Chapter 737
One of my colleagues, Eloise Hobbs, overheard Willow’s question and leaned in. “That’s because our hard work actually pays off.”
Willow studied her with curiosity.
Eloise continued, “Most companies expect you to work nine hours a day, six or even seven days a week, and even then, you’re barely making five or six thousand a month.”
“So, do you make more than that?” Willow asked.
Eloise nodded earnestly. “Yes. We only work six hours a day and can make tens of thousands a month—and that’s not even the highest salary here. In a place where everything costs so much, we can actually save up and buy a little home in just a year or two.
“Most people spend half their lives trying to get there, but we can do it in just a few years. Isn’t that incredible? Doesn’t that make you feel hopeful about life?”
Willow listened to how joyful Eloise sounded and nodded as if she somehow understood. “It does.”
Eloise said, “And you know, most people spend a big chunk of their income on meals, but our company covers our food. Plus, I’ve heard they’re even planning to set up a special childcare department. Do you know what that means?”
Willow was just a child. She shook her head.
Eloise gently ruffled Willow’s hair as she explained, “In our society, women are responsible for taking care of their children once they’re born.
“Pregnancy lasts about ten months. Then, it takes at least a year before the baby turns one and another two years before they’re ready for preschool.
“A mother could ask her mother-in-law or her own mom for help with childcare, but that can sometimes lead to family conflicts. Without that support, she could be out of the workforce for at least four years, and finding a good job again—especially one that accommodates a child is really difficult.”
Willow nodded seriously. “That sounds really hard.”
“Exactly,” Eloise replied.
She watched how well-behaved
Willow was and couldn’t help but et
wonder what it would be like to have a daughter like her. If she did she’d buy her daughter pretty outfits every day.
“But if the company supports childcare, I can return to work
Vl
sooner and still earn a good salary. That way, having kids wouldn’t feel
so
erwhelming,” Eloise said.
Willow looked up at her, studying her expression.
Eloise added, “Just watch. Many more female employees will be open to having
children once Mr. Huxham rolls out that policy.”
Willow nodded. “Definitely.”
Eloise smiled. After a moment of thought, Willow added, “Wow, it sounds like Daddy’s doing something really great.”
Eloise nodded. “He sure is.”
After a friend called Eloise away, Willow quietly returned to my side.
“Now, do you see it?” I asked. “Pay your employees well if you want them to work hard. Help ease their biggest worries if you want them to live well.”
Willow nodded firmly. “I want to be a boss like Daddy when I grow up so everyone can work happily and live comfortably.”
Seeing how serious she looked, I pulled her into my arms and gave her a big kiss on the cheek. “That’s my girl!”
Zane had just arrived at the dinner party when someone came over to escort him. “Mr. Huxham, let’s talk upstairs.”