Shady Gold: Golden Wishes, #1

By Ruby Romano

Kate Stevens flies to Miami to visit her sister before moving to L.A. where her daughter temporarily lives with Kate's ex-husband.

As Kate struggles at the baggage claim, an attractive man assists her and offers her a lift in his limousine. She declines. Later she again meets Victorio De Vincente in a social setting, learns his name and falls under the romantic Italian's spell. Unable to resist Vic's ardent pursuit, she gives in to his enticing chemistry and falls deeply in love with the grandson of a known Mafia boss.

Kate wins Vic's heart as well and he showers her with expensive gifts while she publicly defends the successful businessman against claims he has ties to the Sicilian Mafia. Vic showers her with expensive gifts and unending love, but must keep their fledgling courtship out of the public's watchful eye.

After the most exhilarating year of her life, Kate learns a secret certain to bring scandal to everyone involved. Unsure which path is best, Kate hides in a Hollywood guest cottage near her daughter, wondering if Vic's supposed Shady Gold can buy true happiness?

Will their yearning turn in to heartbreak instead of the loving reunion they both so deeply desire?

What's next for Kate and Vic?

• Language: English
• Publisher: M P Publishing
• Release date: May 1, 2019
• ISBN: 9781386449096

Book preview

Chapter One

Fish!

Kate Stevens used her father's favorite cuss word when she found the baggage carousel in Miami's International Airport. She'd only stopped for five minutes at the gift shop, but now stared at a solid wall of sturdy linebackers guarding the luggage belt like defensemen on the five-yard line.

She circled the huddle again then glanced up when all shapes and sizes of travel gear shot onto the moving belt. When her own bulging suitcase appeared, the primordial urge to claim it overcame her usual restraint and she thrust an arm into a small space between two men and began to wiggle through.

A startled stranger barked Where the hell are you—?

Kate didn't answer. She'd sucked in a breath to keep her full bosom from brushing the man on her right, but couldn't prevent her round derriere from sliding across the speaker's hard, muscular thigh.

Is your stuff so precious you can't wait your turn?

His wry tone made her hesitate, but he did step back for her to sidle in front of him.

Sorry, I didn't expect mine so soon. Someone's waiting outside.

Pretty universal in here, he growled into her auburn curls. Which treasure chest is yours?

This bulky brown... with the orange...ah... bicycle bungee cords, she stammered as she reached for it, but her fingertips only grazed the handle. Damn, fish! I couldn't grab hold.

Stay cool. The man chuckled. They usually come around again.

Of course, I know that. Kate sent a fast glance up to his twinkling brown eyes and dark curly hair. When her green eyes landed on his amused grin, she quickly turned back down where the stuffed suitcase was gliding toward them again.

Is that... uh... leather? He gently pushed her aside. It looks damned heavy.

It's a bit bulky, pretty much all I own— Kate babbled as he grabbed the strapped suitcase and set it at her feet.

Thank you so much. She smiled, glanced down again. At least this abysmal antique has wheels.

Oh, sure. He wrestled the bag upright.

Can't thank you... uh... enough. Kate's voice shook as a luggage bound teenager pushed between them.

When the man turned back to the luggage belt she mumbled, Shut up and move out, and quickly tucked her purse, gift and carry on under an elastic cord. She pulled the load several feet.

Then the broken handle she'd taped came off in her hand and she lurched forward.

Miserable fishing cow carcass, she said, kicking her mother's old relic. Peering around, she slipped off her new canvas casual to rub an aching toe. The few porters were helping others, the rental cart stand empty. She dropped her shoe, grimaced as her tender toe slid in, then began to push, hoping the elevator music plus crowd noise covered the piercing squeal of a wobbling wheel.

Her burden traveled only two yards before the screeching castor completely broke off, tilted her load and dropped all tucked items to the shiny plastic floor. When she leaned down to grab the purse and gift then yank at her carry-on, the rush of passengers weaving by made her feel like a giant boulder splitting a rushing river.

One day only, a tow is dirt cheap, the man from the carousel said, stopping beside her.

Name your price. Kate blew out a breath. Otherwise I better pitch a tent.

