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“Yes sir, we’re working security,” Charlie answered.
“Please, all of you come and enjoy the party as my guest,” I said. “I’m sure there won’t be issues tonight with all the extra security you guys brought on. It’s your turn to have fun.”
“Thanks, I’ll let them know,” Charlie chuckled. “You gonna be okay with all these elves running around here tonight?”
Chapter 48
Paige
Ifinished the tables, then walked around checking everything. It was so pretty. I was looking forward to seeing the rest of this famous Hawthorne family. I slowly wandered back over to the workshop. The mall had closed now so there really wasn’t much to do.
“Paige, you need to go put one of these fancy elf outfits on.” Sherry handed me a costume. “Some lady was here looking for you.”
“What did she want?” To this day I worried when someone was looking for me. “Did she leave her name?”
“Victoria, I think. She said she would be in the office when you got back,” Sherry added.
I carried the costume with me to the office to see what Victoria needed. I worried that she wanted an answer, but I was hoping to see the family tonight and maybe get a chance to speak with Imogen. I knocked on the door.
“Come on in, Paige.” Gunner answered my knock. “Victoria is on a call. She should be off soon.”
“Do I have time to go in the bathroom and get this costume on?” I asked.
“Yeah, yeah, but let’s go to the other bathroom in the back.” Gunner gestured for me to follow him. “Are you looking forward to tonight?”
“Yeah, I’ve never been to a big party like this. Actually, I’ve never been to a party.” I shook my head. “I guess I never realized that until now.”
“Paige, how are you, dear?” Victoria said from inside the back office. “That eye is looking much better. Did I just hear you say you’ve never been to a party before?”
“Yes, ma’am. I hadn’t realized it until I said it out loud.” I looked away, feeling awkward saying that. “Did you need to speak with me?”
“I just wanted to see how you were doing and if you had any questions since our talk yesterday?” She pointed to the chair by the desk. “I know it’s a very strange thing. I wouldn’t blame you for having reservations.”
“I’ve been thinking about it a lot. You’ve been so good to me.” I fidgeted with the costume on my lap. “Oh, and these new costumes are real pretty.”
“I’m glad you like them. You’re in charge of the elves and the workshop tonight. Please make sure all of them get a plate of food once all the guests have been seated,” she smiled. “Gunner will be mingling in case you need anything, or if you want to meet anyone.”
“Thank you again, Victoria,” I smiled. “I should get back out there. Unless you needed me for anything else? Like, did you need an answer now?”
“Paige, relax and enjoy the party tonight. You can give me an answer tomorrow.” Victoria sat at the desk. “Now get in the bathroom and change. I’d love a picture of you in it.”
“Oh! Is it to show your son?” I worried. “I have this silly wig on.”
“I was wondering about that. What does your real hair look like?” She tilted her head looking at me. “Do you mind letting me see?”
I pulled the elf hat off, then removed the wig, exposing my short dark brown bob cut. I fiddled with it trying to make sure it wasn’t going in all directions.
“You should be you tonight, dear. Your natural color is quite striking with your eyes.” Victoria smiled again. “You don’t have to. I’m just making a suggestion.”
“I guess I can go as myself, if you’re sure I look okay.” I looked down, feeling shy. “I like hiding under the wig.”
“You need to come out of hiding. You’re beautiful,” Victoria said.
“I’ll trust you, but if you change your mind, I’ll have the wig in my purse.” I pointed to the bathroom. “I better get changed.”
On my walk back, I felt so weird without a wig. I pushed my purse onto a shelf behind the counter at the workshop. All the elves were in costume and Sherry had already filled them in on our duties for the evening.
“I just came from the owner’s office. We are to eat after the guests are seated,” I told all the elves. “Make sure to smile.”
