Peter's Plight and Time Will Tell

By Alyson Shaw

PETER'S PLIGHT
At the end of the day on Monday of the second week, Glenn asked Jenny to work later. It was an excuse to ask her out for dinner. As they were locking up the building they discovered a small boy hiding behind a sofa in the reception room. He was dirty and hungry and they discovered he was unable to speak. He was about five years old and looked to be of hispanic background. Glenn called on his friend detetive Ed Dunbar to try to locate the childs parents. But, no one had reported a missing child.
TIME WILL TELL
Ed was devastated when he learned of Pams disappearance. Even after using his investigative skills he could find no trace of her. Any clues left at the site of her abandoned car where she had been snatched, were washed away by the heavy rainfall. The citizens of Bridgton turned out in full force to scour the hills for the sheriffs wife along with his deputies, Morganfields Police Force and the FBI. But they had no clues to where she had been taken. His guts told him she was somewhere in this dense forest. He was shaken, couldnt sleep, couldnt eat, prowling night and day, following every lead but to no avail. With his brother by his side he wouldnt give up. He knew instinctively that Rufus Tanner was hehind it. It as was as though Pam had vanished off the face of the earth!

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Feb 11, 2012
• ISBN: 9781467870429

Alyson Shaw

Alyson Shaw (Pen name for) Dorothy McIlvenna Dorothy Shaul was born July 8, 1921 and died May 21, 2007. She married Robert McIlvenna October 20, 1941 her legacy: 6 Children: Dorothy, Robert, Kerry, Mary Ann, Phillip, and Patrick. 11 Grandchildren: Jamie, Bambi, Jessie, Bridget, Brittany, Shawn, Jeffrey, Ashton, Christopher, Derek, and Kirsten. 5 Great Grandchildren: Robert (Bobby), Constance, Abigail, Chloe, and Tyler. After raising her 6 kids she returned to school completing her G.E.D., then proceeded to college. On June 3, 1994, age 73, graduated with an ‘Associate’s Degree in Commercial Arts’. She worked several years helping produce an educational local Children’s TV show called ‘Daedal Doors’ in Michigan. She had her own business of dog grooming in her home. She wrote 3 novels, many children’s stories, drew her own illustrations, wrote music lyrics, one hymn and lots of poetry. She wrote two stories for young teenagers that she published herself. Her legacy was for her books to be published for her family. After she passed it was decided to have her books published for the world to enjoy. This book is two of her novels, to follow is one more novel titled ‘Stamp of Approval’, one book with all of her children stories, and one book of poetry. She was a very loving mother who said her Rosary daily helping her family thru many trials on her knees in prayer. She is now with the Lord but her legacy thru her books and family will live on forever.

Book preview

Chapter One

Jenny heard her name being called, Ms. Stoner, Mr. Bower will see you now. It’s about time, she thought. She had been sitting there anxiously waiting for what seemed like an eternity, when in fact, glancing at the large clock on the wall, it had only been ten Minutes.

She paused at the door reading the gold etched lettering; GLENN BOWER EDITOR in CHIEF. Okay, Jenny, this is it. I don’t know why I’m ‘so nervous. It’s not like I have never been interviewed before. But it has been a long time. Then as she crossed the threshold she stared at the man behind the desk. She stood frozen to the spot. It can’t be him… but it is. His name wasn’t Bower then, it was Archer… Glenn Archer. My God, how long has it been?

Standing behind his large highly polished desk he motioned for her to come in. Please, Ms. Stoner.

She forced herself to cross the floor to stand before him. He reached over to shake her hand. It was electrifying. He pulled it away quickly as though he felt the shock, too. Their eyes locked as they stared at each other. He looked puzzled as though trying to remember where he had seen her before. Nervously still clutching her handbag, she finally sat down on the chair he indicated. Crossing her legs at the ankles, she tried to show self-confidence.

Well Ms. Stoner, he began, your resume seems to be quite acceptable. However, I need to ask if you have had experience working with computers?

No Mr. Bower, she stammered, I haven’t. I intend to take classes to develop the skill.

Once again glancing at her resume he inquired, I see you have not been employed for a number of years. Why is that?

