Page 74 of Frankie and the Fed

“Okay?”

“Do you remember our conversation? The one where you told me that when you were at your lowest, Ryan told you that this is not how Anna would want you to remember her? And then you got up and started Savee?”

I nod. It’s not a thing you forget.

“So I thought a lot about that conversation, about the desire to do something with my life. Dr. Sullivan told me I can control my thoughts, but I can’t control what others think of me. If the public has decided that I’m the hero of the story, then so be it. If I’m a hero in their eyes, then I want to take advantage of this sudden status I’ve received for the benefit of women like me.”

“Do you want to start a company?” I ask.

“No. I want a job in Savee.”

“I don’t know…” That’s a turn I didn’t expect.

“You told me I could choose any job I want. Remember?”

“I know what I said. That’s not the point. Until a few days ago, you didn’t want to leave the room, and now you want to be a public figure? Are you sure?”

“Yes. That’s exactly what I want. I want to help. And I can do it because I was there. The role is bigger than me, and I want to use the momentum to raise funds. To have an impact. To do campaigns against violence. Maybe we’ll pass some new laws. Maybe we’ll be able to get the authorities to intervene more in cases like mine.”

She speaks passionately, her cheeks flushed. She’s gorgeous. Her enthusiasm is contagious. I can understand that. She sounds just like I did when I started Savee. This insight...the understanding that you can use your personal pain to help others. It’s an uplifting feeling.

“Okay. After the holidays, I’ll introduce you to Paul Sheridan.”

Ayala nods and practically bounces out of the room. She’s enthusiastic, and I’m worried. I mean, it’s better to see her enthusiastic and full of motivation, but the change is too fast, and I’m afraid she’s in too much of a hurry.

The ringing of the phone interrupts my thoughts.

“Yes, Ryan? What now?” I’m ready for any scenario. Every conversation we’ve had recently drops a bomb on me. On us.

“We’re on our way to the hospital!” Ryan shouts.

“What? What’s happened? Was someone injured?”

“No, you idiot. Maya’s in labor!” his voice trembles. “Now.”

“Ryan. Oh, wow,” I shout back. “Which hospital? I’m on my way.”

“We’re going to the Village. I’m texting you the address.” He hangs up.

“Ayala!” I scream, and she comes running. I am so excited that I think if I was giving birth myself, I would have been calmer. She looks startled by my behavior, and I try to take a deep breath before I speak.

“Maya is in labor,” I inform her. “I’m going to the hospital.”

“Oh my gosh. Can I come too?”

I nod and scan the room, looking for my sneakers.

“What are you looking for?” She tries to stop me.

“Shoes.” I continue rummaging through the closet, throwing things out as she grabs my shoulders.

“Those shoes?” She points to the white sneakers sitting right in front of me, next to the closet door. “Maybe I should drive?” A big smile takes over her face.

* * *

We wait in a tiny waiting room for what seems like hours until Ryan walks into the room, a big smile on his face.

“Well?”