Myron and Ari had explained that these were the people who had chosen to stay at JM Investments, even when it seemed she might never open her eyes again. The company’s success had drawn attention from every direction, and its most competent staff had been approached with one tempting offer after another. Millie had kept track of each attempt to lure them away. But these were the ones who had shown real loyalty and refused to leave.

Taylor was already sobbing uncontrollably. Several others around her were crying just as hard. Millie gently reached out and brushed away the tears on a nearby employee’s cheek.

“Yes, I’m awake,” Millie said warmly. “I’m alright, though I’ll need some physical therapy after lying still for so long. From here on, we’ll move forward together.”

Everyone lifted their fists, filled with renewed energy.

Millie looked over at Taylor, who immediately nodded and motioned for the others outside to come in.

The delivery staff came in carrying coffee and desserts Millie had ordered, along with the bonuses prepared for everyone.

“Wow!” A chorus of excited gasps filled the room.

Millie watched their reactions with joy.

“JM Investments has always kept things straight and simple,” she said with a cheerful grin. “Good food, vacation, and money to enjoy it all.”

It was still that familiar sense of ease. Applause broke out around her.

“This past year has been difficult for all of you,” Millie went on. “Raises, bonuses, and paid leave are already arranged. Taylor and the finance department will make an announcement later.”

“Right away,” Taylor replied with a firm nod.

“We’ve been here a year now, so it’s time to grow,” Millie said. “I’ve already rented the office next door, and it’s currently being set up. Soon, everyone can pick whichever workspace they prefer. We’ll also be bringing in new hires, so some of you will need to lead them.”

The room erupted in cheers. With Millie back, their benefits, their work environment, everything felt elevated again. And soon they would have more people to share the workload. If Millie were not still recovering and confined to a wheelchair, they would have lifted her into the air in excitement.

“Okay, that’s enough talking. Go enjoy the snacks,” Millie said with a warm smile.

“Yes!” Everyone hurried forward to grab their drinks and desserts.

Millie, Ari, and Myron made their way toward Millie’s office. Behind them, an assistant followed, carrying the familiar potted plant. They pushed the door open. Sunlight poured into the room. Nothing had changed; everything looked exactly as Millie remembered.

A bright smile appeared on her face. The assistant set the potted plant on the desk, then placed the framed photo beside it.

Millie lifted her gaze and met Myron’s eyes. They both smiled.

“Thank you for everything this past year,” Millie said softly.

Myron smiled. “Millie, you don’t need to thank me.”

She gave a small nod, then turned to Ari, who stood nearby, waiting with bright eyes. Millie reached out and gently pinched Ari’s cheek. “Thank you as well, Ari.”

Ari instantly leaned into Millie’s arms. “Mom, you don’t have to thank me either,” she said in a tender voice.

Holding her close, Millie felt the girl’s warmth. Ari was impossibly sweet.

Millie lifted her eyes toward the potted plant. Its leaves were still vibrant and full. A soft smile tugged at the corner of her mouth.

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