Hoping he wouldn’t notice her hands shaking she answered, I worked for a year after I married, but when my daughter was soon to arrive, I decided it wasn’t necessary. My husband had a very substantial income. When he was killed in an auto accident a year and a half ago, I found I needed to return to the work force.

I see, he hesitated before speaking again. Unfortunately without knowledge of computers, you are not qualified for the secretarial position advertised.

Her heart suddenly plunged, seeming to stop. She needed this job… needed it not just for the increase in her income but for her self-esteem.

However, he continued, there is another position opening up if you are interested.

My receptionist will be taking an early retirement next month due to poor health. You have the right qualifications and are… attractive. You may prove to be an asset to the company.

What do you mean by an asset? she asked, wondering what being attractive had to do with it.

Smiling the smile she remembered from so long ago he answered, It is always important to have someone well dressed and pleasant at the front desk. You seem to have both of those qualifications.

Of course she was interested, and told him so, But, you know, she added, that borders on chauvinism. Then she thought, I guess you blew it now, Jenny, with a remark like that.

A tiny hint of a smile quirked at the corner of his mouth as he thanked her for coming. He said he would call her to let her know of the starting date. He reached over to shake her hand, holding it a little too long. What started out to be a business-like gesture quickly changed to something else? Once again she felt herself quiver, her legs becoming weak. He released her hand, seeming to realize what had happened. He looked as confused as she felt. Thanking him she walked through the door, leaving it open behind her.

As Jenny was about to go through the double doors, she turned to look back at the reception desk. He was casually leaning against it watching her, his eyes seeking hers intensely. Embarrassed, she turned and left. Keep moving, Jenny, she told herself. He’s only a man. But what a man!

Yes, Glenn liked what he saw; slender figure… blonde hair with highlights of copper… hips slightly swaying over trim legs, and oh, those blue eyes. Very attractive indeed.

Her car was parked directly across from the building she had just left. She crossed over noticing the parking meter had not expired. She climbed in behind the steering wheel leaning her head against it, absorbing what had just happened. Finally gaining control of her emotions she told herself, what just happened Jenny girl, is that you have a job. One I know I will enjoy doing, much better than sitting behind a computer or typewriter all day, Right?

Looking at her watch she noticed it was not yet noon and she realized she was hungry. She had been so anxious about this interview, she hadn’t eaten this morning. Remembering a diner a couple of blocks away, she pulled out into the flow of traffic. She spotted the diner in the next block, and with turn signal on, pulled into the parking lot.

Leila’s Diner didn’t speak of class, but was clean and the food was good. She slid into a corner booth. After ordering a sandwich and salad, Jenny allowed her thoughts to turn inward. Memories came flooding back.

It was the beginning of her freshman year, and Sumpter High was new to her. Most of her friends had come up with her so she hadn’t felt totally lost. She attended the first football game and it was then that she noticed him. He brought in the winning touchdown for the Sumpter Bears. When he pulled off his helmet she had her first glimpse of the hero. Remembering back Jenny thought, he hasn’t changed much, the same good looks but with a look of maturity that made him even more appealing. The same thick chestnut brown hair, only he had worn it cropped short then. The same warm brown eyes with those long lashes that would make any girl die for… and that smile! Yes he is still as handsome as he was then.

I hope you enjoy your lunch, Leila was saying as she placed her sandwich and salad in front of her. What would you like to drink?

Coffee, just black please.

Jenny picked up her fork and began to pick at her salad. Still following her train of, thought she remembered how she had followed him around in the hallways at a distance. She had attended all the sporting events. Glenn had been an all-around athlete; football, track, and in swimming he was part of the diving team. He was magnificent in his swimming trunks. She was in love, she admitted to herself, although he hadn’t even known she existed. Then the school year ended and after graduation he was gone. She hadn’t seen him again… until today. It had been twelve years.

Leila refilled her coffee cup and removed the remains of the salad. She didn’t remember eating it. That first summer after he left she had mooned around driving her mother to distraction. Poor Mom. I remember lying on my bed listening to the strains of ‘Everlasting Love’ over and over again. Finally when the new school year began she had let him slip from her mind. But, she thought, after my reaction to him today, I wonder. Just the thought of it made her face flush. Well, it won’t happen again.

When she pulled into the driveway, she heard Karen calling to her, Hey Jenny, wait up.

