Page 52 of Secret Cinderella
In a minute she’d talk to them.
Mickey said, “This is really generous of you, Charlotte. More than we deserve.”
Out of the three of them, she’d been tolerable. “Mickey, if you want to take the money and open your own bake shop, no one will stop you. You can liveyourdream.” Mickey loved baking and throwing parties.
Mickey nodded at the suggestion. “I’d like that. Thank you.” She led her sister and mother away.
Jack smiled beside her and she took solace from him. They’d be finished shortly but she held up her head and told the employees, “Everyone else. I’m sure the news of the sale caused some fear but let me assure you that everyone will continue to have a job and work in the new store. There is a week’s training in New York, completely paid for by us, that you need to go on soon but at no point in the next year will any of you be laid off as the store transitions. Your benefits will increase to a better health insurance.”
“Thanks, Charlotte.” People cheered and then she introduced Aurelia.
Soon they were done and she headed out toward the waiting limo. She trembled with happiness that now she finally hadherlife to live as she said, “So that was easy.”
“Are you ready?” Jack held her door for her.
She slipped inside and asked, “Where are we going now?”
Jack sat beside her and the driver took off. “While you were busy taking care of the store, I was texting a realtor. I still have one year left of school so we need somewhere to live.”
Until now she’d never had a life where she didn’t have to get up before dawn and work until after sunset. She’d figure out how to live like a normal person as she snuggled in his arms. “I’m looking forward to the rest of our lives and planning a small wedding.”
He kissed her cheek. “Any idea of majoring in business now?”
“Yeah, I’d like that but I don’t want to make us stay when you want to see the world.”
He winked which was his sexy new thing and said, “I’m sure there’s an online program where you can study wherever we end up.”
“Doesn’t matter. I’m happy with you.” Anticipation raced through her, causing her to tremble in happiness.
He pressed his hand on her hip. “Good, because you’re mine, now and forever.”
And then he kissed her.
This was all she ever needed. Jack was the love of her life and love mattered more than holding onto anger. Happiness was hers because she was worth it and once in a while dreams do come true, and her dreams were now to live her life, with Jack beside her, forever.