When Love's at Work Read online

“That’s not what I asked you.” Sheila caught the evasive answer with ease.

  Pure met Sheila’s gaze. “Yes, I’m interested.”

  “From what I know about Alex, he’s a loyal kind of guy. Until the divorce is final, he’ll be wearing that ring.”

  Judd Broadstreet appeared in Purity’s office doorway. “When you get a minute, Purity, I’d like to meet with you and go over a few things.”

  “Sure, Mr. Broadstreet.”

  “Call me Judd, everyone does.”

  Directing his attention to Sheila, Judd asked, “Sheila, will you set Purity up with an orientation to the facility and our programs? I want her to know everything about us so she can answer questions confidently when she’s out in the field.”

  “I’ll arrange it right now,” Sheila said, slipping past Judd and heading to her desk to schedule a meeting between Purity and Sally Murphy, the vice president of communications. Sally always had the latest information on programs, events and the latest gossip, as well.

  Pure gathered a legal pad, a pen and her calendar and followed Judd into his office. Purity made herself comfortable in one of the thick leather chairs. She wondered how much money had been spent on the furniture when simple cloth covered seating would be more cost effective.

  “Starry, Starry Night,” Judd said.

  “Pardon me?”

  “Starry, Starry Night. It’s the theme of our winter fundraiser. We do it every year. Sheila probably has a file with all the information on what’s been done in year’s past. The basic gist is that we get some top name stars to show up, sign autographs and take photos, and we charge a hefty admission price. The celebrities get exposure for doing a good deed, people are thrilled to meet the stars, and we get a nice chunk of change to put in our coffers.”

  “When’s the date?”

  “First Saturday in December.”

  “I’ll get right on it,” Purity commented, thinking that four months was hardly enough notice for a celebrity to make a commitment to being at a charity event. She would have liked to give them at least a year’s notice. Publicity would need to go out months in advance if they wanted a good turnout, and a good profit. She’d just have to work with what she was given.

  “In the meantime,” Judd continued, “we have the Garden Party in August, our annual Back-To-School Carnival Labor Day weekend, and we need to get something planned for Halloween and Thanksgiving.”

  Suddenly Purity was feeling very overwhelmed. Five events in four months.

  Shifting topics, Purity asked, “Judd, what is your policy about raises?”

  “You want a raise already?”

  “No, not me. I was thinking about Sheila Martin. She’s carried a heavy load for several years without any monetary compensation. Is it possible to give her an increase?”

  “How long has she been employed here?”

  “Around eight years.”

  “I’ll check into it and get back to you. We like to reward loyalty and hard work. If Sheila Martin has been displaying both, she definitely merits a raise.”

  “Thanks for checking, Judd,” Purity responded, rising from her chair and reaching across Judd’s desk to shake his hand. “I’m excited to get started.” And, scared to death, Purity thought to herself as she exited Judd’s office and made her way through the corridor back to her office. One thing at a time. First she needed to talk with Sheila, then go through the old files, and make a to-do list. Everything seemed more organized when she had a to-do list.

  Purity almost walked straight into Alex McCallister.

  “Whoa there,” Alex said, putting his arm out to stop their bodies from colliding.

  A bit stunned by their close proximity, Purity stared into Alex’s electric blue eyes. His dark unruly hair was defiantly sticking out above his suit collar. The lips Purity had dreamt about earlier in the week were intoxicatingly close.

  “Sorry,” Pure said. “Guess I wasn’t watching where I was going.”

  “No harm, no foul.”

  Damn that ring, Pure thought. Damn it to hell.

  Chapter Four

  Sheila and Purity spent the better part of the day going over event details, searching through files and figuring out each other’s work styles. Purify found Sheila to be efficient and highly capable. It was obvious that many of the contacts she made over the years were loyal to her.

  “Sheila, why didn’t you apply for the events coordinator position?”

  “I don’t have a college degree.” Sheila lowered her gaze, scrutinizing the pen in her hand, embarrassment weighing heavily on her shoulders.