Maybe a last Boy Scout badge for helping ... but you're not little or old ... He grinned. Anyway, they don't allow no camping in here.

At least he didn't add that I was no lady either to cap that off, Kate thought as she returned his smile.

The man waited while she smashed the gift bag into her purse and grabbed her carry-on before he tossed his suit bag over a shoulder, picked up 'old leather' by its handle and strode toward security checkout. Kate trotted gratefully behind.

When they reached the checkout gate, he put her bag down and pulled his ticket from a pocket. After spending several seconds rummaging under the wrinkled gift bag, faded make-up pouch and Choco-munch, granola bar wrappers for hers, Kate sent her mentor an apologetic grimace.

His friendly shrug made Kate realize that even after three years she still expected the same tight-lipped, annoyed expression her ex-husband often wore when she messed up.

Fantastic city, new friends and a totally optimistic outlook, she reminded herself.

Outside, a burly man who could pass for a professional wrestler hurried forward and carried their bags toward an ivory colored limousine parked at the curb. He placed the man's overnighter in the trunk, then pointed toward Kate's orange-strapped bundle. Le signore es con noi? he asked with raised brows.

Can we give you a lift? Her hero nodded toward the limo.

No thanks... I'm fine, Kate stammered as she gazed again into those warm brown eyes. My sister's probably... But thank you so much. I mean really, without your... Her voice faded as she watched him fold his legs in the limo, roll down his window and wave.

Kate waved back and sent her most brilliant smile until the limo merged into the stream of traffic.

She sighed. What a Dream Boat.

That's what Mom called Dad.

Her parents loved dancing to romantic jazz tunes.

But, my tall, dark Dream Boat sailed off. She whispered a soft rap song, To wherever this flaming sun sets.

Kate glanced up through the swirl of damp curls sticking to her forehead. And my long-lost sister better pour me a chilled, drenching quaff.

An ancient Mustang convertible screeched to the curb and her sister waved, Katie, it's me. Welcome to sunshine and gators.

Kate pushed the awkward bundle toward the opened trunk and a polite young man helped her lift it in. She slid in beside Mary Beth.

Her sister hugged her tight, then burst with her usual enthusiasm. How are you, Honey? Did the flight go all right? It's so great to have you here. She steered the Mustang onto the airport exit ramp.

Kate held her flying curls and swiveled her head from high-rise building to crashing white-capped waves. I'm happy to see you too and thrilled to catch my first glimpse of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. You must love those warm, sandy beaches.

After they exited the ramp, Mary Beth drove the convertible along a busy, palm-lined avenue and turned left onto a wide boulevard where the lanes were separated by leafy trees and flowering shrubs.

We'll haunt that mall. She nodded toward a cluster of stores.

A few miles later, they rode along a short, narrow street of small homes spotty with unkempt yards. When they reached a set of rusted metal pillars, Mary Beth passed through at a crawl.

Was that a formal gate? Kate asked as she grabbed the armrest.

Her sister grunted a barely understood Some time ago as she steered the creaking Mustang over deep ruts and scattered gravel.

They parked near a pitted, three story stucco building surrounded by a sagging chain link fence. Kate's voice rose. Is your apartment in here? This is not at all what I... As her words tapered off, she hoped her surprised comment hadn't sounded mean.

Mary Beth jumped out, opened the trunk and began to yank at the heavy bag. Once it hit the ground, she closed the lid and sent Kate an apologetic grin. Welcome to Tawdry Tower. The ambience may be questionable, but the price is definitely right.

One desirable feature, Kate tried to sound positive.

I can guess what you're thinking. That an historic monument this neglected might not be featured on Sunbelt postcards, but we underpaid females need to save our money, right?

Yes, of course. Kate forced a smile, but after another fast glance at a soil streaked window draped with a faded floral sheet, she added a silent Not in this century either to her sister's post card assessment. Back in Ohio, paint this dismal was saved for the County Detention Center and even there, prisoners applied a fresh coat now and then. Not that she expected five-star luxury, but a rundown complex like this had never occurred to her. It was nothing like those waterfront hi-rises she'd seen on TV.

