It is too risky. You keep refuse to tell her for now

“Claire, I’m sorry, but I really don’t feel comfortable telling you,” you say and try to avoid eye contact, “it’s not that I don’t trust you, but I … well, I’m not proud of it. And words spread fast here.”

“I can’t say this is the kind of answer I hoped for,” Claire says and you can see her eyes nail you, “listen, {male_name}, I respect your privacy and as I said, I’m not going to judge you. But to grand you the founding and the other benefits that come with this job, have to make sure you are not involved in anything illegal or … something that could hurt this towns reputation. Or mine.”

“Claire, I promise you that I’m not involved in anything illegal,” you try to explain, “and the reason I’m back has nothing to do with **** or shady people. It’s just embarrassing to me, that’s all.”

“I guess I have to trust in your parent’s good upbringing than,” Claire says still not pleased, but after a deep breath she sounds calm again, “please understand that I’m in a difficult situation. I need people I can trust in. I hope with some time you can regain trust in me again. Until then, I have to keep an eye on you.”

“I … understand,” you mumble unsure, “but … what is this all about? Last time I was here this was little more than a barren patch of land with a few houses on it and a handful of farms around.”

“Some people would say it still is,” Claire mumbles with a hint of bitterness, “but while you were studying, we had some serious changes. In the past, this town was only producing agricultural goods like food or some wood. We had some small businesses but the only big company was into logistics. Under my predecessor, two new companies moved here. One is just a building that rents offices to freelancers, the other one is … well, do you know Trayo cooperation?”

“The food factory?” you ask surprised, “I sure know them. They are quite popular among students because their food is cheap. Despite the nasty rumors and scandals.”

“Well, people here were not too happy about their new factory in the area too,” Claire says and nods, “while I agree that this got us several new workplaces and a lot of money for the city treasury, I’m also not happy about their plans for the future of this tower. Part of my work here is to keep their expansion efforts at bay.”

“I see,” you mumble and begin to realize how much your hometown has changed, “and what is my part in this? Why do you think a doctor is useful?”

“For different reasons,” Claire answers thoughtfully, “for example to strengthen the connection in the community. The whole town and also a lot of people from the surrounding areas will come to you. This saves time, money and will improve living condition. And all you have to do is living and working here, just like you already planned.”

“Alright, if it is just this, I can help you,” you answer, “by the way, is the old doctor’s office still available? I thought about using it again.”

“Yes, and it is still property of the town,” Claire answers proud, “which means I will be your future landlady. Don’t worry, I will make you a good offer. If you still want to work here, I have the funding applications already printed out. Just fill them in and give them to Eve. I will take care of everything else. Oh, before I forget it … you mother will hate for this, but there is a small apartment right above the doctor’s office. It is part of the lease. You don’t need to live in your old nursery again.”

“I guess we have a deal then,” you say and take the documents from Claire, “thank you Claire. Really. I guess it is a new start for me then.”

“You are welcome, {male_name},” Claire says gentle, “and now, Eve, you can stop eavesdropping. Take the rest of the day off and show our new resident his workplace!”

“Will do mom,” Eves voice appears through the closed door.

“This girl,” Claire whispers amused, “you shared quite a bond back in your childhood. I hope you are at least honest to her. I may be a mayor now, but I will always be a mother in first place.”