“You don’t talk about them much.”

  “I have reasons for that, and you’re aware of at least one.” Kendall attempted a smile. “But maybe it’s time I faced some things back there too.”

  The silence between them stretched, filled with everything unsaid.

  “Is this good-bye?” Ivy asked, her voice barely audible.

  “No,” Kendall said firmly. “It’s just…a pause. A chance for you to figure out if this—if I’m really what you want—who you want in your life. Without the pressure of me being right here, waiting for an answer.”

  Ivy wiped quickly at her eyes. “And what if I already know the answer?”

  “Then it’ll still be true when I get back.” Kendall stood, gathering her courage to walk out the door without Ivy. “I’m leaving in the morning.”

  “Tomorrow?” Ivy looked stunned. “That’s so soon.”

  “If I don’t go now, I might never have the courage, and that might ruin any chance we have of making this work.” Kendall finally allowed herself to reach out, brushing her fingers against Ivy’s cheek. “Think about what you really want, Ivy. Not just what’s easy or what feels good in the moment. After you’ve done that, we can talk—really talk—about where we go from here. Or whether we should just let whatever this is go.”

  As Kendall turned to leave, Ivy caught her wrist. “I’ll miss you,” she said softly.

  Kendall nodded, her throat tight. “I’ll miss you too.” More than Ivy could possibly imagine.

  The bell above the door jingled as Kendall stepped outside, leaving Ivy alone at the table. She didn’t look back as she let the tears she’d been holding back flow. When she made it to her car, she tried not to sob, but the loss overwhelmed her, and she couldn’t stop her chest from heaving in and out.

  Chapter Sixty-seven

  Kendall was lying in bed feeling sorry for herself when her phone buzzed on the nightstand. Who would be calling her this early on a Saturday? She picked it up and glanced at the screen to see that it was someone from Diamond Mountain Lodge. She closed her eyes and hesitated before hitting the green button to accept the call. “Hello?”

  “Kendall? This is Daniel Martinez, Park Director at Diamond Mountain Lodge.”

  Kendall propped herself up against the headboard. “Oh, hi, Director Martinez. How are you?”

  “I’m doing well, thank you. How are you?”

  “I’m good. I saw on the news that you’ve received a bit of snow on the mountain.” It was early December, and winter seemed to be moving at a slow pace.

  “We have. It makes for a beautiful view. The crew is working to clear the road as we speak.”

  “I’m sorry I’m not there to see it.” She’d been kicking herself for the past couple of weeks about her decision to leave. She hadn’t heard from Ivy and wasn’t at all sure she’d made the right decision.

  “That can change, you know.” He paused. “I’m calling with some good news. After reviewing all the applications and conducting our interviews, I’m pleased to offer you the position of landscape restoration advisor at Diamond Mountain Lodge.”

  “Oh, wow. I’m honored, truly.” It had been a few weeks since she’d applied for the position and hadn’t expected an offer at this point.

  “Your expertise in native plant rehabilitation and your ideas for the restoration project really impressed the hiring committee.”

  “But I didn’t even interview.” She’d lost hope when she hadn’t received a call to at least schedule a virtual interview.

  “Sure, you did.” The director’s voice rose. “Even though you withdrew your bid from the landscape design contract, we all saw your proposal, which was quite well thought out.”

  “Right.” She hadn’t forgotten about the proposal, but she hadn’t considered that they would use that instead of interviewing her.

  “We believe you’re exactly what we need to help revitalize some of our damaged ecosystems.”

  “Thank you. That means a lot coming from you, Director. The preserve is doing such important work.”

  “Please. Call me Daniel. I think we know each other well enough for that.” She heard what she thought was him taking a drink of coffee. “You could start as early as Monday, December 22nd, with the salary listed on the job description, which I believe you received from Susan, plus the benefits package.”

  “You know about that, huh?” She wouldn’t have seen the job if it hadn’t been for Susan.

  “She looks out for the needs here at the lodge.”

  “Yes. She does.” And also the needs of her friends.

  “You’ll be overseeing our three major restoration zones that the company who won the bid will be completing and also working with our team of rangers and volunteers.”

  Kendall’s excitement was mixed with trepidation. “That sounds like an incredible opportunity.”

  Daniel seemed to notice her hesitation. “You don’t sound as excited as I expected. Is everything all right?”

  “I am excited. It’s just that I need to consider some personal factors before I can accept.”

  “I understand. These decisions impact our lives in many ways. Does something specific about the position concern you?”

  “No. It’s not the position itself. It’s, well, I’m going to be upfront about this. As you know, I have a complicated history with Ivy Patterson.”

  “I’m aware, but I thought we cleared all that up when you withdrew from the project.”

  “I thought we did too, but I haven’t been in touch with her much since I left. The breakup was difficult for me.” It had been less than a month since she’d told Ivy they needed a break, and Ivy had taken every minute of it without attempting to communicate. “Working closely with her every day might be challenging for both of us.”

  “I appreciate your honesty, Kendall. Ivy is indeed one of our senior rangers and would be collaborating with the restoration team regularly.”

  “I don’t want my personal situation to affect the important work at the lodge. That wouldn’t be fair to anyone.”

