Chapter 255
Chapter 35: The Christmas Party Part 1 (A moment of peace.)
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65
Christmas was just a few days away as the team entered into the final phase of their plan. Marlon decided to throw a Christmas gathering for Josie.
“She hasn’t had a Christmas in over four years. I think a party would be good for her. What do you think?”
Marlon looked at Emily with a weary expression. Now that the competition date was near, Josie had been more focused than ever! She left little room for downtime as the final preparations began. Marlon worried that by throwing her a surprise party, she may be resistant. He decided to speak with Emily about it considering she’d spent the most time with her.
“Honestly, I think that would be great idea for her. She’s been so consumed with all of this; it would be nice to give her a moment to breathe and moment of peace.”
Marlon nodded in agreement, he’d felt the same way, he just needed reassurance.
“I’m going to call Josh; I’m sure he would love to be apart of this. Do I just invite the whole group?”
Emily smiled warmly, she loved the way Marlon took care of his cousin. Over the past several months, Josie became somewhat a little sister to Emily, more than just her employer. She knew better than anyone what the Taylors were capable of.
“I’m sure he will! I’ll notify the others; let’s plan a great party for us all!”
Josie sat quietly as Joshua drove them to their destination. The sound of music being the only noise. With the past few weeks being so dedicated to the plan; there was little time for Josie and Joshua to focus on their relationship since confessing their feelings. The evening before, he’d finally convinced her to go on a date.
“You want to go out on a date?”
Her eyes deepened in confusion as she and Joshua ate together in her office.
“Yeah. Tomorrow’s Friday and we haven’t had the chance to really do anything couple–ish. Besides, I think a change of dinner scenery would be good for us both.”
Josie tilted her head, she didn’t have much experience with dating, and unfortunately her introduction into intimacy had been ruined by Tillman. After solidifying their relationship; Josie decided to follow his lead on the whole ‘dating‘ thing. Still, she’d never actually been on a date; so this might be kind of fun.
“Okay! Let’s do it! Let’s go on a date!”
Josie smiled brightly as she continued eating her dinner, Joshua’s face instantly lit up into a huge grin. After dinner, when Josie excused herself to the restroom; Joshua decided now would be a good time to text Marlon.
………..
[Mar….Josie is good to go for tomorrow! I’m going to take her to an early dinner. We should be back about 7pm.]
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12.45 Thu, Oct 16
Chapter 255
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(x) My man! Me and he will have everything set up! I’ve already told everyone else too, so they’ll all be here!”
Oh! She loves steak!!
LOL yeah I gathered that! I have the perfect spot!!
Friday finally came, and Josie found herself in a bit of crisis.
“Em…‘m sorry for asking at the last minute…but…can you help me
Josie looked at Emily with panicked eyes. As they headed out for work that afternoon.
“Sure! Is everything okay?”
Josie looked to her left; her face filled with slight embarrassment.
“Jojo”
Emily was now worried, what could be troubling Josie at this moment? Taking a deep breath, Josie smiled nervously.
“Yeah….it’s just….I don’t know how….well I’m not really sure what to wear for a date.”
Emily’s eyes widen before a warm smile spread across her face. In so many ways, Josie was mature beyond her years. The cruelties of life forced her to grow up both fast and harsh. However, there were still some moments where Emily could tell she was just a young woman and in many ways still that eighteen year old girl. Emily gently placed Josie’s hands into hers,
“I’d love to help you.”
Josie’s face beamed with excitement as they headed home,
Joshua arrived at 4PM just as Emily was finishing Josie’s makeup. After finishing, Emily took a step back to admire her work.
“Well…Ms. Joste….you look absolutely stunning.”

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