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I shrug. “A few things clicked into place.”

“Does this mean you’re going to accept my offer to become co-manager of the park?”

“Perhaps. I have a few conditions. Nothing crazy.”

He nods. “Go on.”

“I do think managing the park would be my kind of thing. I love being Prince Charming, but I’ve been in that job for years now.”

He grins. “You can’t grow your career as Prince Charming. I’ve been telling you that for quite some time now.”

“I know,” I say with a laugh. “You were right, as always. Anyway, I feel like it’s time for something new. Something with a bit more variety and responsibility. I always thought I needed to get away from this place and this town to find growth, but now I’m positive that’s not true.”

“I’m glad you came to that realization. Running away wouldn’t have changed a thing. In fact, I think it would’ve made things even more complicated for you.”

“I agree. So, I guess I’d like to try it, but not before Sarah starts her maternity leave. She has enough on her plate as it is. I don’t want to burden her with having to train a new Prince Charming, you know?”

“That sounds reasonable.”

“And I’d like for us to do a trial period. See if this really is my kind of thing.”

He smiles at me. “You can’t imagine how happy I am to hear you say those words. I’ll have legal draw up the papers right away.”

“Great. Before you do that, though, I need you to help me with something,” I say, hoping he’ll say yes.

“Of course. What can I do for you?” He folds his hands and leans back in his chair.

I laugh. “A lot. But if you can make this work for me… I’ll be the happiest man alive and I’ll owe you big time.”

***

I can hardly believe I was able to pull this off, but I did it. Well, with the help of my amazing coworkers. I wouldn’t have been able to do this alone. Luckily, it’s parade night, and Frank made sure it’s starting half an hour earlier, so it will pass the hot dog cart right before the sun sets.

“Nervous?” Sarah asks, putting on her comfortable sneakers.

I shrug while I keep my focus on my own reflection in the mirror. Gosh, I hope I look good. “A bit.”

She laughs. “Your hands are shaking. That’s more than a bit.”

I grin. “Fine, I’m dying here. What if she runs away from me again?”

Sarah walks toward me and joins me at the mirror. Then she smooths the creases out of my shirt with her hand. “She won’t.”

“Thanks.” I turn around and take her hands in mine. “What about you? Are you sure you’re okay with coming back to work? It must be hard being on your feet all day.”

“Sitting at home doing nothing was worse. My obstetrician said that the baby and I are both healthy and safe, so… As long my princess is doing well, so am I.”

“What? It’s a girl?” I shout.

Her eyes swivel toward the door. “It’s supposed to be a secret.”

I smile at her and pull her in for a congratulatory hug. “No one’s here, don’t worry. Your secret is safe with me.”

“Thanks, Colton. Seriously. I couldn’t imagine a better coworker than you. I’m going to miss you when you’re gone.”

“I’ll still be here, you know. And it’ll be my personal mission to make sure my replacement is a top-notch guy.”

In the distance, I can hear the parade announcement being spread through the park.