“So, how long are you thinking we’ll need? Until the project is complete, I mean.”
Seth looks around, calculating in silence. “Well, our initial projection was eighteen months, but, as I mentioned, that was a rough estimate with a lot of cushion. So, now that we’re a couple months in, I’d say… another six to eight should do it?”
I feel my face tighten with another smile.
“In a few months, I should be able to give you a more solid estimate, but—”
“No, that’s perfect. Thank you.”
He smiles back, nodding. “You’re welcome. Glad that seemed to cheer you up a little.”
His stare lingers on me again, and I look away, hoping he does the same.
“Guess we’re done here,” I say, taking slow steps toward the doorway. He’s giving off some intense energy today, and while I don’t want to read too much into it, I know this is a good time to part ways.
“If anything comes up this week, feel free to reach out. Otherwise, I’ll catch you during our usual Monday meeting.”
“Yep, sounds good.”
I take another step, and Seth’s lips part like he’s about to speak again, but at that precise moment, one of his guys pops into the room, adjusting his yellow hardhat as he approaches Seth.
“Got a sec, boss?”
Seth’s eyes slowly shift from me to the guy, and he nods. “Sure.”
I don’t speak again, just wave at them both as I head out, happy to have avoided whatever awkward moment Seth nearly trapped me in.
As I hop into my truck, I wave at my security detail where they’re parked behind me, but before I can even start the engine…
Dr. Tyler.
I stare at his name on my screen, knowing I have to answer, but not a single part of me wants to do that. I don’t want to have this conversation, don’t want to bring the dream to an end for however long it takes West and I to get back on track.
But I have to do this.
To save my marriage.
“Good afternoon,” I answer, taking a deep breath as soon as the words leave my mouth.
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Golden. I have a message here to give you a call. How can I help?”
He sounds so pleasant, so hopeful, and for some unknown reason, the tone of his voice makes me sad.
I take a breath, watching cars pass. “Well, after some thought, West and I have decided to postpone treatment. For now,” I rush to add.
There’s only the slightest bit of hesitation on the line as he processes the news I’ve just dropped on him.
“Ok, well… it’s not uncommon for couples to request that we hold off on things for a while. And fortunately, we’ve already retrieved and frozen your embryos, so there’s no reason we can’t take a pause and catch our breath.” He hesitates again, maybe waiting for me to jump in with an explanation. “Is there… anything I can help with? Anything you or your husband need from me or my office? We’re here to help.”
I brush a tear away from my cheek, shaking my head. “No, I think we’re all set but thank you. For everything.”
“Of course, dear. I’m here when you two are ready to get things back on track.”
“Thank you.”
“Take care, Mrs. Golden.”
The call ends. I’m grateful for thatandfor tinted windows, because the second the line goes dead, more tears flood from my eyes. I’ve taken hits before, I’ve faceddisappointmentbefore, but this time… the blade just seems to cut so much deeper.