Karen Ross was her next door neighbor and best friend. Jenny closed the car door waiting for Karen to catch up. Come on in, I was going to call you to join me in a cup of coffee. I have a lot to tell you. It’s been quite a day!

Unlocking the door, they entered the cheerful kitchen of the modest three bedroom house. Jenny removed her jacket, tossing it on the back of a chair before pouring the coffee into the two cups. What are you doing home so early?

Things were quiet so I took a half day off. After sitting down at the table, with the coffee and the cake Jenny placed in front of them, Karen inquired, Well, let’s hear what happened.

After careful thought Jenny began to relate today’s events, leaving out the parts about having known Glenn from another life. She wasn’t, as yet; ready to share that with anyone.

Wow Jen, that’s great. Karen remarked, Imagine working in the literary world. What’s he like?

What’s who like?

You know perfectly well who; your boss of course.

He’s just a man, that’s all. But by the flush on Jenny’s face, Karen knew he was not ‘just a man’ and felt there was more than Jenny wanted to talk about. She let the subject drop.

For a few minutes they drank their coffee and ate their cake in companionable silence. Karen picked up the trend by asking, What’s next, Jen?

I need to arrange for a sitter and check out my wardrobe but, looking at her watch she added, it will soon be time to pick up the kids from school.

I gotta go, too, Karen announced. I promised Jim I would meet him for lunch. If you want to go shopping one day, call me. I would love to help you pick out some new clothes.

When the door closed behind her friend, Jenny retrieved her shoes from under the table where she had kicked them off, and headed for the bedroom to change. After removing her skirt and blouse she pulled on an old sweatshirt and jeans. I have a feeling, she thought, nothing will ever be the same again.

And what about her children? She wondered how they would adapt to a working mother. She wasn’t worried about Susan; she was eight going on twenty. But Billy, on the other hand could be a problem. He was like any other six year old boy, a bundle of energy. He could be obstinate at times, always needing answers. Sometimes when I look at him, she thought, I can see Roger all over again, with his blonde mop of curly hair and those sparkling brown eyes. Well I’ll just have to take it one day at a time.

Then thinking of Roger she felt a pang, more than a pang, of guilt at her reaction to her new boss. Roger. She still missed him, but not desperately as she did at first. She remembered that fateful day, the moment when the voice on the phone told her he had been… killed in an auto accident. She had been expecting a phone call from him. He always called her when he left work, saying, I’m on my way home, Jenny. So when the phone rang it was his voice she was expecting to hear, not that of a stranger. She had been in a state of shock for a while. That had been a year and a half ago. The kids had taken it badly, as she knew they would. He had been a good father and her best friend, devoted to his family. The kids had adored him. Oh how she had loved him. But, he was gone, and as everyone told her repeatedly, life goes on. Pulling her thoughts back to the present she remembered she had to pick up the kids from school.

Glenn sat back in his big leather chair staring at the door for, he didn’t know how long. Calling Helen Carter on the extension he said, Helen, hold my calls. He didn’t feel like talking to anyone at the moment. Jenny Stoner had thrown him for a loop. No woman had ever affected him like this before. It wasn’t just that she was pretty, it was more than that. Glancing at her resume on the desk in front of him, he began to read through it. Of course, he thought, now I know why she seemed familiar to me. She was at Sumpter High the same time I was. Noting her graduation date he realized she would have been only a freshman when he was a senior. How was it I didn’t notice her then? I guess I was too busy to have any kind of social life. What with studies and sports, and all my spare time working here at the magazine. I had plenty of opportunities; girls were always leaving notes on my locker. I was just too busy to get involved. One thing for sure, I’m really looking forward to getting better acquainted with my soon-to-be new receptionist. Yes indeed! He was suddenly brought back to the present by a knock on his door. He put down the pencil he had been unconsciously rolling in his fingers and called, Enter.

Mr. Rutherford is here as you requested. Rutherford was a free-lance writer with a finger in every pie. When the man entered, Glenn rose from his chair and leaned across the desk to shake his hand. Please sit down, gesturing to the chair Jenny had just vacated. I’m glad you came, George. I need to go over this submission with you.

Is there something wrong with it?

Not at all, Glenn stated. I just need to go over some of the fine points with you. It was back to business.