Pull your chin off your chest, Queen Katherine. Mary Beth wheezed as she pushed the heavy load toward a graffiti-scratched metal door. Wait 'til you get inside.

Once they pulled the heavy door open, Mary Beth tugged the cumbersome load up a flight of concrete stairs while Kate pushed from below.

When they reached the second floor hall Mary Beth unlocked a deadbolt and with a hearty, Ta Da threw the door open and held it so Kate could shove her bag into the brightly furnished room.

As an equal opportunity shopper, I proudly present this newly upholstered, Salvation Army suite. Mary Beth gestured toward a blue denim couch lined with startling red plaid pillows and a matching overstuffed chair set against a lime green wall. Restored in this private studio by these ten diligent digits. She wiggled her fingers.

Kate patted a cushion. Didn't know you could sew.

Me, either. Mary Beth plopped on her colorful handiwork. But when a previous tenant left an old Singer in a closet, Mom's artsy-crafty gene kicked in.

Kate eased down beside her. Okay, I'm impressed.

I can't take all the credit for creating a decor this artistically eclectic. For instance that genuine antique oak piece from Am Vet's. Mary Beth nodded toward a bright blue dining table. Just as I opened my first can of paint, an unsuspecting handyman dropped by and actually agreed to my new trade policy.

Kate smiled. You always were the best deal maker.

This one was easy Mary Beth shrugged. I offered to swap one of my famous peanut butter and banana sandwiches, which I already knew he loved, for his extraordinary strength and skill. The new exchange concept kind of caught him by surprise, but results are what matter. Right?

Kate nodded.

I've decided that the good things in life are mostly damned luck, Mary Beth philosophized as she stood. And I never expected to live here this long, but before my last cellmate bailed, I met this terrific guy and he hopelessly scrambled my priorities. You'll meet David tonight. He's taking us to Chinese. She studied Kate. You look a tad weary, girl. Sit tight while I conjure up a sugar fix.

Thanks. Kate rested her head against a red pillow. I don't remember the last time I was waited on.

In fact, she couldn't remember the last time she'd just sat, except on the plane. And there, after Kate had fastened her seat belt, the reality of leaving everything familiar behind had made her stomach turn. As she watched her hometown fade from sight, a sick, hollow feeling had swept her entire body.

I would pick the most impossible place to panic, she'd mumbled, closing her eyes.

To calm frayed nerves and encourage sagging spirits to rise, she'd taken a deep breath and concentrated on seeing her sister and swimming in the warm waves, thinking she might even try on a bikini since she'd lost a few pounds. Don't get too carried away.

Mary Beth sent Kate a flattering glance as she set a tray with cookies and iced tea on the small rattan chest in front of her. Well, you look fantastic. In spite of your recent battle with life's most tumultuous upheavals, this tired and wistful look is actually quite appealing.

Kate laughed. Tired yes, but wistful sounds too young.

Tell me about Cheryl. I can't believe your daughter is almost grown. Your ex showed a lot of nerve when he moved an idol-drooling teenager to Hollywood.

Cheryl sounds fine. Jim gave a huge sales pitch about living near TV studios and movie lots and like most girls her age, she fell for it. It was harder to convince me that she'd be better off living with him and his new family until I finished my final temp job.

Kate nibbled a cookie then frowned. Is this Mom's oatmeal recipe?

Good call. I want you to feel right at home. I was afraid you'd pass me by and head straight to California.

I thought about moving to L.A., but attacking that sprawling metropolis on my own takes more courage and cash than I can spare right now. According to job sites out there, even the 'hot shot attorneys for the stars' pay is a ton less than what Jim earns designing animation for United Studios.

Sounds like Jim got it all.

He knows it and part of what convinced me was Jim's eight-year old stepdaughter who answered our daughter's prayer for a sister. I better call Cheryl, let her know I arrived.

As Kate reached for her purse, a loud metal-band racket blared from it.

Twin brain waves, Mary Beth covered one ear as she handed Kate her purse.

Cheryl? Kate dug for her phone to cut the frantic crashing mid-crescendo. Whatever this blasting ring tone is, it's embarrassing and almost deafening.

See. I told you, Mom. I put it there so you'd have no excuse to ignore me. When did you arrive? I've been waiting forever.