  “Neither do I.”

  “You don’t?” Sheila’s head rose quickly. “But, I saw the job posting and it required a degree.”

  “I saw that, too, but I applied anyway. Sometimes experience, a solid work history and excellent references can persuade a potential employer to hire you.”

  The words echoed in Sheila’s ears. She had practically been doing the events coordinator’s job for the past six years. Sheila thought about applying for the job, but when she saw the degree requirement, she just pushed the notion aside, like she had so many other times with jobs she felt she wasn’t educated enough to qualify for.

  “You have great skills, Sheila,” Pure interrupted Sheila’s thoughts. “Don’t sell yourself short. If, at any time, you decide that you want a job higher up on the proverbial ladder, just let me know. I’ll write you a stellar recommendation.” Purity quickly added, “Not that I’m trying to get rid of you, far from it. I just want you to be fulfilled in your work. It’s more than a job, you know?”

  Sheila did know, and nodded her head. She’d never had a supervisor who actually cared about her well-being. Working with Purity Zyetta was turning into one of the most pleasant work arrangements Sheila had ever known.

  “We haven’t taken a break all day. Want to go out for some food and a drink?” Purity asked Sheila.

  “Definitely,” Sheila replied, “and the first drink’s on me, boss!”

  “You’re on,”

  The two women put their work stations in order, turned off their computers and agreed to take separate cars to the Olive Garden restaurant about a mile up the road.

  Purity was looking forward to getting to know more about her co-worker, as was Sheila. They laughed, drank, and shared stories over their chicken parmesan and angel hair pasta.

  As they parted ways to head home for the night, Purity realized she hadn’t called her friends to let them know she got the job. One thing happened after another and it all snowballed so quickly, she had simply forgotten.

  After calling Courtney, Meg and Tapestry, and receiving lots of celebratory attaboys, Pure was once again at her front door being welcomed into her calm oasis.

  It was exciting to think about the upcoming events. She really wanted Courtney to help her with the Halloween-themed event. She would come up with the most creepy and wonderful ideas that would thrill the kids. The adults may not be as pleased by Court’s off-beat expressions of creativity, but the kids always responded enthusiastically.

  She wanted Tapestry to help with the outdoor Garden Party, especially the decorations. Apparently last year they had roses for centerpieces and lavender and vanilla scented candles. Not only did it draw bees to the arrangements, the aromas clashed terribly and it made many people so nauseas they couldn’t eat their meal. Not to mention the disastrous results that could ensue if someone had an allergic reaction or was asthmatic. No, there would be no scented candles or scented flowers at the Garden Party this year.

  Pure remembered Sheila’s recounting of the tale and how she was blamed for making the decision about the centerpieces. Her face flushed with anger at receiving a reprimand for something she hadn’t even been in charge of.

  Pure really hoped that Judd Broadstreet would be able to work it out so Sheila received a raise.

  Injustice was one of the things that irritated Purity to no end. If you worked hard and tried to live your life with inte
grity, honor, honesty and kindness, it just seemed like life should treat you the same way. Of course, it didn’t always work that way, Pure knew, but she still tried to make her little corner of the world as just as possible.

  Purity was awakened in the middle of the night. Was it another flashback? She wasn’t drenched in sweat and her heart wasn’t palpitating. She heard a sound coming from just outside her window. As she peeked through her window blinds, she saw a kitten covered in orange, black and white fur. It was whining sorrowfully.

  No, she said to herself, I can’t have a pet. It would cost me a $300 deposit and $50 a month. No pets. She left the window and crawled back into bed. The kitty continued its lonely song. Pure knew she had earplugs some place, but where? She didn’t want a cat. She didn’t need a cat. She was not going to let it get to her.

  The sound stopped. “Thank God,” Purity said aloud.

  She settled back into a comfortable position and was almost asleep when she heard barking. Her eyes flew open. The kitten was so little. Images of a big dog barreling down on the sweet little kitty and chomping hard gave her feet flight. Before she knew it, Pure had turned off her alarm system and was opening the sliding glass door.

