Page 35 of Clear Shot

Fuck.

Luckily,my depression lifts in a day or so, and I start feeling like myself again.

Unfortunately, that doesn’t help the situation I’m in or the fact that we’ll be heading home the day after tomorrow.

Home.

To the apartment I share with my new wife.

Whom I haven’t heard from in the week since I left.

I should be the one to reach out, but I don’t know what to say so I take the chicken shit way out and don’t talk to her at all.

This is why I’m not good husband material. Well, one of several reasons. My ex, Regina, made sure to point out every single one of them.

I’ve just gotten back to the hotel after a team dinner meeting when my phone buzzes in my pocket and I see Hana’s name on the screen.

Damn. Is she reading minds now?

I quickly pull it out and read the text.

HANA: I’m on my way to California for a job interview. I should be home before you on Thursday but I can’t be sure. You know how flights can be.

A job interview? In California?

My heart drops.

Is she leaving me before I have a chance to?—

I quickly end that train of thought.

There’s nothing to be done.

All I can do at this point is be happy for her and hope we can salvage our friendship once our sham of a marriage is over.

AIDEN: What kind of job? When did this happen?

HANA: I sent in my resume on Friday, we did a phone interview on Monday and today I’m on a plane.

AIDEN: They must really like you.

HANA: I think so? I explained that I don’t have a work visa and they said it wouldn’t be a problem if they decide I’m the right candidate for the job.

AIDEN: Is it another sales position?

HANA: Sort of. It’s pre-sales, where I would work with the client to show them the highlights of the program. Then the sales team sweeps in to finalize everything.

AIDEN: Is that good or bad? It sounds like a step down.

HANA: Maybe a little.

AIDEN: Why would you take a step down? Don’t do it on my account, okay? I’m happy to have you around, despite what we talked about before I left. You’re still my friend and I still want you to be happy. You don’t have to take the first job that comes along. Wait for the right one—you have time.

HANA: I just thought it would be…easier.

AIDEN: For who? Don’t worry about me. I’m good. And seriously—don’t take some bullshit job just because they offer it. Is the pay as much as your old job?

HANA: No. It’s a twenty percent pay cut.