Page 113 of What Happens in Paradise

‘That’s exactly what I’ve always tried to create too.’

‘I know. I always hoped it’d be successful, but I never expected it to take off so quickly and on such a large scale. I’m grateful for that, but one of the challenges with growth is that it’s impossible to oversee everything. You have to delegate and hope that others will share the same vision. But we made a mistake by hiring Hazel and innocent people like you and Alejandro have suffered because of it. So I wanted to apologise for that and thank you for bringing the situation to my attention.’

‘Oh!’ I didn’t know what I was expecting her to say, but it wasn’t that.

‘The company is called theLoveHotel. It’s supposed to inspire love. And to me, the fact that two of our very best Romance Rockstars have fallen in love isn’t something that should be punished. It should be celebrated!’ A wide grin spread across her face. ‘You’re both single, consenting adults and I love that the atmosphere is so romantic, magical and infectious that even our Rockstars can’t resist falling in love too! It proves that what we’re doing at the hotel works! That’s why I’m here to ask if you’d consider coming back to join our family as our newly appointed Love Alchemist Empress?’

‘What?’ I gasped. ‘You’d like me to come back? And you’re giving me a promotion?’

‘Yes!’ She nodded. ‘Your presentation was powerful. So was Alejandro’s. What impressed me was that he said very little about why he should get his job back. He spoke more about you and how amazingyouwere. And I noticed that you did the same. The majority of your presentation focused on Alejandro and Bob. Jasmine, you epitomise everything I wanted to create with the Love Hotel. You’ve gone above and beyond. So if you come back, you’ll also receive an extra raise on top of your new salary, as a small token of my gratitude.’

‘That’s… wow! Thank you!’ Relief and happiness washed over me, but then my chest tightened. ‘What about Alejandro?’ I didn’t want to go back without him. It wouldn’t feel right.

‘We’d love him to come back too, but as our Cuisine King!’

‘Yes!’ I jumped off the sofa and punched the air with joy. ‘That’s amazing! He deserves it so much.’

‘I know. I’ve tried his food several times and have always been impressed. I’m going to visit him next, so thought maybe you’d like to come with me, to tell him the good news?’

‘Um…’ My brain froze. ‘Perhaps it’s best if you tell him. I know he’d appreciate it. I’m just happy he got his job back.’

‘But what about yourrelationship?’ Her face creased with concern.

‘I’m still hoping we have a chance, but right now, I’d like to give him some space. See if it’s still something he wants. But don’t worry; whatever happens, or doesn’t, it won’t affect our work. We’ll still be professional and won’t let it create an awkward atmosphere or anything. I promise.’

‘Right. I see. Don’t give up on each other, though. Love is special. It’s not something you want to let slip through your fingers.’

‘I’m not throwing in the towel just yet. I’m still hoping he’ll forgive me.’

‘Good. Well, I wanted to tell you the good news in person, so now I’ve done that, I’ll let you get on with your day.’

‘Thank you.’

‘Oh, and in case you hadn’t already guessed, Hazel no longer works at the Love Hotel.’

Thank God for that.

‘That’s good,’ I said diplomatically. Calling itgoodwas an understatement. I considered doing a victory dance, but decided that would be unprofessional, so gave a gentle nod instead.

Celine turned to leave.

‘Oh,’ I called out, ‘I forgot to ask whether you’d considered Bob’s position?’

‘I did. I called him myself and he’s quite a character! You’re right. He’d be a fantastic addition to the Jamaican team.’

‘Brilliant!’ I grinned.

‘I should head off to Alejandro’s. Sure you don’t want to come?’

Every fibre in my body was screaming,Yes, yes yes! Go and get your man, but I had to be patient. Hopefully, he’d got the cake and my message. When the time was right, he’d get in touch. If I hadn’t heard from in a few days, I’d try again.

‘I’m sure,’ I said.

‘Okay. So we look forward to seeing you back at work tomorrow!’

‘Yes!’ My stomach flipped with excitement. ‘Thanks so much again for everything.’

‘No problem.’

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