For Jenny the two weeks since the interview had gone by quickly, preparing for the simple change in routine. Her mother had agreed to pick up Susan and Billy from school each day. She said, It will give me a chance to spend more time with them.

She had gone shopping with Karen and then to lunch one day when she had taken a day off from her job as a legal secretary. Jenny had already gone through her closet and decided her wardrobe wasn’t too bad to start with. Karen disagreed. Come on, Jenny, you need an addition of a few mix and match outfits and accessories. So they went shopping.

Now with that hurdle crossed, Jenny began to wonder when he would call. Then, as if on cue, the phone rang. When she picked up the receiver and heard his voice, she felt that tingle again. Get control of yourself, Jenny. He’s only a man.

Hello Ms. Stoner, this is Glenn Bower. (As if she didn’t know) Are you still interested in working for me?

Of course, Mr. Bower,

In that case, I wonder if you could begin on Monday. Helen will be leaving the following Friday. I think it would be advisable if you would work beside her to learn the rudiments of the position. She will acquaint you with everything you will need to know.

Fine. What time would you like me to be there?

Nine would be good. Normal working hours are nine to five. One more thing, please stop in at my office. We will need to take care of some paperwork before you begin.

Jenny thanked him, saying she would be there. Placing the phone back on its cradle she began to breathe normally again. What was the matter with her? Why was she allowing this man to affect her like this? She was acting like a giddy teenager. She poured herself another cup of coffee and sitting at the kitchen table, pondered her emotional state. I will have to remember to keep my feelings on a business-like level while working so close to him… it won’t be easy.

Chapter Two

It was Monday morning, a day Jenny had been eagerly awaiting. Now that it was here, she was nervous. It had been a long time since she had held a job. It was not only that, that made her apprehensive, but meeting her boss again. She had such mixed feelings about the man.

She had selected one of her new suits to wear for this first impression… or second impression if you counted the interview. The jacket was a blend of blues and grays, with a gray skirt that stopped just above her knees. She wore a simple pale blue blouse under the jacket. Her new heels and handbag completed the picture. After checking her make-up and hair, she was satisfied.

She had dropped the kids off at school and now here she was sitting in her Mustang. She looked across at the building that housed the magazine. It was very old and had obviously been renovated, without losing its character. The upper floor had large windows that extended all the way across the front of the edifice. The CHALLENGE MAGAZINE sign that hung just above the entrance with its double doors and its yellow brick front, gave a feeling of dignity. The whole picture fit in nicely with the other buildings on Henry Street. Jenny looked at the parking meter and decided she had better park in the lot next to the building. Luckily she found a parking place right away. She proceeded to the entrance but just as she was about to go through, she collided with a hard body and almost toppled over. A pair of strong hands on her shoulders kept her from falling. She looked up to see a face with laughing green eyes, a red beard and a crop of unruly red hair above.

You should watch where you’re going, little lady, the man said.

So should you, she retorted. I should thank you, however, for keeping me from falling.

My pleasure, he responded with a smile and continued out through the double doors.

Jenny stood in the lobby for a minute to look around. It was fairly large with comfortable looking furniture; It looked more like a lobby in a hotel. The reception desk, where she would be working, was a curved stationery object that stood in a dominant place at the back of the room. On either side of the desk a corridor extended back to the offices. She remembered that Glenn’s office was to the right. She stopped at the desk to state her purpose.

Helen Carter was a middle aged woman, slightly taller than Jenny herself, but leaning toward the plump side. She was a no-nonsense kind of woman. Jenny liked her immediately. Go right in, Ms. Stoner, she said, Mr. Bower is expecting you.

Yes, Glenn was waiting for her with great anticipation. He hadn’t been able to get her out of his head. He had been leaning back in his leather chair, wondering if she would affect him the same way she did the last time she was here. No woman had ever been able to stir these feelings in him before. He was no plaster saint; he had had his share of casual affairs but he had always been able to walk away without a second thought. But, this woman was different. When he heard the rap on the door, he sat up and shook his head. Dear God, what’s the matter with me?

He got up and walking to the door let her in. She was just as pretty as he remembered. After greeting her, he returned to his position behind the desk placing a barrier between them. She followed him to sit in the same chair she had used I during the interview.

