”
Jessica entered in a borrowed suit, resume in hand. But it was her eyes that struck him—hope mixed with determination. “Thank you for seeing me. Emma hasn’t put that doll down since Christmas Eve.
She named her Hope. ”
“That’s perfect. Sit down. Tell me about yourself.
”
The interview lasted an hour. She was qualified, intelligent, motivated. He offered her a position as executive administrative assistant—benefits, reasonable hours, a salary that would change her life. “I’ll pay you back for the doll,” she said.
“With my first paycheck. ”
“Use your first paycheck to get Emma shoes that fit. And take her somewhere fun. The doll was a gift.
Sometimes we have to let people give us gifts. ”
“Why are you doing this? ”
“Because Emma asked me to help her wish come true. And because you’re genuinely qualified.
I’m not creating a charity job. I’m hiring someone who will make my life easier. ”
“I won’t let you down. ”
“I know you won’t.
”
Six months later, Jessica had become invaluable. She and Emma moved into a better apartment. Emma thrived in a good preschool. Jessica started online business courses.
Riley and Emma became friends after a playdate—Riley teaching Lego construction, Emma showing how to care for dolls. One evening, Jessica knocked on Marcus’s office door. “Do you have a minute?
”