Page 138 of Matchmaking the CEO

Epilogue

Natalie

One month later

––––––––

"Hey, Mom, I've gotsome news to share with you and Dad."

I was sitting cross-legged on the couch in the enormous living room in Jake’s home in Martha’s Vineyard, holding the phone with both hands. Jake was leaning against the huge window on the other side of the room, eyes trained on me.

"Let’s hear it," she said. Dad came on the screen as well. They were both tan and had many blond strands in their hair.

"What is it?" Dad asked.

"Well, you know how I've been enjoying my work here with Maddox?"

"Yes. You told us about it," Mom replied.

"I've decided to stay there for good."

My predecessor, Susan, returned last week, but our last events had been such a success that Maddox decided we should host more of them. He needed a team of two for that.

My mom blinked. "What do you mean?" Her voice was a bit sharp. My stomach rolled.

"I didn't feel fulfilled at my previous job. I did it because I didn't want to let my degree go to waste, but I was never happy."

Mom huffed.

"Darling, I realized that a long time ago. I just figured you'd want to persevere," Dad said.

"You realized that?"

"It was written all over you. You never got excited when you told us about your work. I always assumed it was because Vince was making your life hard."

"It wasn't just him. Anyway, I'll also keep planning gigs on the side until I can build my clientele. Mom, I know you're disappointed, but I really love it."

"Honey, I could never be disappointed in you. I did that job for years because it was the only one I could do. I figured you'd be safer with a degree and that you’d have more options. That's all I ever wanted for you. But if this is what makes you happy, then by all means, go ahead with it. We're proud of you no matter what."

I could see in my mom's expression that she was still a bit regretful, but this was good enough for me.

"Thank you both. That was honestly all I had to say. What are your plans today?"

"We're spending some alone time with our granddaughter. That way, we can pamper her away from your sister's scrutinizing eyes." Mom’s smile was smug.

"Mom, don't piss her off. She'll revoke grandparent privilege."

"No, she won't. She likes the free time too much." Mom sent me an air kiss. "Bye, darling. And say hi to Jake for us."

I turned the phone. "He’s right here."

I’d introduced Jake to them in one of our phone calls. As soon as we’d hung up, Mom texted to inform me he had their full approval.

"Hi. Nice to see you two again," he said.

"Jake, finally we get to talk to you again. Our daughter is keeping you away from us.”

“No, I’m not, Mom," I huffed. "But last time you kept him on the phone for forty-five minutes.”

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