“I don’t mind.” He resumes cutting potatoes, and I turn back to my onion even though my attention is all on his words. “Let’s see … life plans … being healthy again. That’s top of the list. Thanks to Holly, I should be good there.” A quick smile is thrown my way, and then he’s back to his list. “I plan to land a position in a law firm and then eventually join my family’s. It’s good job security, good pay.”

The lack of passion in his statement clings to me like walking through a surprise spider web. I try to brush it away but can’t seem to manage it.

Terra shares my skepticism.

“Job security? Very practical of you. Is that something you worry about a lot? Losing your future job?” Her bowl is full of grated cheese, so she sets aside her implements and focuses completely on Ben.

My roommate’s scrutiny can often make people uncomfortable, but Ben just appears thoughtful. His eyes are unfocused, and his hands have stilled as he considers her question.

“Not exactly.” He brings his attention back to Terra. I still feel like I’m in his peripheral vision as he addresses her, “I made some selfish choices in the past. Went the irresponsible route and paid for it. I don’t want to do that with my career.”

“Hmm.” Terra stares hard at Ben, and he doesn’t let his gaze fall. She gives a small nod but still doesn’t seem satisfied. “So, life goal number one is, get healthy. Life goal number two is, a good job. Any more?” Terra brings us back to her original question, listing off Ben’s answers by counting on her fingers.

In a large pot on our stove, I begin piling in ingredients along with some boxed broth. When Ben doesn’t respond immediately, I glance over to find him completely focused on the potatoes.

He clears his throat, eyes still on his work. “I’d like to find someone. A forever kind of someone.”

I fully expect Terra to squeal, clap her hands together, and then mock us mercilessly. Instead, she gives a glimpse of her serious side, reaching across the table to grip his arm. At her touch, he glances up from his work.

“That’s it, Ben. That’s a good goal.”

BEN

“Done. Finally.” Holly collapses onto her mattress next to me.

“You do this every Sunday?”

She nods. “Deal with it now, and then, during the week, I can focus on school and work. If I waited till the last minute to come up with a dinner plan, I’d probably starve.”

I don’t know how she juggles it all. Just reading her day planner intimidated me. No wonder she’d claimed she didn’t have time to date. Guess I’m lucky she found a way to fit me into her schedule. Especially since I’m already taking up some of her precious time by making her go to doctor appointments.

“Is the surgery going to throw you off?” My stomach twists as I realize how much more time I’m stealing from her. I prop myself up on an elbow. “What the hell is wrong with me? I can’t believe we haven’t talked about this. What’s your recovery plan for after the donation?”