Grace apologized to Annette as she came to pick up the tray she'd knocked over while running out of Oliver's office before sprinting upstairs. Once safely in her room, leaning against the shutting door, she let out the mix of a cry and squeal she'd been holding in since Oliver sprung the news on her. That mixed with his surprise waltz had her heart soaring. Her only wish was that they could have danced a few moments longer.
Annie was here to stay! It was just the news she needed after her trying day. Of course, she felt terrible that only cheats and cons had shown up at their doorstep, but Annie seemed at peace with the idea of Oliver adopting her. At least they'd tried. Perhaps she understood there was only so much that could be done.
She shook her head, refusing to dwell on the bitter thoughts swirling through her mind. It was Christmas Eve and they had plenty of reasons to celebrate. She hurried over to her closer and swung the doors open. Reaching for the nearest garment bag, she said aloud, "I'll get to wear this after all."
She dressed quickly before Annette had a chance to finish with the broken glass and come to help her as she'd offered. She was too excited to wait. Looking at herself in the mirror, she touched up her makeup and then took a step back. A sudden flutter filled her from head to toe realizing just how excited she was for Oliver to see her in this dress. It was far less professional than her usual party attire. She didn't want to be merely his secretary tonight. She wanted to wow him – give him the courage and opportunity to say things she was so certain he'd wanted to say for the past week. She'd caught him staring and smiling at her too many times to think otherwise. The search for Annie's parents had thrown a wrench into her plans, but having had that brief moment with him downstairs, she was beginning to think the situation had been made more perfect.
