Love or Career, What Rida Decided

Love or Career, What Rida Decided

The only sound in the quiet hospital was the soft beeping of machines. Rida was sitting beside her father’s bed, holding his hand. Meanwhile, she was thinking about different things and her work responsibilities. The doctors said he needed an operation very soon, but her boss warned her not to miss the presentation that Rida had scheduled, which could define her career. She could not miss the presentation, but Rida did not want to leave her father helpless.

As the time passed, Rida’s heart beat faster. Each minute felt heavier. She struggled to choose between two important things. She looked at her father’s place face and then back at her phone. She couldn’t think straight, worrying about missing the presentation and losing her father. The more time passed, the faster Rida’s heartbeat.

Rida stared at her father’s weak hand in hers, her mind racing with the thoughts. How could she leave him in this condition? When he needed her the most? The memories were still fresh of her father working long hours to support the family. He was always there for her, encouraging her through the hard times. He never once complained about not having time for himself. And now, in the most critical moment of his life, how could she even think of leaving him?

She thought about her job. What if she lost it? She had worked hard for this chance and showed her boss she was valuable. This presentation was not just a meeting, but it could be a turning point in her career. She imagined her colleagues progressing ahead without her, and a sharp pang of guilt hit her heart.

She was doubled-minded. One part said, “Stay! He is your father!” while the other said, “Go. This is your chance.” Her vision was blurred with tears. Was she being selfish? Was she making the wrong choice?

Rida had always been practical, but how could she leave for work when her father’s life was at risk? She looked at the clock. In just a few hours, she would have to decide: stay with her father or leave for the presentation.

She remembered how her father sacrificed everything to see her happy. A small flood of tears rolled down Rida’s cheeks. He was always present. Now, it was her time to be there for him.

After talking to her mother and close friends, Rida realized the answer was in her heart. She could not leave her father’s side. Rida quickly emailed her boss explaining the situation and was unsure of the outcome. But she was satisfied with her decision.

The operation went well. A few days later, while sitting in the hospital cafeteria, a notification appeared on the screen of Rida’s phone. It was an email from her boss. With shaking hands, she opened it. To her surprise, her boss was excited due to her honesty and was ready to give her another chance to prove herself when things got better.

Rida smiled through her tears. She had made the right decision.