Unexpected Love

Chapter 7

The next morning, Meredith woke with a flutter of nerves in her stomach. New York was exactly what she needed, but the thought of leaving Seattle, her parents and friends weighed on her. She could already picture her friends reaction especially Cristina—disbelief, then a million questions about why she was choosing to leave everything behind.

Meredith's phone buzzed. A message from Derek.

🔵 Good morning. Let's grab coffee before we meet Richard?

Meredith smiled and quickly typed back.

🔵 Sure. Meet you in half an hour?

Lexie popped her head into Meredith's room. "Are you ready? I know Richard might be shocked, but he loves you, Mer. He's going to understand. Plus, it's not like he hasn't thought about you becoming chief someday."

Meredith took a deep breath and nodded. "You're right. I just hope he sees this for what it is...something I need to do."

She met Derek at a cozy coffee shop near the hospital. Derek was already at a corner table, coffee in hand, his eyes lighting up as she walked over.

"So, are you ready for this?" he asked, a warm smile softening the seriousness in his tone.

"As ready as I'll ever be," she replied, taking a sip of her coffee. "It's strange...I thought I'd be more scared, but I'm actually excited. For once, I'm choosing my own path."

Derek reached across the table and gave her hand a quick squeeze. "That's the Meredith I remember. You've always been stronger than you think."

Later that day, Meredith and Derek walked into Richard's office. He looked up, surprised to see them both, but there was warmth in his eyes as he gestured them inside.

"Chief," Meredith began, her voice steady, "I've decided to take a fellowship in neurology in New York. I wanted you to hear it from me before it became news."

Richard's face softened with a mixture of pride and pure joy. "I can't say I didn't see this coming. You've always had so much potential, Meredith. If New York is where you want to be, you have my blessing."

After they left Richard's office, Meredith felt a weight lift. She squeezed Derek's arm, smiling up at him. "I can't believe I did it. I'm really doing this."

Derek grinned, his eyes full of admiration. "New York doesn't know what's coming."

That night, Meredith reflected on how far she'd come. Her family had rallied behind her decision, and her friends were just a phone call away. New York would be an adventure, and for the first time in a long time, she felt ready for anything.