  “These situations are always complex. For what it’s worth, the hiring committee asked Ivy for her input, and she supported your application enthusiastically. She spoke very highly of your professional capabilities.”

  “She did?” A little swirl began to stir in Kendall’s belly.

  “Yes. While I can’t speak to your personal relationship, it seems she respects you tremendously as a colleague.”

  “That’s…good to know.” She put her hand on her stomach to calm herself.

  “Would it help if I arranged for the two of you to have a conversation before you make your decision? Sometimes clearing the air can make these situations more manageable.”

  “Maybe. Actually, no. I need to think about whether I can separate our situation from the work that needs to be done.” She really wanted this opportunity. The restoration projects were exactly the kind of work she’d always wanted to do, especially in a place as ecologically significant as Diamond Mountain.

  “I understand completely,” Daniel said. “This is as much about your wellbeing as it is about the needs of the lodge. How about taking a few days to consider the offer? We don’t need an immediate answer.” He hesitated. “If you decide to accept, starting on the 22nd gives you only a little more than a week to take care of things there before you start. I’d like to have you here and settled before the Christmas holiday. With kids out of school, it’s usually a busy week for us.”

  “I appreciate that. How long do I have to decide?”

  “Can you let me know by Tuesday? That would give us time to make arrangements either way.”

  “Yes. That works. Thank you for understanding, Director Martinez. I mean Daniel.”

  “Of course.” He sounded happy with the resolution. “And Kendall? For what it’s worth, we all have situations in our professional lives where we have to work with people with whom we have complicated histories. Sometimes those end up being our most valuable professional relationships because of the depth of understanding that comes from that shared history.”

  “That’s an interesting perspective. I hadn’t thought about it that way.” She had thought about how good it felt when Ivy held her in her arms and wondered if she’d be able to keep that out of their professional relationship.

  “Just something to consider. I’ll email the formal offer letter today. Feel free to call if you have any questions.”

  “Thank you. I’ll be in touch soon.”

  “I look forward to hearing from you. Have a good day, Kendall.”

  “You too.” She hit the end button on her phone and dropped it on the bed next to her. “Well, this changes everything,” she said aloud. She threw back the covers, tugged on her hoodie and sweatpants, then headed into the kitchen. “Mom. Guess what? I just got a job offer from the director at Diamond Mountain Lodge.”

  Her mom turned from the counter with clear excitement. “That’s wonderful news! The park position you applied for?”

  Kendall took a seat in a plastic cushioned chair at the old Formica table that sat in the middle of the kitchen. “Yeah. Daniel Martinez, the park director, called personally. It’s the landscape restoration advisor role I told you about.”

  “That’s the dream job you’ve been talking about for weeks.” Her mom brought two coffees to the table and sat down across from Kendall.

  “Not exactly, but another one very similar to it.”

  “Why don’t you seem happier?”

  “It’s complicated. You remember me mentioning Ivy?”

  “The park ranger you worked with when you went to see the lodge last month?” Her mom sipped her coffee.

  “Yes. That’s her. We dated while I was there. It ended badly when I left.”

  “Oh, sweetheart.” Her mom drew her eyebrows together. “You didn’t mention that part.”

  Kendall looked down at her coffee. “I know. I wasn’t ready to talk about it. But now I’d be working with her regularly on restoration projects. Our duties would overlap constantly.”

  “I see.” Her mom nodded thoughtfully. “I’m sure you’re worried about the awkwardness.”

  “It’s more than that. When I left the mountain, I didn’t think we were breaking up, just taking a break to figure things out. But we haven’t talked since I left.” She let out a heavy breath. “It was my choice to leave. Ivy wanted me to stay. I just thought we should take some time to figure things out.”

  Her mom frowned. “That sounds like it’s less about your work and more about you being hurt by Ivy’s silence.”

  “Maybe.” Kendall shrugged. “Now I’m second-guessing myself. What if she was right? What if I should’ve stayed? And even if she wasn’t, do I really want to face her every day?”

  Her mom relaxed into her chair. “Honey, you’ve worked toward being the best at what you do since you started on this career path. Your master’s thesis on native plant restoration was published in that environmental journal. This job sounds like a big deal. I’m sure the director wouldn’t have offered it to you if he didn’t believe in your abilities.”

  “I know, but—”

  “Let me ask you something. If Ivy wasn’t working at the park, would you take this job?”

  “Absolutely.”

  “Then there’s your answer.” Her mom grinned at her. “You can’t let one relationship dictate your career path. I’m sure the park is big enough for both of you.”

  Kendall knew she was overthinking the situation. “But what if she makes it impossible to work together?” Would Ivy really do that?

  “Then that’s the park director’s problem to manage, not yours.” Her mom got up, went to the coffeemaker, brought the carafe to the table, and topped off their cups. “First and foremost, you’ll be colleagues now, not exes. Most adults find a way to work together professionally, even with history.”

  “I don’t know, Mom.” Kendall was still unsure about the situation.

  “When your father and I have issues, we still have to work together at the school.”

