Chapter 9 - A DIFFERENT KIND OF OFFER
Emma returned to the mansion three weeks later. She wore her usual black uniform, but the white apron was freshly pressed. The dining room looked different. The service entrance had a new access system, kitchen tickets were digitally logged, and every plate was checked by two people before leaving the kitchen.
The house manager handed her a letter.
“Mr. Moretti asked me to give you this privately.”
Emma opened it. The offer was for a supervisory role with a salary that would cover her father's therapy and leave enough for rent and savings. It included paid training in hospitality management.
She found Luca in the study.
“I can't accept this.”
He looked up. “Why not?”
“Because people will think you gave it to me because I saved you.”
“You did help protect me.”
“That doesn't mean I know how to manage the dining room.”
“You worked four years in banquet service. You know the job better than most people here.”
“I still need training.”
“It's included.”
Emma placed the letter on his desk. “I don't want to owe you.”
Luca leaned back. “Then don't owe me. Earn the salary. Do the work. If you don't like the position, you can leave.”
She searched his expression for a hidden condition. There wasn't one.
“What about my family?”
“Your father's medical care is your business. The job will pay you enough to make your own decisions. I won't contact his doctors or pay his bills without your permission.”
Emma's eyes stung.
“Thank you.”
“Don't thank me yet. The training starts Monday.”
A small smile escaped her. “Then I suppose I should be on time.”
May you like
“Seven sharp.”
“I'll be here.”
