Taking a deep breath, my mind begins to wander to the possibility of taking on such a high position. Head of CCU is what I’ve been working toward, but this isn’t the time to be taking on more responsibility. Zoey needs me. The babies need me.
“I know what you’re thinking,” Chief Arnold asserts, adjusting his round frames while trying to focus. “You’re about to bring two babies into the world. How could you possibly take this on?”
“Yes,” I admit, trying to compose my thoughts.
“The hospital is prepared to take care of your family… rent for twelve months and travel expenses to cover all of you. The hospital is located in a rural part of the country, so your hours will actually be less than you work now.”
I can’t believe the offer. It sounds too good to be true. Just my luck, though. I can’t shake the timing thing from my mind.
Without sounding cocky, I want to know why they are offering me such a generous package.
“Why me? There’re other surgeons here, too.”
“You’re exactly what they need… intelligent, hardworking, and compassionate. You’ll be working with a smaller population, and they want someone who will invest in the people. You’re the right fit. I’ve seen you work, son. You’re a rare breed.”
“I’ll have to discuss this with my wife,” I tell him.
Chief Arnold leans back into his leather chair, swinging back and forth. “There’s just one catch…”
Of course, there is. Strings attached to the golden carrot dangling in front of me.
“The hospital is located in Queensland, Australia.”
My brain stutters for a moment. Every part of me goes into pause mode while my thoughts catch up. Australia. This is where I grew up, my home before we moved here. It was Dad’s home and was always a part of him.
“When do you need to know by?” I question Chief Arnold. “And when would we have to move?”
“Chief Watson needs an answer by the end of next month. The hospital will be opening the new wing just before Christmas.” Chief Arnold stands, extending his hand which I cordially shake. “Go home, talk to your wife, and I will await your answer.”
***
“This view is amazing.”
Zoey is standing at the window staring intently at the breathtaking views. Not too far in the distance, the ocean laps at the sand leaving its white foam to trail the waves as they retreat.
From behind, I wrap my arms around her body, bringing her close to me. My nose, nuzzled in hair, inhales her intoxicating scent making me forget all about our troubles and worries back home and spending these moments focusing on us.
“This is just what I need…” She turns around, her stomach in between us letting out a loud grumble. “How about we grab some lunch then a dip in the pool?”
We opt to have lunch at the café by the pool, grabbing something light though enough to keep us until dinner.
I’m glad Zoey jumped at the chance to go on this short trip—two days to be exact—which is all we can swing because of work. There’s just so much to do before the babies come, though I’ve never let on that I’m just as panicked about the time as she is.
Stay calm, cool, and collected.
That’s my motto.
We continue to relax while people watching—something the both of us love doing. Surrounding us are plenty of childless couples, many with mimosas and various cocktails in their hands. A few kids play in the pool, but nobody is too noisy that could take away from the serenity.
As the sun begins to shift the heat becomes too much for Zoey, and wanting to cool down she suggests we go change into our swimsuits for a relaxing dip in the pool.
Back in the room, Zoey walks out of the bathroom wearing her black one-piece costume.
“I look like a hippo in a tutu.” Placing her hands on her hips with a flash of annoyance, she adjusts her tits so they’re covered properly. “What was I thinking buying a one-piece with this frilly skirt to hide my hippo ass.”
I laugh but not because she resembles a hippo. “You look beautiful and pregnant.”
“I wonder what a hippo looks like pregnant?”