I dont understand, Marina said softly as she placed the placard on the table and wiped tears from her cheek.

Do you remember what I told you the other day about Melissa working with some investors about buying the Planet and that they would more than likely be willing to be silent partners in the venture? Cecilia asked standing on the opposite side of Marina than where Melissa stood.

Yes she replied looking up at Cecilia in confusion.

Well meet your investors. Cecilia waved her hand around the table. Not one person could help but have giddy smiles on their faces.

You? All of you bought the Planet? Marina asked, her joyful tears falling freely now as she smiled and wiped a few away. Howwhy?

The why part is easy we love you, Bette said looking at Marina with heartfelt concern and admiration on her face. We couldnt let something that you have worked so hard to build slip away from you. Everyone nodded their heads in agreement with Bette.

Besides you owe us coffee for life! And if coughing up a bit of our savings is what it takes to get that, then we were all for it, Alice said slapping Shane on the shoulder.

But how

That was all Melissa. She convinced the bank that allowing the person that ran the place to purchase the entire business from them would be the only way that they would keep their profits. And not lose some VERY big customers, Shane said winking at Melissa.

We just need you to sign the final paperwork. Pen? Melissa held up an elegant silver pen and Marina took it with a shaking hand. She couldnt control her emotions as she absently signed where Melissa instructed her to sign. The entire time all Marina could think about was the fact she was glad she practiced writing with her left hand when she was a child. As soon as she finished signing the last page, the pop of a champagne bottle rang out. Gwen stood in the kitchen holding up a golden bottle of champagne. She quickly poured a small amount in several glasses as Dana and Alice helped her deliver them to everyone around the table. When everyone held a glass in their hand, Melissa raised hers for a toast.