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It has been a year since I started my internship at Poison Pen. I feel like I’ve learned everything I can from Fiona and Lilyanna, but I don’t know if they are going to keep me on or let me go. My contract was up a few weeks ago and they’ve been letting me take on my own clients for a while now.
Fiona asked me to come in early today, specifically asking me to come in the back. It looks like all the lights are out, though as I let myself in. I stumble through the hallway reaching for the light switch. I’m almost there when suddenly the lights go on, almost blinding me.
“Surprise!” I hear several voices shout. Looking around in shock I see the faces of everyone I know and some people I don’t. Even my parents are here. My confusion is apparent on my face as I seek out my friends in the crowd. Fiona finally steps forward holding some papers in her hand.
“Hush, Quiet!” she yells. It takes a minute but then everyone is waiting for her to continue.
“Arin, in honor of you completing your apprenticeship and obtaining your art degree from White Summer Community College. I would like to offer you some options.”
I’m not sure what she is about to say but I’m holding my breath.
“You can either continue to work here as a partner.” She holds out a thick packet of papers. “This packet is a partnership agreement. Or; you can choose this packet.” She says holding out a second packet of papers.
I look between the two waiting for her to say what the second one is.
“In my other hand, I have a franchise agreement. Lily and I will pay the upfront cost; all you have to do is select a location. You have to make a choice but you don’t have to make it right now. Eat, celebrate, and mingle with your guests first.” She smiles.
She hands me the papers, then gives me a hug before stepping back into her husband’s arms. Baratta wraps his arms around her possessively. Lily steps forward, wrapping her arms around me. “You got this, I’m so proud of you.” She says before stepping away to where Austin is waiting for her.
Suddenly I’m surrounded by well wishers. Hugs, pats on the back and congratulations are the only thing I hear for several minutes until Fiona pushes her way back through.
“Break it up, break it up.” She laughs. “Let the girl enjoy her party.”
Later in the evening, the party is winding down when I see Fiona and Lily nudging each other. I don’t think anything of it. They are like sisters always picking at each other and goofing around. It isn’t until Fiona pushes Lily towards me that I realize they have something else to say.
“Arin” Lily says, “The other presentation was business. This is personal.” She looks at Fiona who has a big smile on her face.
“Well, knowing you have some choices to make, we wanted to make things a little easier for you.” Austin hands her an envelope.
“This is from Me, Fiona and the guys.” she finishes, handing it over to me.
I open the envelope and to my shock find tickets for an Alaskan cruise.
“Oh My God!! You guys, I’ve never been out of Montana before! This is amazing!”