Page 182 of Empire State Enemies

“And you know, we’ve got some awesome hiking trails right by the Patapsco Valley State Park, not to mention all the cool parks and natural spots nearby,” he continues, “if that’s your thing at all.”

It feels like he’s trying to sell me the position. Maybe I’ve got a real shot at this job.

A flicker of excitement stirs in me, a little beacon of hope in the dark journey of my job hunt. “That sounds perfect. I’ve missed the outdoors.”

“You’ll have time for hobbies here, that’s for sure. Life’s way more laid-back. It’s got its pros and cons, but you’re less likely to hit burnout.”

I can see the good points already, even though the thought of leaving New York still makes me break out in hives. Even though I hyperventilated on the train ride here. The thought of a slower pace surprisingly appeals to me now.

Looking through the glass walls of the interview room, Ascend’s office feels like a different universe. It’s styled like a chic, modern warehouse with warm woods, plants everywhere, and the aroma of gourmet coffee in the air. People are actually laughing and chatting, enjoying themselves. Like they’re in a commercial for job satisfaction. I know I’m seeing it through rose-tinted glasses because Aaron is nice compared to Vicky, but I can’t help it. Sometimes you just get a vibe for a place.

I try to envision what my new life here could be. Easier, for sure.

A few plants and fancy coffee won’t solve everything, but it’s a start. I might be less anxious and wound up. Despite my panic earlier, hope flares now.

It’s conveniently near the care home Mom proposed in her plan. I could easily visit her if needed—a huge weight off my shoulders.

“You’ll love it here if you can handle a slightly slower pace,” Aaron says warmly. “I know the PR firms in New York are more glamorous. We keep things pretty low-key and grounded here. But we really take care of our people.” His eyes glint playfully. “And our famous Thursday night happy hours liven things up.”

Pleasant possibilities unfold in my mind. PR Lead for their healthcare division could be amazing—no more peddling D-list celebs and their butts. I’d be working on stuff that actually matters, like hospital campaigns and mental health initiatives. Suddenly, I’m excited.

Maybe a slower pace is exactly what I need—somewhere my mind isn’t constantly racing with stress and worry. A place where my heart doesn’t tighten up thinking I might run into Connor around every corner.

I’d have more cash in my pocket, time on my hands, and maybe, just maybe, some peace of mind.

And living out here chops expenses by nearly half. Plus, the care homes won’t require me to sell my liver on eBay, which is always a bonus.

It makes sense.

It’s not New York, though.

It’s not home.

Though what is home, really? Home is where you feel content. Where you have the luxury of appreciating the world around you with the people you love and, most importantly, the people who love you back.

Home is a feeling, a vibe, not a place pinned on a map. It’s where your heart finds peace. Where you can breathe and just be you.

I smile at Aaron, hoping he doesn’t detect the sadness underneath. “It sounds like exactly what I’m looking for.”

And it does. It really does.

A few days later

Grace lights up when I break the news—I landed the job in Baltimore.

She bubbles over with excitement. “When do we start packing? I’ll start looking up jobs and—”

I inhale, bracing myself for the bomb I’m about to drop. “We don’t.”

Her brows knot in confusion.

For the first time ever, I’m actually nervous to talk to Grace. Because of what I have to say next.

“I’m moving alone. You’re staying here.”

Her confusion turns to shock. “What? No! I’m coming with you!”

“No, Grace. You’re not. You have an amazing opportunity in New York. I won’t let you give that up. Not for me, for Mom, for anyone.”