Devyn:Like what?
Cordy:Whatever you want. I saw an ad in the paper this morning for a mountain man looking for an assistant for two weeks. Maybe I'll call.
Cleary:You aren't serious.
Cordy:I'm completely serious.
My mind ticks over as the idea gains momentum.
Gem:I like the idea. Maybe I’ll take the plunge with that exhibition in the next town. Show off a few of my creations.
Peyton:It's insane, but I like it.
Mandy:Something we would never do? It's a terrible idea! We don’t do things for a reason.
Hmmm. Mandy has a point.
Devyn:Fine. I’m in. One of the volunteers at the rescue keeps wanting to fix me up with her nephew. Next time she offers, I promise I’ll say yes.
Cleary:But do you know the statistics of how many women go off to do something on their own and get targeted by a predator? I have statistics. So many statistics!
Yeah, Cleary loves her statistics.
Me:You know what they say–you don’t grow if you stay in your comfort zone.
Mandy:Gem, that's an amazing idea! Your pieces are beautiful! Maybe you’re right. I can’t believe I am saying this, but I’m in! I’m going to book that boudoir shoot I've been thinking about.
Warmth envelops me at Mandy’s praise. It’s always good to hear that others like my creations.
Peyton:Well, if you girls are game, I’m doing it too. I was going to send the latest conservation report to the property developer, but I’m going to confront him in person!
Cordy:So, we’re doing it then?
Cleary:I have a work conference in Vegas during Valentine’s. But I suppose I could dip my toe out of my comfort zone.
Peyton:I’m standing up for what I believe in, and I’m not backing down.
That’s my girl, Peyton.
Me:Yay!
Cleary:Maybe I’ll quit the Sheriff’s office and become a showgirl.
Mandy:I hate wine chats.
Devyn:Aw, Mandy, don’t blame the wine. Whatever happens, it will all be Cordy’s fault! I’m already regretting this.
Cordy:I’m actually looking forward to Valentine’s Day now. Yay! This is going to be so much fun!
My girls have lit a fire under me, and a few other ideas of how I can push myself out of my comfort zone pop into my head.
No more self-doubts.
No more sacrificing my wants and needs to please others.
It’s time for Gemma Stone to step forward and claim her place in this life.
Chapter 1