~~~~~~~~

*A month later*

Tina had settled into a rhythm that felt both foreign and familiar. Morning coffee while Carson got ready for school, the subway ride to New York Presbyterian, twelve-hour shifts in pediatric cardiac care that left her exhausted but fulfilled, then home to help with homework and hear about Carson’s day.

It was a good life. A full life. And if she sometimes felt the absence of someone who used to fill the spaces in between, well, that was something she was learning to live with.

“Dr. Martinez wants to see you,” Paula called out as Tina finished updating her patient charts. “Conference room B.”

“Am I in trouble?” Tina asked, mentally reviewing her recent cases.

“Doesn’t sound like it. She seemed pleased about something.”

Dr. Katherine Morrison was waiting with a stack of files and what looked suspiciously like a smile. “Tina, sit down. I wanted to talk to you about your first month here.”

“Okay.” Tina perched on the edge of the chair, still not entirely comfortable with praise.

“Your work has been exceptional. The other nurses speak highly of you, the doctors request you specifically for complex cases, and your patient outcomes are impressive.”

“Thank you. I love working here.”

“Good, because I’m recommending you for the pediatric trauma team. It’s a significant step up – more responsibility, better pay, but also more demanding hours. Are you interested?”

Tina felt her heart leap. “Very interested.”

“Excellent. The position starts next month. Congratulations.”

Walking back to the cardiac unit, Tina felt a surge of pride and accomplishment. She’d built this life on her own, created opportunities through hard work and dedication. For the first time in years, she felt truly independent.

Her phone buzzed with a text as she reached the nurses’ station.

Hope you’re having a good day. Carson mentioned a math test today – sending him good luck vibes from here. – B

Tina smiled, typing back quickly:  Test went great! He was so proud. Hope your day is going well too-T

It was their new pattern. Friendly texts, casual check-ins, nothing that could be construed as pushing boundaries. Bette usually initiated contact about Carson, and Tina kept her responses warm but brief. No hidden agendas, no romantic undertones, just two people learning to be friends again.