“Listen, Andrew. You’re almost done with school, and I assume you’re on the lookout for job opportunities.”

“Yes, sir.”

“You’re the best intern I’ve ever had, and I’d love nothing more than to have you working alongside me on cases here in the Kansas City office. But unfortunately, we don’t have any positions at the moment. That could change, but for now, we don’t expect any openings anytime soon.”

Andrew fought the urge to look down and accepted the news with a deep breath. “I understand. Regardless, I’m thankful for the opportunity to learn from you—”

“Hang on, I’m not done,” Todd said with a grin. “I don’t know how committed you are to staying in Kansas City, but I have a friend from law school who works for the DA office in St. Louis. He’s retiring in May, and I told him I had an excellent intern, a real go-getter, who would be a perfect replacement. Barring any complications with graduation and passing the bar exam, they’re very interested in you, Andrew. I’d be happy to set up a conversation between you and one of the lead attorneys, if you’re interested.”

Andrew leaned back and absorbed that information. He’d never seriously considered leaving Kansas City before. He loved the city, loved the area of town where he lived. He had good friends here, and Jeni had just moved here. He’d enjoyed some of the best years of his life in this town.

But…over the last six months, he’d also endured the worst phase of his life.

A cancer diagnosis.

The worst heartbreak he’d ever experienced.

If he stayed, he would constantly be inundated with reminders of what he went through, and of Lauren.

The clothing store just down from his apartment building would always be the place he’d bought a handful of hats to cover his hairless head.

The parking lot next to the gym would be where he’d vomited after working out one day, and not because he’d pushed himself, but because of chemotherapy.

Betty Rae’s would always bring memories of Lauren, and the time they sat there together, admitting for the first time that they wanted to be together.

Maybe leaving would be good for him…a place to start fresh.

Start over.

“Thank you,” Andrew said, looking at the man who’d mentored him these last few months. “I would really appreciate that, sir.”

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-One

A week and a half later, on a Saturday that was so beautiful she felt the weather was mocking her, Lauren stood at Andrew’s door. She’d stayed strong and kept her distance. He had, too.

She had texted Jeni several times since his hospital stay, though, asking if he was okay and if his symptoms were improving. She’d begged Jeni not to tell him.