Page 49 of Isabella and the Slipper

I sold a painting!

Chase answered her right away.Wow! Congratulations! Is it one you showed me?

Yes. The tree branches in the sunlight.

I knew that was a good one! How much did you sell it for?

A thousand dollars!

Snap! Are you serious?

Yes. I’m shaking I’m so happy!

Good for you.

The doorbell chimed and Isabella walked out to meet the next customers. A man and a woman she didn’t recognize were admiring the sculpture in the entrance. “Welcome to the Vibrant Hue. Let me know if you need anything.”

The couple smiled at her, and the woman nodded. “We will,” she said.

Isabella moved to stand behind the counter. Another text came through.My sister is continuing to improve. Doctors say she can go home tomorrow.

I’m so relieved.

Me, too. I was scared. She was super sick. She could have died.

I know. It made my heart hurt.

Thanks again for being there for me, Five.

Isabella smiled and texted back.Anytime.

After the couple left the gallery, Isabella walked around and took note of how many pieces they had from Elsa’s collection. She planned out in her mind where things would go to make the gallery look full. At lunchtime she went into the break room and made herself a sandwich. She had to call Chase, and was getting nervous about it.

After lunch, she cleared her throat, picked up the landline, and dialed Chase’s number. He answered after the second ring. “Hello?”

She cleared her throat. “Hey, this is Isabella.”

“Hi.”

“I’m at work. Which is why I was calling. I can’t meet up with you tonight. I have to work late.”

“Seriously? How late?”

Isabella twisted the curly black cord around her finger. “I’m probably going to be here all night.”

Chase whistled. “What’s going on at the art gallery that you have to be there all night?”

“We’re severing a contract with an artist. All her art has to come down, get packaged up, and then the remaining pieces have to be moved to make the gallery look full.”

“Aw, man.”

“Yeah, it’s a pain.”

“Do you want some help?”

Isabella froze. He’d help her? That would be awesome. But she’d be in so much trouble if Elenore or Delilah found out. “Nah, I’m okay.”

“All right. See you in school, then.”

---