Page 101 of Six Month Wife

“I hope you do. And when you need a hot Valley Girl for your first commercial?”

“You get the first audition,” I say, grinning.

We both laugh, and something in my chest finally eases.

“Seriously,” Jenna says, voice softening. “You’ve built something incredible. I’m so proud of you.”

I glance at my laptop, then the growing pile of order forms. “Thanks. Really.”

“Go. Call your people. Line it all up. This is your moment.”

After we hang up, I sit still for a beat, letting it settle.

It’s not just a good day. It’s the beginning of something bigger. And for once, I believe I deserve it.

The sun filtersthrough the tall windows, casting a warm glow over the front desk and waiting area. Word has hit Palm Beach, and we have a steady stream of foot traffic pretty much all day. Even in light of the article that came out the other day.

I watch as one of my estheticians, April, glides across the lobby with a clipboard, her confidence in handling clients evident. I was so glad when she was ready and available to come back full-time when I called.

As I look around at Citrine, bustling with activity, I know I need more help if I want this place to thrive.

Two ladies from my spin class are in the lobby, chatting to each other while waiting for their services. Thank goodness two of my masseuses were looking for more work, and I was able to get them on the schedule, too.

It’s time to think about hiring a manager again.

The thought gives me pause. I haven’t had a manager since Caitlyn. Just the name makes my stomach twist.

She’d been efficient at first, with her bright smile and seemingly endless enthusiasm. But when my cashflow got tight and I had to let her go, she’d turned bitter, spreading false rumors that Citrine was on the verge of bankruptcy.

But now that Citrine is doing well, and my product line is finally gaining traction thanks to Rose, I will need help. I can’t run this place single-handedly while also growing my brand.

I lean against the counter and pull up a note on my phone to jot down potential ideas for the position. Someone organized, with experience managing people. Someone who genuinely loves this industry and won’t see Citrine as a stepping stone to something else. Trustworthy. That word lingers in my mind as I type.

“Adair?” April’s voice breaks through my thoughts, and I look up to see her standing near the desk. “There’s someone here to see you.”

“Do they have an appointment?” I ask, glancing at the schedule on the computer.

“She doesn’t have one,” April says, her tone hesitant. “But you might want to come out here. She didn't say her name, but something tells me she's important.”

Curious and slightly wary, I follow her into the waiting area. Standing near the front door, impeccably dressed in a tailored cream pantsuit, is Evelyn Thatcher.

“Adair,” she says with a warm smile, holding out her hand. “It’s good to see you again.”

I shake her hand, still trying to process what’s happening. “I wasn’t expecting?—”

“I imagine not,” she interrupts smoothly. “I was in the area for a meeting and thought I’d stop by. I could use a little pampering after a long day.”

“Of course,” I say quickly, regaining my composure. “We’d be honored to have you here. Let me arrange something for you.”

Thatcher waves a hand, her jewelry catching the light. “No need to fuss. I trust your staff will take care of me.”

I nod to April, who springs into action, getting Evelyn signed in. I pull up the scheduling to see if we have an opening. Before I can confirm it, April leads her back to one of our treatment rooms. For a moment, I stand there, trying to wrap my head around the fact that Evelyn Thatcher is in Citrine.

It looks like April's 3 pm canceled, so the timing couldn't have worked out better. It means the room is ready and we have someone on hand to take care of her. That's what I call good service.

When she emerges an hour later, her usually sharp features are softened and her expression is relaxed. She walks over to me at the front desk with a drunken smile on her face.

“That was lovely,” she says, her voice calm but still commanding. “Your team is exceptional.”