  “Kitty, kitty,” Purity called into the night. “Here, kitty, kitty. Come on sweetie. Kitty, kitty.”

  Crap! She’d have to traipse through the low brush and trees and she hadn’t put on any slippers. Pure headed into the quasi-jungle, still trying to coerce the kitty out into the open.

  The dog turned to face her, snapping and snarling. Pure didn’t want to take her eyes off the dog, but she wondered where the kitten was. She scanned the ground, but didn’t see it anywhere.

  “You better not have hurt that kitten or you will have me to answer to, buster!” Purity yelled loudly, shaking her finger at the dog menacingly.

  If a dog could laugh, then this one did. There was not one ounce of fear in the canine’s eyes.

  In her peripheral vision, Purity saw something move and realized it must be the kitten. All right, she thought, this calls for drastic measures.

  Waving her hands around wildly and jumping up and down, Pure yelled, “Get! Get out of here! Go! You mangy mutt! Go on!” Purity ran toward the dog, stomping0 her feet and trying to appear much larger than her 5’ 4” frame. Then Pure screamed. “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!”

  The dog either thought she was crazy or just got tired of the game, but it ran off, barking as it went.

  Purity quickly came forward and scooped the kitten up in her arms. It looked to be about three months old and was shivering.

  “Poor little thing. Were you scared?” Pure soothed, “It’s okay now. Everything is going to be just fine. That big, bad dog is gone and he’s not coming back. You’re safe with me.” Purity took the kitty inside and wrapped it in a small blanket. She got a bowl out of the cupboard and put some water in it. The kitten drank thirstily. She found a can of tuna, opened it and used a fork to mash it up until it was almost smooth like a paste. The kitten had ate feverishly.

  She’d need to get some kitten food tomorrow. And a litter box, and some toys and… Pure sighed. “I guess I’ve got a cat. What should we name you little one?”

  You’re getting ahead of yourself, her brain kicked in. This kitten could belong to someone. Remember the kitten you saw the kids playing with the other day? The markings were almost a spot on match. You need to post signs and check with the apartment manager to see if anyone has lost a cat.

  Dang if that sweet little thing hadn’t already nestled itself right into her heart.

  Mark Watterson was determined to beat Alex McCallister at this week’s competition, ahem, game of tennis. The two men gathered once a week for a game of something-or-other ever since Alex agreed to be a board member at The Kids’ Place. It was one of those overcast days when the skies were filled with grey clouds and the temperature just a bit too warm. Perfect for outdoor tennis.

  “You’re going down this time, McCallister.” Mark threatened his friend while he bounced a tennis ball on the court a couple of times.

  “Are you suffering from daydreams again, Watterson?” Alex countered.

  “The only dreams I’m having are ones involving you knee-deep in soapy water washing my dirt-encrusted pick-up truck when you lose today.”

  “You should spend more time thinking about that toothbrush you’re gonna be using to clean my Harley.”

  “Are you tough guys going to play or yack all day?” Purity interrupted their banter.

  Alex had been avoiding Purity Zyetta. He didn’t like the way his heart raced when she was around and that light lavender perfume she wore seemed to follow him around. It was damn disconcerting.

  “Purity,” Mark Watterson addressed his newest employee. “Good to see you. Do you play tennis?”

  “I haven’t for quite some time, but I used to hold my own on the court.”

  “We’ll have to play a few rounds,” Mark stated. “Is there something I can do for you?”

  “Yes,” Purity said, crossing over to the other side of the court in her bare feet so her high heels wouldn’t damage the court. “I need your signature on this voucher, since it’s over two thousand dollars.”

  “What’s it for?” Alex suddenly became interested.

  “It’s for the Garden Party food,” Purity explained, a bit annoyed that Alex was putting his nose in her business. After all, she wasn’t seeking his signature or approval. “Everyone loved Marsha Persimmony’s catering so well we’re going to use her services again.” Purity handed the voucher and a pen to the president. He reviewed the voucher, signed his name and handed the paperwork and pen back to Pure.