Before we acquaint you with your duties, he said, there are papers to fill out. After placing them before her and explaining their purpose, she signed them only after reading them carefully. He noticed how intent she was to detail, and was pleased.

He stood up and walking around from behind his desk, held out his hand to her. Now that we have that out of the way, why don’t I give you a tour of the building to meet the rest of the staff?

Their eyes met and held, until at last she said, Thank you, I’d like that. With his hand under her elbow he escorted her through the door and down the hallway to the right. There were three offices on that side. The one next to Glenn’s belonged to the Assistant Editor, Ken Davis. He greeted her warmly saying, Happy to have you aboard, Ms. Jennifer stoner. May I call you Jennifer?

Yes of course, but I prefer Jenny. Ken Davis would be considered quite handsome with his blonde good looks, she thought, but doesn’t seem to be aware of it.

As they turned to move on, Glenn said, Ken, stop in to see me before you leave today. Rutherford was here and I need for you to follow up on his article. Then to Jenny, he explained, You will hear the name of George Rutherford quite often around here. He is a great complainer, always stirring up trouble. But, as they say, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

Next was the office of Managing Editor, Margaret (Maggie) Thornton, a striking brunette. She welcomed Jenny but there was a warning in her manner. The look Jenny received from the cool, gray eyes was as though an ice-cube had been dropped down her back. However the icy stare changed to fire when the woman turned to Glenn. I wonder, Jenny thought, if there is more than a business relationship between them.

Then she was introduced to Pam Lennox, who held the secretarial position Jenny had originally applied for. She was petite with a pixie-like appearance. Her office was on the other side of the wall behind the reception desk with its computers, copiers and fax machines. It had access from both corridors. The other part of the room was the lunch room.

Next Jenny was ushered through double doors at the far end of the lunchroom where Glenn explained, This is where the magazine all comes together. He called to an elderly man on the other end of the room, Hey Jake, have you got a minute? As Jake approached, he continued, "I would like you to meet our new receptionist, Jennifer Stoner. Jake had a short stocky build, with a crop of unruly gray hair on his head. He had a grin that made her feel that he was someone she could count on in a pinch.

He was head of production and Glenn watched Jenny as Jake gave her the grand tour. The warehouse-type room contained the printing presses and other equipment necessary for assembling the periodical. Jenny was fascinated with the sights and smells of this huge busy room. She asked questions about each piece of equipment and received Jake’s undivided attention. The old man warmed to her at once. He always appreciated a good opportunity to show off his expertise.

Glenn was pleased to notice her obvious interest. Most of his employees were only interested in their own part of the production. Jenny glanced at him when she felt his eyes on her. There was something in his expression that set her heart pounding. She flushed at his mutual response… or was she just imagining it? She thanked Jake for showing her around. Glenn ushered her back out through the double doors and down the other corridor toward the front. There were four more offices; Lester Wright, head of Public Affairs… Sandra Farr, Editor of Beauty and Fashion. She looked the way Jenny would expect a fashion editor to look. Then there was Georgia Andrews, Health and Food Editor who greeted them with warmth and reminded Glenn to eat and exercise regularly. He just chuckled and said, Yes Mother. Just looking at her round pleasant face made Jenny’s mouth turn up in a broad smile. Lastly there was Bert Morley, Advertising Department. He rose to greet her with a Welcome to the family, and a hearty handshake.

Standing waiting for the elevator that would take them upstairs, Glenn was saying, The whole upper floor is devoted to the artists, layouts and the preparations for printing. The doors opened and they entered. The heat from his hand on her back startled her.

It’s a good thing my back is turned, Jenny thought. Her face became a rosy pink. She took a deep breath before turning around to face the front of the elevator. With a sideways glance she noticed Glenn watching her with a puzzled look. The moment was interrupted when the doors opened and they stepped out.

The enormous room was buzzing with activity. There were two huge tables; one for layouts and the other for whatever projects deemed necessary at any given time. As Jenny turned to look around, who should magically appear before her? The same red-haired bearded giant she had bumped into at the main door earlier in the day.

With a broad grin and an obviously phony Irish accent he said, Well, little lady, we meet again. Tim Doherty at your service, ma’am.

On his shoulder he toted a very heavy looking camera, and beside him a young barely-over-teenage young man. Glenn began the introductions with, Apparently you have already met our photographer and this is Lenny Martin his assistant.

