”
I shift to look at him. His nod seems genuine, a brief acknowledgment of our past, before he salutes me as he leaves.
Finally, the doors open, and I step in.
At least he apologized. I don’t like that he wants to sue Family Sphere, though I’m sure they have a lawyer for such things. Jason protected me, but he shouldn’t have fired Austin. Yet he did because of what Austin did to me. Funny he never brought up Austin’s name again. My heart swells with love. As the elevator descends, I check the location-sharing app on my phone. It’s time to go home.