  “The food at the last event was terrific,” Alex said a bit begrudgingly.

  Did her lips have to look so inviting? And, her feet, for crying out loud, she had the prettiest feet he’d ever seen. Her toenails were painted a light pink and her skin was smooth.

  “I’m looking forward to the event,” Alex said, then promptly turned and headed back to the other side of the net. He needed to clear his head and put thoughts of Purity Zyetta out of his brain.

  “He’s got a lot on his mind,” Mark said. “I’m about to beat the daylights out of him and he’s going to spend hours washing my truck.”

  “I also wanted to thank you,” Purity said, knowing the men were anxious to begin their game, but not wanting to miss the opportunity to express her gratitude. “Judd told me that Sheila Martin’s raise was approved and that several employees received significant increases after you encouraged him to do some research and then bring a proposal before the board. I know it will make a big difference in Sheila’s life, and I’m sure in other people’s lives, as well.”

  “I was glad to do it. I’ve always thought hard work should be acknowledged and rewarded. The board feels the same way.”

  “Well, it does my heart good to know I’m working for an agency that respects and honors its workers. Thanks, again, for the signature on the voucher. I’ll leave you two to your match.”

  “No more delays, Watterson,” Alex resumed his good-natured ribbing. “A pretty woman isn’t going to divert my attention from the game.”

  Pretty woman? Was he referring to her? A thrill shot up Purity’s spine. Could it be possible that Alex McCallister was interested in her as much as she was interested in him? As she sat on the bench near the chain link fenced entry to the court, she watched Alex’s muscles flex and relax as he bounced on the balls of his feet and reached for a perfectly executed slice.

  She took her time putting her shoes back on. In 15-20 minutes Mr. McCallister would have a nice little sheen of sweat covering his toned body. Pure reluctantly headed back to her office. She would much rather have a cold drink in her hand and offer to be scorekeeper for the competitive event. Maybe another day.

  Thank God she was finally out of eyesight. Alex could feel Pure watching him and it was all he could do to pretend she didn’t exist.

  In the old days it would have bee
n easy. He had hardly ever been in The Kids’ Place office. Nowadays, he seemed to be involved in many of the organizations activities. It was the way he wanted it. Not a week went by that he wasn’t in the office or offering his services in the sports or computer areas.

  Having money was something Alex didn’t talk about much. When you inherited your money, everyone seemed to think you weren’t capable of earning it. He’d always worked and his father had instilled a blue collar work ethic in him. A hard day’s work equaled a hard day’s pay. Just because he got lucky and didn’t have to be employed, didn’t mean he was going to sit on his ass and do nothing all day.

  A college educated man, Alex knew that there were things schooling could not teach you: integrity, honesty, loyalty, self-worth, and pride in a job well done. He never made a commitment he didn’t keep and that earned him a handful of devoted friends, one of whom was Mark Watterson.

  After the best two out of three games were played, Alex and Mark shook hands. Mark had conveniently placed a key in his palm and transferred it to Alex’s hand during the handshake.

  “You can come by any time and wash her up.” Mark’s eyes were shining with glee at being this weeks’ winner.

  “I’ll come by this evening,” Alex said. “Basketball next week?”

  “You’re on.”

  Purity spent the better half of her morning making flyers to post around the apartment complex, complete with a picture of the kitten, where it had been found and her contact information.

  The apartment manager said no one had come into the office or called saying they were missing a pet and they weren’t aware of any female cats that were having litters. They did say that Mrs. Armstrong’s cat, Coco, was due in a couple of weeks, but she wasn’t in labor yet.

  Purity was glad, even though she didn’t show it. She hadn’t wanted a pet, but that kitten was so darn sweet.

  Pure had the kitten with her, she was so little she hardly weighed anything and she couldn’t bear to leave her all alone in an empty apartment.

  Next stop was her local pet store to get supplies. Names for the kitten had been flooding her thoughts: Pyewacket, Willow, Isabella, Annie. Nothing seemed to be just right.