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“That’s good.”
“Probably won’t be able to walk tomorrow, though.”
He laughs. “I miss you already.”
“Me too.”
“What do you want to do on your birthday?” he asks me.
“Oh… I don’t know… I think it falls on a Thursday. I have to work the next day.”
“I want to take you out, even if it’s just dinner. I know a party isn’t really your thing.”
“Are you coming here?”
“Of course I’m coming.”
“You’ve been traveling a lot.”
“I will be there.”
I smile. “Dinner is perfect.”
I’ve finished my lecture for the day when I receive an email from my department chair.I’m wanted in the office. I know it has to be related to my review. I walk toward it with my head high, even though my stomach twists and my heart sinks with each step. I’ve been too confident, arrogant even. Perhaps I need the lesson. I’ll apologize. I love my job; I realize that now, when it could be in jeopardy.
“You wanted to see me, Turner?” I ask, taking a seat across from the woman I have much respect for. She’s made a name for herself in the field, and I’ve always appreciated her advice. I always thought we got along, and I hope this won’t change things. She’s wearing a classic black dress and her hair is perfectly curled with precision. I’m glad I’m dressed appropriately, in slacks and a sweater.
“As you probably already know, Flynn’s report was… interesting.”
“I can explain—” I start, but she cuts me off.
“Don’t. It’s perfect.”
“What?”
“You are perfect.”
“I don’t understand.”
“We’ve been looking for someone like you for years. Someone who can take this up a notch. We need someone like you at Harvard.”
“Need me?”
“I want you aboard the Art, Film & Culture Faculty Committee. I want you to expand research. We should be doing more when it comes to art here.”
“I don’t know what to say. Thank you, Turner… Can I think about it?”
“Think about it?”
“I have a lot going on in my private life right now. I’m very thankful, and I’ll give you an answer soon.”
“Okay. Iris, opportunities like this don’t come often.”
“I know, I really am extremely grateful.”
“Let me know on Monday.”
My head is spinning. I wasn’t expecting a promotion. I wasn’t even expecting to keep my job. My old self would’ve jumped at the opportunity.