My plane was late. I'm at Aunt Mary Beth's now.

I've been dying to tell you about Daddy's fab apartment. He says a house may come later, but real estate's entirely crazy in California.

I know, Honey, one of the reasons I'm not out there yet.

You're speaking to the newest freshman at Beverly Hills High. I enroll next week.

Terrific! Kate tried to sound enthusiastic but hearing her child's familiar giggle made her feel both joyful and depressed.

My emotions are such a muddle.

Besides moving, we went school shopping. Cindy only allowed us a glimpse of Rodeo Drive, then drove right by to a discount store. But my new friend, Nicole, says Rodeo's so close we can walk.

I found a cute bear for your collection, Kate broke in. I'll send it soon.

Thanks, but no hurry, I don't even know where those boxes are. Cheryl lowered her voice. But if you can spare cash, I can really use that. Hate to ask, but Daddy has me on this strangling allowance. Can you believe he keeps whining about having to save, even with his new, glam job?

Of course he has to save, Honey, Kate said. Didn't you just say that L.A. is expensive?

When are you coming, Mom? I really miss you. Cindy is okay but... you know... It's not like she's my real mother.

Soon as I can. In the meantime, we'll chat every day and I'll find out how to send money. Is this the best time to call? Hearing an affirmative, she added, Aunt Mary Beth says hello. She just served tea and Grandma's cookies. Never forget how much I love you.

Cheryl's Love you, too, ceased abruptly when Kate hit End and reached for a napkin to wipe her damp cheeks.

Sorry, Sis. Mary Beth patted her arm. But you can visit soon.

I know. Kate sniffed. This separation thing is so new, I haven't learned the rules yet. Next week she will start at Beverly Hills High and wondered if I could send money.

Jim didn't ask for child support?

Not yet, he knows without a job I'm a veritable turnip, but in a new, impressive school, a young girl needs to feel like she fits in. Maybe she's already using more makeup in L.A. though she's awfully young, only thirteen, well, almost fourteen.

Out there, they learn everything young. Wow— Mary Beth began, then quickly changed the subject when Kate's brows shot up. What puzzles me is how those designers ask all that money for clothes. Those show biz stars are so skinny that one yard of fabric should cover what little they choose to conceal. And I heard on TV about a special credit card that young ones can't overdraw.

Kate sipped her tea. I'll call the bank tomorrow. But if I know my girl, she'll scope all the angles too.

***

Later as she unpacked in her room, Kate heard a male chuckle followed by Mary Beth's giggle. When she peered down the short hall to the living room, she caught a glimpse of a stubble chinned blond man a few inches taller than her own five eight. She glanced at her watch and hurried to finish dressing.

After Mary Beth introduced Kate to David Daley, he drove them to the Pagoda Restaurant, where a thin, Asian man seated them in a booth and handed each one a menu.

There's a take-out place near David's apartment so he knows all these combinations by heart. Mary Beth set her menu down.

The Pagoda is a big step up, Mary Beth. David's blue eyes studied the black characters. When I discover how good Lo Mein is supposed to taste, I'll probably lose my appetite for Noodles-To-Go.

David asked for suggestions and his silly Chinese translations of what they chose made them laugh. Kate knew he was trying to impress her when he continued to joke about Miami and made droll comments about his small studio. But like most buildings here, he added with a grin, mine is a few years younger than yours.

We set a low bar. Kate grinned back. Apparently, it's our job to make everyone else feel wealthy.

As she sat across from Mary Beth, Kate studied her sister's patrician nose, high cheekbones and round bosom. As they aged, they both looked more like their mother except for a bronze streak glinting through Beth's brown waves and the rusty curls Kate faced in her mirror every morning. That gene had definitely been their father's donation.

No secret that I'm out with sisters. David sounded as if he'd read her mind. Though Kate's taller and your eyes are different.

If you'd care to ogle mine closer, Sir, Mary Beth fluttered dark lashes. These magnificent orbs are hazel with captivating green highlights. As for Katie, I learned early her eyes glow like jade when something trivial, like forgetting to ask before borrowing her new sweater, becomes overblown.

Trivial? I saved for that cashmere.

