Sexting My Ex’s Dad (Forbidden Silver Foxes)

60. Stella

60

STELLA

I stand in the doorway of Marnie’s office, feeling the weight of my decision to leave this job pressing down on my chest. I take a deep breath, filling my lungs. It’s time for me to prioritize my own happiness for once.

Marnie looks up from her desk, her eyes lighting up at the sight of me. “Stella! Hey, come on in!” she gestures to the chair across from her. “I heard about the gunshot wound. I hope that you’re okay.”

“Yeah, I’m fine, thanks for asking.”

“Isobel wasn’t sure exactly what had happened.”

And I don’t feel like sharing. “It’s a long story.”

This isn’t just another chat with my friend and coworker; it’s the beginning of a new chapter in my life. And no matter how ready I feel for this change, there’s still a part of me that’s scared to let go of what I’ve known for so long.

“Hey, Marnie,” I begin, trying to keep my voice steady. “I need to talk to you about something important.”

She leans forward in her chair, resting her elbows on the desk. “What’s going on?”

“I’m putting in my two weeks’ notice.”

Marnie’s eyes widen, and she leans back in her chair, her mouth hanging open in disbelief. “What? Are you serious?” She shakes her head, clearly stunned by my announcement.

I feel a lump forming in my throat. “It’s just... I’ve been thinking a lot about my life lately and what I really want. And I realized that I’ve been living for everyone else’s dreams, but not my own.” My voice trembles as I continue, “I want to go back to nursing school, Marnie. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and now feels like the right time.”

Marnie’s expression softens as she takes in my words. “Stella, I had no idea you felt this way,” she says gently. “I’ll miss you terribly, but I know you’re making the right choice for yourself. I couldn’t be prouder of you.”

I stand up and walk around Marnie’s desk, reaching out to pull her into a heartfelt hug. “Thank you,” I whisper into her ear.

As we hold each other tight, I hear the office door creak open. Marnie and I separate, and I turn to see Isobel standing in the doorway, her brown eyes wide with curiosity. She must have sensed the serious atmosphere in the room.

“Stella, what’s going on?” Isobel asks, her voice trembling.

I glance at Marnie, who gives me a small, encouraging nod. Taking a deep breath, I reply, “I’ve made a decision, Isobel. I’m putting in my two weeks’ notice.”

Isobel gasps, her hand flying to her mouth as if to stifle a scream. “You’re leaving? But... why?”

“I’ve decided to go back to nursing school and pursue my dreams. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s what I need to do for myself. And I need you to promise me something,” I say softly, my eyes locked on hers. “Promise me that we’ll stay in touch, and that I’ll still be a part of your life.”

I may not have known Isobel for exceptionally long, but I do consider there one of my best friends now.

Her eyes fill with tears, but she manages a watery smile. “Of course, Stella. You’re stuck with me, whether you like it or not.” She chuckles through her tears.

“Good,” I reply with a grin, feeling a flicker of lightness despite the emotional turmoil.

As Isobel’s tears slowly subside, she pulls away from our embrace and looks me square in the eye. “Well, if you’re really going through with this, we better give you a proper send-off,” she says, her voice shaking but determined as she tries to inject some humor into the situation.

“Isobel, you don’t have to—“ I begin, but she quickly interrupts.

“Are you kidding? We’re going to make sure you leave with the best memories possible, and that includes one hell of a farewell party. Oh, me and Anastasia will plan it!”

I roll my eyes and laugh. Of course they will.