Coming out of the meeting with Ally, Effie and Gerold, I had a lot to think about. I knew what Ally wanted. She tried hiding herself from everyone else but couldn't keep her feelings from me. We were close enough, and I knew her expressions and movements, even how she talked and how all of that came together to tell me more. I couldn't do anything close to that with most people, but I could with her. I knew her witchy sense was driving her, and she trusted whatever it told her. More importantly, though, I knew she wouldn't follow it unthinkingly and would balance it with everything she already knew and our discussions from earlier.

Whenever we discussed something, Ally always wanted to hear what I had to say first. I think she was afraid I would give in to whatever she wanted because I loved her. She did have a point, but I wasn't having any of it this time. I needed to hear what she had to say and why she wanted to take the position. It was the only missing piece of my personal decision puzzle.

I knew nothing had come up as an immediate deal breaker. So, the only thing left for me to decide was what was best for us as a family and me as an individual. They wanted her, and not just for her usual skillset. They wanted her for all those intangible qualities I found irresistible. The fact she would be highly valued for who she was and for the same reasons made me happy. That alone was enough for me, but it seemed like it would be pretty cool to live here, which was another point in favor of the whole idea.

Sometimes, wanting to help the person you love most get what they need supersedes anything. I'll admit I didn't consider some of the costs, especially when I promised to "handle it," whatever may happen. As it turns out, I kept my promise. Unfortunately, there were many times I handled "it" poorly. Who can foresee everything that can possibly happen? And I can honestly say the lessons I learned have served me later in my life. So I'm satisfied with my decision, and I'd do it again.