“She’s staying here. If she feels unsafe, I will drive her to you personally, but for now, let’s let her decide what is best for her,” Josh explained to a moody Andrew.
I was pulled into a hug by my brother, my nerves finally settling as I looked up and saw I was surrounded by men who had dropped everything they were doing to make sure I was safe.
“I don’t know what I would do if something happened to you again,” Andrew whispered into my ear before he released the hug and settled back into the couch, unshed tears in his eyes.
“Is tomorrow your last final, Emily?” Lucas asked me.
“Yes, and since almost everyone is here, I guess I have an announcement. I withdrew from my classes for next semester today. I decided that law school wasn’t for me and Dr. Sawyer and I discussed taking some time off to figure out what I want to do for a career. I have time to decide and with the move and all the changes, I was afraid to tell you the truth, Andrew. I don’t want to be a lawyer. I went because I had promised Mom and Dad after they died that I would fight for justice. I saw after the trial that justice is blind to the victims and money will buy your way out of jail. I can’t be a part of a system that penalizes victims and rewards perpetrators.”
The stunned silence in the room made me think I had made a mistake until Jason smiled at me and said, “I think that is a great idea, Emily. College isn’t for everyone and if you already hate your major, you will be miserable in your career. Why don’t you think about working for me for a few months? Josh and I discussed you traveling with him for the contract stuff but I would love for you to be a part of the MSJ family until you decide what career path you want.”
“Thank you for the offer, Jason. Can I think about it for a few days?”
“The offer stands and the job is yours.” He replied as he and Lucas stood up and headed toward the front door. “We are going to give you three some time alone. Andrew, we will be in the car when you are ready.”
A few handshakes and hugs later, Andrew, Josh and I were alone in the apartment and I felt the tension rolling off my brother.
“Is this really what you want, Emily?” Andrew asked.
“It really is. I don’t want to hate my job and right now, I just want to experience life and all that it has to offer. I need a break, Andrew. After we moved, I threw myself into my studies, trying to hide from the truth. I’m doing better and I have reduced my therapy to once a week. I promise this is a good thing!” I smiled at him while curled into Josh’s side.
“Then I support your decision. Your sisters are going to try and get you back to school but I agree with you. You deserve a break and if traveling with Josh makes you happy, then I’m all for it.” He explained as he stood up and pulled me into a huge hug before releasing me and shaking Josh’s hand. “Take care of her, Josh.”
“It’s my sole focus in life, Andrew.” He replied as my brother walked to the door and opened it to the silent hallway.
