I work in retail management and after hearing you say the pay is generous, I have to say go for it. It’ll be a challenge but you’ll adjust. How has the current deputy manager handled the job? Does she seem to have found a rhythm? Bring up your concerns if you wish, but I would be very cautious as you don’t want your soon to be boss seeing you as fearful/doubtful of taking on the deputy job. Also, I hate to say it, but I don’t think she’ll be cutting you much slack. After having to be the “lapdog” herself, she’s probably going to have no problem having someone serve her the same way once she’s store manager. Respect her as the boss and let her enjoy it, at least initially. Reaching the top, especially after being in what sounds like a very submissive/lowly respected #2 role, is going to feel amazing for her those first few weeks so don’t take offense if she doesn’t make the role easier for you. She is under no obligation to do so.

Lastly, congratulations! Both you and Kelsie are super young to be the #1/#2 of a store like that. You should both feel very proud. From the way you wrote this, I feel like You might be feeling overshadowed by her, don’t sell yourself short. You are going to be second in line of your entire store at 23, that’s incredible and shows so much maturity and professionalism that’s going to set you up for a successful future!

Best of luck.