The Able Sisters

Chapter 30

Labelle was able to get by after the loss of her job. She purposely avoided Harriet's shop, but she often saw her sometimes among the crowd and quickly ducked away.

Labelle's conversation with Gracie had offered her hope though, and early spring, there was rumor that construction would be starting. 

Labelle remembered excitedly walking to the ATM and hearing the sound of jackhammers. A large building in the center of the plaza was being constructed, and Labelle could only hope that Gracie was behind it.

Her hopes were correct she saw a golden logo mounted on the frame of the building one day. It read "GracieGrace" and underneath it was a help wanted sign.

Joy filled up inside her, and she cautiously approached the building. Construction was nearly complete, but there were still sounds of construction echoing around the area.

The door was already open, and Labelle quickly recognized Gracie. The tall giraffe stood, waving her hooves in the air as she pointed out where things would be placed.

"Not your right, my right!" she shouted to a construction worker wheeling a coat hanger.

"Um...hello," Labelle called, clearing her throat.

"Didn't I tell you the lamps were supposed to go in that corner?" Gracie said to another, clearly not hearing her.

"Excuse me," Labelle spoke up.

Gracie's head finally turned, and her gaze fell on the young hedgehog.

"I remember you! You're the country girl I met," Gracie said. She left the yelling aside and approached Labelle. "What was your name again? Able..."

"Labelle," she corrected her.

"Ah, that's right! So you did take on that nickname I gave you! How grand! That country name was ghastly anyway. What can I do for you?"

"Um...I saw the 'Help Wanted' sign in the door, and I was wondering..."

"Ah, about a job! I've had many come in and try to snag a spot, but I'll only be hiring the best of the best," Gracie explained.

Labelle felt her heart sink. "Oh, well...would you consider me?"

Gracie paused and glanced at her outfit. Labelle stood awkwardly, feeling as if the giraffe was scanning her entire body with x-ray vision.

"Hm," she said, now walking around Labelle.

Labelle stood stiffly, unsure what Gracie was thinking.

"The embroidery on this dress is well done. Your shoes do match the outfit. And your handbag is lovely," Gracie said, taking a step back. "Remind me, you were the one who knitted her own clothing, correct?"

Labelle nodded. "Yes, the dress is handmade."

"Ah, I remember much better now! Yes, I would consider an interview. Let's do it right now."

"R-right now?" Labelle stammered.

"Well, of course. I'm too busy to do it any other time."

"Shouldn't we go into a room or--"

"Nonsense. These construction workers don't care what you have to say. I might not either unless you convince me, so...it's time to test your fashion knowledge."

"What? Shouldn't we discuss my position--"

"This is a store all about fashion, so these questions are of the upmost importance," Gracie announced. "So you better pay attention."

Labelle nodded her head.

"First question: People who won't settle for anything but designer labels..

"Um...are my people," Labelle responded, trying her best to think just as Gracie would.

"Question 2...Honey, I just heard someone say 'That kid is the new hotness!' What do you think of that?"

Labelle had no idea where this was going, but she cleared her throat and spoke up. 

"Who says?" she countered.

"Okay, prepare yourself for the next question. You hit up a hot sale. You only have time to run for one area. Where do you go?"

"Bags, of course," Labelle replied.

"Darling, you'd best be ready for question number four. When is it appropriate to sport legwarmers?"

"Never!" Labelle immediately responded.

"Finally...what's your greatest asset?" 

"My face," Labelle replied.

"All right, dear. I know where you stand in the world of fashion. You're hired," Gracie replied.

"What? I got the job? Just like that?"

"I don't mess around when it comes to fashion, darling," Gracie told her. "You're my only employee so far, and might be my only one if no one else can live up to your beauty standards."

"I...this is great! When do I start?" Labelle asked excitedly.

"Show up here next week, 8 A.M. sharp. We have a lot to do, honey. It'll be the biggest and grandest opening of all."

"Shouldn't I have some training or something?" Labelle wondered. 

"I already know your fashion senses are keen. That's all you'll need," Gracie assured her. "But I would by a nice outfit to wear. Black would look nice on you."

"Oh, okay. Thank you. Thank you very much," Labelle told her. She dipped out and let out a little shriek of happiness as she came back out into the plaza. 

She wouldn't have to be as careful with her money now. Her fashion dreams were finally taking off. And now, she could guarantee that she could live well in the city on her own.