One Big Mistake

her lengthy shift manning the front desk of a high-profile hotel in her bustling town downtown. As she stepped inside, her gaze was magnetically drawn

ticipation. Worry etching lines into her youthful face, Olivia moved swiftly towards the source of

danced over knitting needles with practiced ease as they breathed new life into an aging blanket. Th

ierced Olivia's heart, but she concealed it behind a strained smile. "No word yet, Grandma," she admitted softly. "But I won't lose hope.

d for more than just being someone's gatekeeper." A ripple of laughter escaped Olivia. "Grams, I do more than just

ng it out of sight under the phone - some worries were better left unspoken. She turned back to see E

ly, a soft "thank you" escaping her lips. "What would I do without you?" Elizabeth whisper

bowls of homemade carrot soup and fresh bread, they shared stories and laughter within the red-brick wal

d Elizabeth get comfortably settled into bed. A sigh of exhaustion escaped Olivia's lips as she retreated to her room. The

where Olivia manned the gleaming marble reception desk with practiced efficiency. She handled guest check-ins and inquiries with professional ea

wkward days of middle school, standing across from her. Emily's presence was like an uncontained wildfire, wil

nted at stubbornness. Her eyes were almond-shaped, sparkling with mischief under thick lashes that matched the color of her

asy confidence that drew attention even when she wasn't trying. Her head was slightly oval-shaped, giving her an elegant look des

't you swamped with your art exhibit preparations?" "All taken care of," Emily replied with an indif

her proposed this idea-and I'm quite taken with it," she said, placing her hand on her chest, taking credit for it. "He suggested that you accompany us on our trip. I understand that your financia

ng Emily's generous proposition. "Em...you don't know how much this means to me," Olivia began, her voice thick with e

insistent. "But won't you at least think it over? This isn't some run-of-the-mill holiday-it's a chance that comes once in a blue moon. And con

up, Liv," she began. "What if I let you in on a little secret? My dad is footing the bill for the whole trip. It's an all-

tly and one immaculately arched eyebrow raised in a clear display of skepticism. "Is that so?" sh

works. You'd feel much more at ease if I told you we split the expenses instead of my dad bank

g, Emily's father. He was an impressive man with hair that was more b

to return the gesture with a respectful nod. "It's been quite some time," he said cordially as he shook her hand firmly yet gently. "Ho

n our trip to Italy. It's all on me; you won't have to worry about anything," he added, leaning in closer to Olivia, hi

her thoughts tangled in a whirlwind of clashing sentiments. The prospect of t

desperate plea. She gave Olivia the most soulful look she could muster, reminiscent of a forlor

s your chance." Olivia took a deep breath, allowing herself to entertain the idea. "Alright,"

ou direct me to the boardroom, Olivia?" "Certainly, Mr. King. It's on the 6th floor. There's a lobby with a recept

ng by my place post-shift, alright? We need to hash out details for our adventure," Emily proposed. "Absolutely, I'm in," Olivia responded, a buoyant feeling li

her dreams and ambitions could become reality. The setting sun painted the sky in hues

ly swung open, welcoming her into a world that felt both familiar and surreal. The Georgian-style mansion exuded a timeless charm with its pristine w

The mansion, a showpiece of extravagance, stood majestically in her backdrop. "Olivia, dear," Mrs. King's voice r

he mesmerizing depth of their chocolate-brown eyes, and the sculpted elegance of their cheekbones were impossible to ignore. "Hello

e. "Mom, Olivia, and I have plans to discuss." "Of course, honey," Mrs. King said, her voice warm. "Olivia, are you joining us for dinner tonight?"

owards the kitchen. Seizing the moment, Emily grabbed Olivia's arm and led her up the grand spiral staircase

assion. A large easel by the window held an unfinished painting that seemed to pulse with potential. "I can never get used to all of this; your room is like stepping int

countless conversations. Olivia leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Okay, spill

hope we start in Rome. Imagine us exploring the ancient ruins, immersing ourselves in history. Then, off to Florence, strolling through streets lined with art,

c places-standing in awe before the majestic Colosseum, wandering through the enchanting alleys of Venice. The thought seemed alm

nightlife. While my dad's busy with his meetings, we'll have my cousin Michele show us around." Olivia nodded. "I'

I would do him." "Em, that's...a little weird," Olivia let out an awkward giggle, clearly caught off guard. Emily's laughter

missing the idea. "Though, I haven't ruled out a little Italian romance." Emily's eyes wid

Emily reached over, giving Olivia's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Okay, okay, no more matchmaking. But seriou

ealized it was time to head home. "I should go, Em. Grandma must be wondering where I am." "Of course," Emily said with