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"Yes, thank you," I said gratefully. But before I could fully relax, Daniel broke the disheartening news that Rosedale was downsizing due to an unfortunate event. He didn't elaborate, but I knew he must've been referring to my recent kidnapping and the ransom money involved.
My fleeting relief was immediately replaced by despair. Surely, Ariel must have talked to Guy about my need for a job. If there were no open positions, why did she set up this meeting?
"Oh, I-I'm so sorry," I stammered, reaching for my bag, my voice laced with disappointment. "I won't take up any more of your time... Really, I understand!"
"Wait, let me finish," Daniel said gently. "We've had to restructure our bookkeeping role, and I believe it could be a win-win situation for both of us."
A flicker of hope ignited within me. "That's wonderful! Can you tell me more?" I asked, handing him my résumé. "I recently earned my MBA, so I'm prepared to tackle any role within your accounting department."
"Fantastic!" Daniel exclaimed, grinning. "Let's move on to your question, shall we?"
After we discussed the remaining interview topics, Daniel informed me that Rosedale had designed a new part-time remote bookkeeping position that could be mine if it aligned with my goals. While the pay wasn't as generous as I had anticipated, I was ecstatic about the chance I was being offered!
"That's phenomenal news! I'm elated beyond words," I expressed, my enthusiasm unmistakable.
"I'm delighted to have you with us," Daniel responded. "When are you available to begin?"
"Immediately," I answered with fervor. "Do I need to arrange anything or complete any paperwork?"
"You'll have to sign the offer letter," Daniel clarified. "That's the initial step. Following that, several forms must be filled out."
"I'll keep an eye out for that," I stated, feeling reassured that everything was falling into place.
"I'll be notifying Courtney right away, so she'll handle it from here," he assured confidently. "However, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any inquiries or require assistance."
"I most certainly will, thank you," I expressed gratefully. Then Courtney peeked around the doorframe and Daniel then left me in her adept care.
She extended her congratulations and promptly provided the necessary paperwork to finalize and sign. Courtney’s thorough examination of the documents simplified the process, and her clear explanations of the company's policies left me genuinely grateful for her aid.
As Courtney helped me set up my new email, I wondered about the office's morale following my abduction—the latest incident in the Rosedale mystery. Although it seemed improper to broach the topic during the onboarding process, I was aware of the possible repercussions within the company. Since it involved me, I cautiously inquired, "Courtney, I need to ask you something personal."
She cast a worried look my way, "Oh yes…no problem."
"It's about my kidnapping. Would you be comfortable discussing it? I mean, I know you were the first to see that horrifying picture of me bound and..."
Courtney seized my arm and guided me to a nearby sofa. Then, nibbling on her lip, she divulged, "Honestly, Amy, I'm relieved you mentioned it. I was petrified... for you. But also for the rest of us. It appears the drama is unrelenting. And in my opinion, I believe there's more than one individual responsible for everything."
"Really?" I questioned, taken aback. "What makes you think that?"
"Nothing definitive. I collaborate with all the co-owners even though I'm officially Mr. Stratford's assistant. I overhear and observe things, you know? It's impacting all of us, despite the guys maintaining brave facades. Given the circumstances, I'm relieved you can work remotely and be near your family."
Gratitude warmed my chest as I responded, "I appreciate that. However, I'm uncertain how long my parents will be in town. They're eager to return to Vail and manage our family business."
We continued our conversation for a bit, touching on the harrowing events of my abduction, and Courtney shared her own anxiety and fears during that time. It struck me how resilient the Rosedale team truly was. A comforting smile found its way to my lips, thankful for the incredible colleagues and friends surrounding me.
Courtney jumped when her phone buzzed in her back pocket. "Oh, that's a message from Mr. Stratford. I better run! You know how to get back to the elevators, right?"
"Absolutely," I assured her, shaking her hand. "Thank you for everything!"
Heading towards the elevator, I caught sight of a familiar face approaching from the opposite direction. It was Mitch! Surprise washed over him as he noticed me, his expression instantly brightening.
"Amy!" He enveloped me in a warm hug, then pulled away to appraise me with a careful gaze. "You look absolutely breathtaking! I've been dying to call you, but I wasn't sure if you'd be up for lunch or dinner considering everything…?”
My smile broadened, my heart brimming with happiness. "It's fine — I'm thrilled to see you too," I replied. Before I knew it, we were stepping into the elevator together.
"I heard through the grapevine you'll be working remotely for us." Mitch stuffed his hands into his pockets.
Feeling slightly self-conscious, I nodded. "Yes, I'm beyond excited to join the team! It's a fantastic opportunity."
