Career Advice

"So what have you been up to since I left home?" asked Matthew.

"I was bored on my own," answered Cora, "so I took the insurance money and bought a day spa."

"So you run the spa?"

"Yes, I don't do any work, though, other than network and chat up the customers to make sure they are well taken care of. I sign the checks of course."

"Tell me," said Matthew, "how's business."

"Good, not great, but steady. I'm making a profit."

"I'm in the business world, so I know all about how to make a business a success," said Matthew, fighting his will to smirk. "I'll give you plenty of great advice on how to be a better boss and inspire your employees to both love you and fear you and want to do their very best."

"Oh, thank you, Matthew! Do tell?"

"Well, the first thing you need to do is buy a Cinderella costume."

"A Cinderella costume?"

"Nothing says class, sophistication, and power like a princess costume. Remember, she got the prince and became royalty."

"Great idea," said Cora. "Can we go to a costume store now?"

"I don't see why not. Find one on your phone."

As Cora looked up the address to a costume shop, Matthew continued. "Next, it would be a great idea to demand your employees refer to you as Miss Princess Cora. If they don't, fire them."

"Good, I need to be treated with respect," said Cora. "There's a costume shop on Stuart Street about three miles from here."

"OK, I think I know where that is," Matthew said before making a U-turn. "Next, when you walk around work, put one hand on your hip and wave the other hand over your head. That gives you an air of authority."

Cora nodded.

"Always wear three coats of make-up. A lot of make-up is what those of us in the business world call 'power make-up."

"I can see that."

"Always wear your hair in a retro beehive, and wear a big tiara. Even a costume jewelry tiara adds to your air of superiority and style."

"I love it!"

"Of course, I would not steer you wrong. I'm a businessman, and I take these things seriously."

They drove to the costume store, found a Cinderella costume and a large plastic tiara with big fake diamonds and pink gem stones and drove home.

After entering the house, Matthew stopped Cora. "I'm glad you kept the place up. You, me, and Dad agreed this place would be mine this year, and you will continue to live here rent free as long as you lived by my rules. It was very generous of you and Dad, and I know you'll love living here."

"Of course, Matthew."

"Good, I'll hire some guys to move your stuff to the basement. You'll be happier down there where you can be alone with your thoughts. Now, go try on the costume, and I'll let you know if you need alterations."

"Thank you so much for all of your advice, Matthew!" For a second it looked like Cora was about to hug Matthew, but she just took her costume and went upstairs.

Matthew looked around and went into the kitchen to grab a beer, but there was none, so he opened a bottle of wine.