Page 145 of Not In The Contract

I remembered my time at Alex’s orphanage and how precious it was to spend time with the kids there. I could totally see myself bringing value to little lives.

“Not likely,” I added quickly. “Definitely, is what I mean. I know I’d like to work with children.”

A knowing smile played on her lips, as if she understood the uncertainty that came with such decisions. “May I offer you a suggestion?” she asked, twirling her pen between her fingers.

I nodded, feeling like the dial on the microscope I’d been placed under just got turned up a few notches. Having my thesis critiqued and reviewed was already a vulnerable seat to be in.

Now this.

Paula took my anxiety in her stride and spoke with warmth and compassion. “Given your passion for your studies and the experiences you’ve gained through life, I believe that you should work with children.”

Her words struck a chord deep within me, resonating with the thoughts and desires I had been quietly nurturing over the years. The kids at the orphanage, their resilience and their stories, had left an indelible mark on my heart. It was one thing to believe certain things about myself, but hearing her encouragement made it feel all the more real.

“I appreciate the vote of confidence, thank you, Paula.” My voice was filled with a newfound sense of purpose. One I’d been missing. “I’ve been drawn to the idea of making a difference in their lives.”

Her gaze held mine and she was still smiling when she said, “Devon, there’s a need for people who can provide support and guidance to children who’ve been through the foster care system. Children who have grown up in orphanages. You have a unique perspective, one that can truly have a life-changing impact.”

A spark of realization ignited within me, a sense that something had finally clicked into place. I wasn’t sure whether it was hearing Paula put into words what I’d been feeling but couldn’t make sense of, or that it was just timing. The path ahead came into sharper focus. More defined.

“I’ll leave it to you to explore this further,” Paula continued. “But I believe that your skills, combined with the particular compassion you bring, could have a lasting positive influence on children in the system. Specifically as a counselor. What do you think?”

“Counseling?” That precise label narrowed down a wide field of possibility, but instead of making me nervous, I felt calm. It felt right. Like it fit, somehow.

“I don’t need to tell you, but you’d make a great counselor, Devon,” Paula said. “You have an innate ability to connect with children. I’ve seen it happen. It’s your superpower, and you should use it for whatever good you can.”

I laughed softly at that, imagining myself in a cape, swooping in to offer kids forgotten in the system hope for the future. Kids who had more options and didn’t have to grow up harboring hurt and anger.

A renewed sense of purpose burned within me by the time I left Paula’s office. The thought of working with children who’d experienced a similar journey to mine felt like a calling, a bridge that connected my passion with a path that could bring about positive change.

I finally had it—my answer. I couldn’t wait to tell Alex.

50. Culinary Chemistry 101

Alex

AsIsteppedthroughthe door the tantalizing aroma of a sumptuous meal enveloped me, piquing my curiosity. Devon must’ve called in the chef to surprise me.

A small smile played on my lips as I set down my bags and slowly moved through to the kitchen.

It had been a day from hell, and with Devon’s thesis complete she was no longer at the office to provide those brief pockets of relief. Sitting down to a good dinner with her was just the thing that could begin to turn this day around. My heart quickened as I followed the enticing scent to the kitchen. Passing the dining room, my eyes fell on the candlelit table set for two. I froze in the doorway to the kitchen, my mind struggling to make sense of what it was seeing.

Devon was dancing around, her hair pulled up with stray tendrils framing her flushed but happy face. She sang as she moved between different stations of chopped veggies and marinating meat. The two things didn’t go together: the amazing smells, and Devon being the one responsible for them. I loved the woman to bits, but still…

“What the…?”

She whirled around, realizing my presence for the first time. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and a touch of mischief.

“Dinner. For two. Just like last time but I promise, lessons were learned and methods have greatly improved.”

I chuckled, recalling the last dinner disaster. “I don’t doubt it, by the smell of things.”

“I have everything under control.” Devon placed her hands on my shoulders and started ushering me out of the kitchen. “Go get cleaned up, put on something comfortable, and then meet me in the dining room.”

I spun around quickly, catching her off guard as I swept her into my arms. “You’re so sexy when you boss me around like that.”

I kissed the small gasp from her lips, leaving her with a surprised look on her face as I made my way to our bedroom.

Our bedroom.