  “That’s different.” Kendall wasn’t going to let her mom get away with that comparison. “You two are married and have been for a long time. There’s a lot of history for you to fall back on.” Plus, Kendall was there to help them through it.

  “And we had you kids.” Her mom laughed softly. “We worked through it, but it wasn’t easy. We established boundaries, kept conversations work-focused while at work, and eventually found a new normal. It can be done.”

  Kendall muddled through her thoughts. “I suppose I could try to talk to her before I start, clear the air a bit.”

  “I highly recommend that. Especially if you still have feelings for her.” Her mom tilted her head. “But sometimes it’s enough to just be professional and let time do the rest. What matters is that you don’t sacrifice this opportunity because of discomfort that might be temporary.”

  Kendall smiled at the thought of going back to Diamond Mountain. “The restoration project they’re planning is exactly what I’ve wanted to be part of for a long time. Reintroducing native species, working with the park staff, helping provide a natural space to the public.”

  Her mom grinned. “I can see your eyes light up just talking about it.” She reached across the table and patted her hand. “That’s the Kendall I know.”

  Kendall took in a deep breath. “You’re right, as always. I need to accept this offer. I can handle Ivy, or at least I can try.” She didn’t have the slightest idea how at this point. “I’ve worked too hard to walk away from this opportunity.”

  “There’s my girl. And remember, you can always call me after a rough day. I’ve got a few years of experience navigating workplace relationships gone wrong.”

  Kendall laughed. “I’m counting on those pep talks.” She paused thoughtfully. “Thanks, Mom. I think I needed someone to remind me why I wanted this job in the first place.”

  Her mom squeezed her hand. “That’s what moms are for. Now, how about we celebrate with some breakfast?”

  “That sounds perfect.” Kendall smiled, genuinely feeling happiness for the first time in a while. “I’ll be right back. I need to call the director and let him know my decision.” She would try to remain optimistic about the situation, at least until she got back to the lodge.

  Chapter Sixty-eight

  Ivy was at one of her usual spots on the ridge-line trail, checking for icy areas after last night’s new-fallen snow. The morning light filtered through the pines, casting dappled shadows across the billowy white landscape. It was a beautiful morning.

  “There you are,” Susan called, sounding slightly out of breath from the climb. “I’ve been looking all over for you.”

  Ivy turned, holding up the pickax she used to clear the ice. “Just checking for slippery spots. Don’t want anyone who ventures out to get hurt. What’s up? You look like you’re about to burst with news.”

  Susan grinned, resting against a boulder. “You might want to sit down for this. I just came from the admin staff meeting with the director.

  “Oh?” Ivy pulled her brows together. “Is this about the budget cuts? Because I’ve already trimmed the education program as much as I can without—”

  “It’s not about budget cuts,” Susan said, her smile widening. “It’s about the new landscape restoration advisor position.”

  Ivy nodded slowly. “Right. For the lodge renovation project. Did they hire someone?”

  “They did.” Susan paused dramatically. “It’s Kendall.”

  The pickax nearly slipped from Ivy’s fingers. “Kendall? As in my Kendall?” That was a stupid thing to say. Kendall wasn’t hers. She hadn’t seen or spoken to her in weeks.

  “Unless you know another brilliant landscape ecologist with that name who specializes in native plant restoration,” Susan replied.

  Ivy sank onto the boulder and then popped back up as the cold snow seeped into her pants. “When does she start?” She turned to look out onto the valley, a mixture of emotions flooding her.

  “A week from Monday. She’s driving in the weekend before.” Susan stood beside her. “You okay?”

  Ivy stared out at the valley below, her voice quiet. “It’s been almost a month, Susan. We haven’t exactly spoken. I mean, things ended.”

  “Messily?” Susan asked.

  “Unfinished,” Ivy said. She hadn’t gone into detail with Susan about how they’d left things. “We both made decisions without the other and ended up in different directions. We never reached closure. Just left a lot of things unsaid.” Although Kendall’s cabin key left on the table made her leaving seem more permanent.

  Susan nudged Ivy’s shoulder gently. “Well, now fate has conveniently dropped her right back into your park. Maybe this is your chance to say those things.”

  “I don’t know.” Ivy shook her head. “What if she’s moved on? What if she’s with someone else now?” It had been several weeks since Kendall had gone back to Oklahoma.

  “She’s not,” Susan said quickly.

  Ivy snapped her gaze back to Susan. “How do you know?”

  “Because I may have done a little reconnaissance when I processed her employment paperwork,” Susan admitted with a mischievous smile. “Relationship status is single.”

  “That doesn’t mean she isn’t dating anyone.”

  “Well, I had to call her to verify a couple of things, and we chatted for a minute or two.”

  “Susan.” Ivy didn’t want her getting in the middle of anything, but she couldn’t suppress the swirl of excitement in her belly.

  “What? I’m just being thorough in my duties.” Susan’s expression softened. “Do you really think she would get over you this soon? I remember how you were after she left. You’ve never looked at anyone else the same way. And now she’s coming back as a permanent park employee to work on a multi-year project with you. If that’s not the universe giving you a second chance, I don’t know what is.”

  Ivy ran a hand through her hair. “But what if she doesn’t want to reconcile?”