“I’ve loved every minute of being here, but I couldn’t turn down the extra hours Zac offered me in the medical clinic.”
Daniella frowned. “I meant to ask you about that the other day. Zac’s always looking for people to join his team. Why are you working as the clinic’s receptionist instead of being a nurse?”
“I needed a change. If I didn’t, I would have had a breakdown.”
Daniella rubbed Harper’s arm. “I’m so sorry.”
“It’s okay. I’m much better now. Working in a hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic changed a lot of people’s lives. When the virus first hit, all the hospitals in New York City were busy, but not overwhelmed. That didn’t last for long. Our hospital was flooded with patients and we had to convert entire wards just to accommodate everyone. We were working non-stop, often without a break. Protective gear was scarce, and the fear of getting sick was always there, but we had to keep going. People needed us.”
Daniella nodded and felt a surge of admiration and sympathy for Harper. “That must have been incredibly hard.”
“It was. The first two years changed me. I saw so much suffering, so much loss. Doctors had to make life-and-death decisions based on the number of beds and ventilators we had. We were scared for each other because we saw first-hand what getting sick could mean.” Harper took a deep breath. “It’s better now, but people don’t realize the number of patients still getting really sick because of Covid.”
“Well, I’m glad you’re here. And Zac’s incredibly lucky to have you working with him.”
“I’m glad I’m here, too.” Harper’s smile became distracted as she focused on the children. “I’d better make sure no one’s eating the cake. Are you still happy to read the stories to the children?”
Daniella picked up the two books she’d left on the table and smiled. “I’ve been looking forward to it. Send everyone across to the fairy glen when you’re ready.”
While Harper shooed everyone across the room for a quiet story time, Daniella placed cushions on the floor so everyone had somewhere to sit.
With a rustle of her tulle skirt and a flick of her wings, she took her place in the center of the fairy glen. Today was her first full day back at work, and she couldn’t have been happier.
* * *
Harrison parkedhis truck outside Daniella’s house, a knot of apprehension tight in his stomach.
The decision to visit Nashville State Community College, to seriously consider the counseling opportunity offered to him, was fraught with implications for his relationship with her. It was a conversation he dreaded, but he couldn’t put it off any longer.
He stepped out of his truck. Taking a deep, steadying breath, he approached the front door and rang the bell. He’d called Daniella earlier to make sure she’d be home. With her dad still in the hospital, she’d spent a lot of time traveling between Sapphire Bay and Polson.
Daniella greeted him with a warm smile, but he could see a trace of concern in her eyes. “Hi, Harrison. Come in.”
Inside, in the familiar comfort of her living room, Harrison remained standing, too restless with nerves to sit. “I’m glad you’re home. How’s your dad?”
“He’s a little stronger each day. Mom’s getting everything organized for when he comes home.” Daniella frowned. “How’s everything with you?”
“Last week, I had a call from the recruitment agency who’s working with the Nashville State Community College. I’ve been offered the counselor job.”
Daniella’s smile faltered, her eyes reflecting a storm of emotions. “Oh,” she said softly, a tremor in her voice. “That’s... that’s really great news, Harrison. It’s a big opportunity for you.”
Daniella was trying so hard to be supportive, but he could see the disappointment on her face. “It is a big opportunity, but I’m not ready to make a final decision until I go back to Nashville. I want to meet the staff and see the programs they’re offering the students.”
“That sounds like a good idea. It’s different talking to someone on a video conference call instead of being there in person.”
Harrison could hear the strain in her voice, see the struggle in her eyes as she attempted to be understanding. “I wanted you to know first,” he said earnestly. “Whatever happens, it won’t be an easy decision.”
Daniella took a deep breath and sent him a sad smile. “I’ve been preparing myself for today. You’re such an amazing person that I would’ve been shocked if you weren’t offered the job.” She reached out and held his hand. “When are you flying back to Nashville?”
“Tomorrow morning. I’ll catch up with my family while I’m there.”
Daniella nodded, her expression brave but her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “Then we should make the most of the time before you go. No matter what you decide, we’ll get through it.”
Harrison felt a deep respect for her strength, even as he saw the effort it took her to hold back her tears. “I’d like that,” he agreed, his own voice thick with emotion. “How about we go for a walk? It’s a beautiful night.”
Daniella picked up a sweatshirt and sent him a genuine smile. “That sounds wonderful. Do you want to know something Harrison?”
Relief washed through him at the teasing note in her voice. “I always want to know things you tell me.”