Yes, Jenny laughingly said, we literally bumped into each other this morning. Glenn looked from one to the other, deciding not to pursue it further, knowing Tim as he did. Lenny timidly shook her hand after he introduced her as Our new receptionist, Jennifer Stoner.

Before Tim could acknowledge her, Glenn asked, Where are you off to today, Tim?

I’m off to do some shooting at that construction site on North End Street. There seems to be some question of the legality of their rights.

Good, Glenn agreed, but, I want you to take Lester with you to take down any information you should pick up.

When Jenny was introduced to the rest of the staff up there, they were all eager to show her around. She found it to be very exciting. Glenn had a message for each of them.

Finally they were on the elevator riding down to the main floor. He escorted her to the reception desk where he left her with Helen Carter, who immediately began to explain her various duties.

By the end of the week, Jenny felt comfortable with the job and the staff. She made a few minor mistakes such as switching calls to the wrong extension, and calling people by the wrong name. Helen said it was no big deal.

On Friday, the whole staff surprised Helen with a retirement party. Georgia brought a beautifully decorated cake, the Art Department created the biggest and most outlandish card for everyone to sign wishing Helen the best and a long life ahead. They all brought presents. There was a feeling of warmth among them all. Jenny felt she, too, had become a part of the Challenge Magazine family.

The next two weeks went along fairly well with Jenny and the children falling into a routine, and only a few minor incidents. Billy, of course, was being his usual difficult self. However they did like going to their grandparent’s house after school, and somehow managed not to quarrel too much when they were there. Susan was always a wealth of information, telling everything that went on each day. When Jenny realized she would have to make other arrangements for the summer months she registered them at the WMCA where they had an excellent day-care center. Susan was eager to attend because some of her friends from school would be going there too. Billy, however, stated flat out that he would not. After a lot of persuasion, pointing out the exciting things they would be doing, he said, Okay.

Jenny had readily been accepted at the magazine as the new receptionist, feeling to be an integral part of the organization. They all stopped to chat and joke as they passed her desk, except high and mighty-cold-as-ice Maggie Thornton. She never failed to complain about something or other, looking upon Jenny as a threat… although there had been no reason for such animosity. Actually, Glenn had gone out of his way to treat her with indifference, still calling her Ms. Stoner, while she was Jenny to everyone else

She was confused. There was still that pull between them, and while he was holding her at bay, she knew he felt it, too. That’s fine with me, she thought. I’m not ready for any kind of relationship. It’s just too soon after Roger’s death, especially with my boss.

Chapter Three

It was a beautiful day in May. Mother Nature had outdone herself this time. Jenny stood there on her porch breathing in the fragrances of spring and listening to the songs of the birds. The forsythia was in bloom and the fruit trees in full blossom. She wore her pink suit, with a white blouse and appeared to be an integral part of the whole scene. Glancing at her watch she had to prod herself into action. Get going, Jenny, or you’ll be late. The kids were already in the car waiting to be dropped off at school. Susan impatiently gave a toot on the horn reminding Jenny to hurry.

It was the first Monday of the month. The magazine would have already hit the stands. Things seemed to slow down during this first week, but not for long. It would be back to normal, whatever that was, once more preparing for the next issue. As she entered the building Tim almost bowled her over again. They both laughed. We’ll have to quit meeting like this, little lady! He once again tipped his imaginary hat. He was on his way to a shoot, with Lenny trailing along behind.

The morning had been going well, but not for long. George Rutherford came charging in like a raging bull shouting, Is he in? Tell him I’m here.

Is he expecting you, Mr. Rutherford? Jenny inquired.

Still shouting, with a cigar clamped firmly between his teeth, It doesn’t matter… he’ll see me.

Jenny was about to announce the man when Glenn came out of his office to see what was causing the commotion.

I have to speak to you, Bower.

Glenn ushered him into his office, and turning said, Hold all my calls, Jenny. He slammed the office door behind him as he approached his desk. What’s this all about, Mr. Rutherford? Please sit down, so we can discuss this problem in a civilized manner.

