Bran
“Awwww,” Norah says, and I turn to look at her. “Sorry, I totally read it over your shoulder. That’s who I am.”
I giggle. “It’s okay.”
“You’re not going to ask me to return that too, are you?” she asks.
I shake my head.
“Does that mean you’re going to stay?”
I look from her to each of them.
“It’s okay to change your mind, sweetheart,” Mom says.
“I want to stay,” I cry.
She rushes over to embrace me. “Yay!” she shouts. “Come on. Let’s get you unpacked.”
“I have to do something first,” I tell her.
I take my phone and walk out to the porch, and I dial Mara’s number.
“Hannah, tell me you are en route to the airport.”
“I’m not.”
She sighs. “I was afraid of that.”
“I’m really sorry, Mara. But I’ve decided to stay here and finish this vacation after all.”
“Fine. Just stay and come back to us, operating at a hundred percent, please.”
I pause.
“You are coming back eventually, aren’t you?” she asks.
It’s time to be brave.
“I don’t think I am.”
“You’ve proved your point, Hannah. This company can’t survive without you. I can’t. You’re the best planner I’ve got. If you come home, we’ll discuss the details of your new position. The promotion is yours,” she announces.
I don’t say anything.
“As well as a substantial salary increase,” she adds.
“That’s what I’ve been waiting to hear,” I whisper.
“Excuse me? Is that a yes?” she asks.
“Thank you for the very generous offer, but I think I’m ready for my own adventure.”
“I can throw in an annual bonus,” she pleads.
“Mara,” I cut her off.
“You’ve made up your mind, haven’t you?”