Page 82 of The Encounter
“Too much? Girl, that’s not enough. That’s only for the dresses from Jackie, Sandra, and Jen. I still have five more custom orders that have come in since then that I still need to bill for. Once they are billed, I’ll be writing you another check.”
Maddie burst into tears, and Kailynn squeezed her tighter.
“You deserve this, girl. You’re an amazing marketer and you’ve helped me so much. Please cash that check and do with it what you want.”
“I don’t know how to ever thank you.”
Kailynn pulled back. “Keep bringing in the business. That’s payment enough. Also, please wear one of my dresses to every event you attend. I’ll make them custom for you and free of charge.”
“Do you even have to ask?” Maddie laughed. “Of course I will!”
“Good. Then that is thanks enough.” Kailynn went back to her seat and began sewing as if she hadn’t just completely altered Maddie’s life.
Maddie sat in stunned silence for a few minutes. “I’m in shock. Is this what it’s like to be in shock?”
Kailynn laughed without looking. “Yes.”
“Is it lame of me to put this toward my loans?”
She shrugged. “Will it make you feel better to do that?”
“I mean, it’s obviously nice to see it drop, but it’s not something I can physically hold, if that makes sense.”
“It makes total sense.” Kailynn stopped and turned to face Maddie. “You know what I would do if I were you?”
“Hmm?”
“Go get that necklace made that you’ve been wanting.”
Tears sprang to Maddie’s eyes again. This check was enough for her to buy it. She knew that much based on quotes she had received in the past. “Is that irresponsible when I have bills?”
“Hell no, girl! You’ve been working hard toward paying bills. When was the last time you did something for you?”
Maddie shook her head. She didn’t even know. She hadn’t bought herself something in years. Any extra money she made, she had always put toward her debt. Never once had it occurred to her to throw caution to the wind and do something for herself for a change.
“Listen to me, Maddie. You could buy your necklace with this money, and the next check I give you you can use to put toward bills. But reward yourself for your hard work. You deserve it.”
Maddie swiped at a tear that fell from her eye. “You know what? You’re right. I think I will.”
“Good!”
A smile lit Maddie’s face. She couldn’t wait to tell Jace.
Maddie leftwork with a smile still fixated on her face. She dialed Jace’s number as soon as she got to her car. She began driving back to her place while the phone rang. After only two rings, he picked up.
“Hey, doll. Have a good day at work?”
A giggle escaped Maddie’s lips and she all but bounced in her seat. “Oh my gosh. I had the best day, and I want to tell you all about it. Are you free tonight?”
“I’m always free for you. Would you like me to come by your place, or should we order in at mine?”
Maddie pulled into her driveway. Robert’s car was parked out front. “Well, Robert is here, so…”
Jace laughed. “Come on over.”
Maddie put her car in reverse and backed back out of the driveway, not interested in risking walking in on Kayla and her boyfriend having loud animalistic sex.
“I’ll be right there!”
