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Deidra had helped me sell them both, even though it broke my heart to do it. But Deidra told me my parents would be so proud of my choice. That money paid for my undergraduate years. From that point on, it was a lot of student loans and the occasional card from Deidra and Max containing cash. Somehow, they always knew when I needed it most.
It’s funny how at first the idea of becoming a doctor mostly appealed to me because it would be a slap in the face to every person in Aspen Lake who thought I was just a troublemaker. In the end, it felt like my calling in life. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I loved that I got to help people every day when I stepped into my scrubs.
I nibbled on my bottom lip like I always did when I was anxious. “So, what’s the warning?”
Deidra gave me a placating smile. “Word has gotten around about your elf costume at the funeral.”
“To whom?”
She grimaced. “Everyone.”
I shrugged, not caring who knew about it. That was kind of the whole point of the outfit.
Deidra sighed. “Calista, I know you don’t want to hear this, but as a doctor in this community, you have a certain obligation.”
“What? To pretend my brother-in-law wasn’t a jerk? Or that his family doesn’t abhor me?”
“No. To behave in a way that is becoming of your title. You need to cultivate trust between you and those who will walk into the ER every day.”
I pressed my hands against the door, stunned. “I have always put my patients first. You know that. Never once has a colleague or superior questioned my dedication or my judgment. Why are you?”
“I’m not. It’s just there are several people on the board of trustees who are—”
“Let me guess: friends with the Grangers?”
“Honey,” she breathed out. “Whether you like it or not, the Grangers wield power in this town. All I’m asking is that you don’t give them any reason to use it against you. No cowboy medicine.”
I smirked. “What about cowgirl?”
She looked down her nose at me with her wise brown eyes. “You know I’ve always loved your passion and the way you try to do what’s right, despite the consequences. Just remember, your job and future are at stake here.” She paused. “Not to mention my job and credibility. Few women sit in my position across this country and never before in this town.”
Deidra really was a trailblazer.
I rubbed my chest, feeling more than ever like I’d made a mistake in returning. Part of me wanted to run back to Phoenix and beg for my old job back. I was well loved there and had good friends. I had even dated some great guys. Sure, I always broke it off before they could reduce our relationship to an addiction and tell me I was just a bad habit to them, but that was another story. “I would never intentionally do anything to hurt you or your career.”
Her countenance softened. “I know that. I just … I just want you to be careful. Unfortunately, and unfairly, there will be those waiting for you to step even a toe out of line.”
“Great. Happy first day to me.”
Deidra stood. “Honey, if anyone is up to the challenge, it’s you. I’ve never met anyone more determined or as intelligent as you. And let’s throw in stubborn too.”
My lips twitched, refusing to fully smile. “I think I like determined better.”
“There is nothing wrong with being stubborn. I wouldn’t be occupying this office if I weren’t stubborn. Don’t let anyone steal this from you. Especially the Grangers. For far too long, they have gotten their way in this town.” She knew that better than anyone. She’d come from the wrong side of the lake too. For some reason, people didn’t seem to like it when we succeeded.
“Maybe I shouldn’t have come back,” I voiced my fear out loud.
“I think you needed to.”
“Why?”
“Because you love this town, and you let the Grangers steal it from you. I think it’s time you took it back. Besides, I missed you, and your sister and niece need you.”
I didn’t want to remember loving this place. But Deidra was right. Quinn and Stella needed me. For them and for Deidra, I would have to toe the line. Hang up the elf costume for a while, I guess. “I better head downstairs.”
“I love you, Calista. I’m proud of you. Have a good first day.”
I turned to go. “Thank you, Dr. Zane.” I thought I should be more formal. You know, just in case.