Would you like a cup of coffee? Then without waiting for an answer he called Jenny on her extension, Please ask Lester to come to my office and ask him to bring a cup of coffee for Mr. Rutherford. Glenn knew whatever the complaint; it had to have something to do with the North End construction site. He wanted his Public Affairs man present to hear what went on.

Jenny called Lester Wright, passing on the message. I could use a cup of coffee, too, after that encounter, she thought. It wasn’t quiet for long, the phones started ringing again. One problem after another all day. Then to make matters worse, the computers went out. She was set upon to find a service man to put the machines back in order. After exhausting sources she gave up trying. One company agreed to come out tomorrow. Jenny rolled her eyes upward, why me?

She tapped on Glenn’s door to report her findings. He wasn’t happy about it, but there wasn’t much he could do. He called to her as she was about to leave. Has Pam left yet, Jenny?

Yes Mr. Bower, she has gone for the day.

Well in that case, would you mind staying a little longer? I have some letters that need to be posted. Could you take them home to type and mail for me?

She said she would be happy to do it. But when had he begun to call her ‘Jenny’? And where had the day gone?

By the time he at last emerged from his office with the papers in hand, it was past closing time. He handed her the papers with a few instructions adding, Please wait for me. I want to make sure the lights are all out.

While she waited for him, a movement behind one of the sofas caught her eye. She listened and sure enough there was someone or something hiding behind it. She heard a shuffling sound and what sounded like a sob. Glenn returned at that point. Jenny beckoned to him, pointing to the sofa and placing her finger to her lips for him to be quiet. Glenn moved to the end of the sofa saying in a loud voice, Come on out of there, whoever you are! A small figure scooted out from the opposite end of the sofa and ran behind the reception desk. Glenn hurried after him (or her) while Jenny blocked the other end. Glenn came out from behind holding a small boy by the collar of his jacket. He was very dirty and very scared… a boy of about four or five years of age. He had huge dark eyes that were pouring tears down his cheeks, leaving tracks down his dirty face.

Glenn picked up the boy and stood him on a chair to better see him. Well, speak up boy. What are you doing here? The child just stood there staring at this strange man. Glenn continued to question him, Can’t you talk? Much to his surprise, the boy just shook his head.

Jenny had gone outside to see if anyone was looking for the child. No one out there, as a matter of fact the streets seem deserted, she remarked as she strode toward her boss. What do we do now, Glenn?

After puzzling the situation, he answered. We will have to notify the police. I have a friend in the department. I’ll call Ed. He’ll know what to do. In the meantime, maybe you could take him to the restroom and clean him up. Then go find him something to eat, he’s probably hungry by now.

Jenny proceeded to do as he asked, picking up the boy and talking to him in a soft soothing voice. All the while asking where his mother was. She could not get him to utter a word. After washing him up and encouraging him to use the lavatory, Jenny carried him to the lunchroom. Digging into her purse to locate the right change for the machines, she realized she didn’t have the right amount. She pulled out two one dollar bills, sliding them into the slot of the change machine. She gathered up the coins and approached the vending machine. With a container of chocolate milk and a sandwich she sat the boy down at the table to eat. He was obviously very hungry. She wondered how long it had been since he had eaten, poor little tyke.

Suddenly Jenny remembered her own children. She realized she hadn’t called her mother. Glancing at her watch she saw she should have been there an hour ago. Picking up the phone on Pam’s desk she punched the numbers. When her mother answered Jenny apologized for being late, asking how the kids were. Her mother assured her they were fine. Jenny quickly explained about the lost child and what was happening. Don’t worry, honey, we’ll keep Susan and Billy overnight, Edith assured her daughter. I always keep extra clothing here for them. I’ll get them off to school tomorrow. Jenny thanked her hanging up the phone.

When she returned to the boy he had eaten everything, and had fallen asleep with his head on the table. Her heart went out to him. She picked him up gathering him to her as she would her own children. She carried him back to the lobby and laid him down on the sofa. Using her handkerchief she gently wiped the ring of chocolate from around his mouth. Glenn removed his suit coat and covered the sleeping child. When he stood up he looked at Jenny with tenderness in his warm brown eyes. Her eyes locked with his and held for what seemed to be an eternity. He finally broke the spell stammering, I’ll go get us some coffee. Do you take cream or sugar in yours?

No, just black, please.

When he returned they sat quietly