Later, after David left the women at the apartment, Kate asked, How long have you two been a pair?

About six months. I met him at the car-rental agency where I work. Dating customers is a definite no-no, but some do sneak away and party with regulars. I never had before, because one of the older girls warned me about the hidden minefield of traveling salesmen on the loose.

Kate nodded. In my old office, our attorneys often forgot their wedding rings when they walked to Starbucks for a cup of coffee.

Well, there you go. Mary Beth shrugged. Finding a good guy is tricky. When David asked me to dinner I took it as just another proposition and told him flat out that I didn't date married men. But you met David. She rolled her eyes. "He just slapped his chest and growled ‘moi?' but did add,  'if you want to check, I'll give you my Mom's number. She tracks me like a TV detective.'"

Are you serious about him? Kate asked.

Sure, he's a darling man. I know he likes me and hints at more. He commutes from Dallas now, but hopes his pharmaceutical company will open an office here. She pointed at Kate. That's my latest... so how long can I count on you as my roommate?

Kate shook her head. I'm a bundle of chaos. I always thought that making a home for Cheryl was my bull's eye, but when my ex stole the darts, he shot those expectations down.

It might be too early to mention, but David meets a ton of sizzling-hot men in his business, the successful sort, too, Mary Beth said. Now he's met you, I bet he's already matchmaking.

Maybe, sometime. If you come along. Kate took a moment to phrase her thoughts. She didn't want to sound negative, but any emotional involvement even with a hot medicine man sounded more exhausting than fun.  

Unless the man at the airport pushed pills, legal ones, of course. And David actually knew him. But in a city as large as Miami a vision that improbable could only be a dream.

I need to cool down, not light a romantic bon fire. Kate waved a magazine like a fan. Don't you feel this heat?

Honey, here at Tawdry Tower, we take complaints only on Thursdays. Mary Beth narrowed her eyes. And your room has the quiet air conditioner. When you hear mine, you'll count your blessings.

Later, as Kate settled in a soft spot on the unfamiliar bed, she drew comfort from the rumbling fan across the hall. At least she wasn't alone. But how long could she count on that? She'd have to be blind to miss how much David Daley loved her sister. The couple might not realize it yet, but their happy honeymoon was ordained three months before Kate's arrival.

And her desire to have Cheryl eventually live with her had shrunk to a wistful fantasy. Even in Florida, where life was cheaper, Kate couldn't compete with her ex. Anyway, her daughter would probably make new school friends and want to stay in L.A..

As she punched the new pillow into shape, Kate tried to image what a spoiled, Beverly Hills teenager would think of a low-rent project like Townsend Tower, which her sister had so aptly dubbed ‘Tawdry.'

Kate buried her head under the pale pink sheet and tried to sleep.

Chapter Two

At the beach on Sunday, Kate held tight to Mary Beth's short board while David pulled her out beyond the first line of Atlantic waves.

After an exhilarating ride back to shore she graduated to larger breakers, where a group of teenagers surfing by reminded Kate of Cheryl's recent call. I'm taking surfing lessons in Santa Monica so I'd like to try your waves during the holidays. The water here is freezing in winter.

Caught by surprise, Kate spouted, Wow, that's a thought. We'll have to see. During the silence that followed her old hedge, she quickly invented a new plan. Although, December might be the best time for me to visit you. Always wanted to see the Hollywood Christmas Parade.

Just asking, Cheryl groaned. But if you want to win stuff, Daddy gets tickets to PIR. You know, 'The Price Is Right'? He got some for Cindy's sister.

All I want is to spend time with you. Do special things together like visit Disneyland. Kate gave a short laugh. No room for a new patio set or large appliances.

After they exchanged more of what Kate decided should better be positive, agreeable words, not even a hint of sermon, she ended the call and felt warm separation tears run down her cheeks.

Come on, wasn't this, your plan? she asked herself as she grabbed another tissue. Her long awaited visit with Mary Beth was not the only reason Kate flew straight to Miami. Since she'd allowed Cheryl to live with Jim it seemed only fair to let them settle in without her. After all, he paid all their daughter's expenses and was integrating her into his new family.

She'd transferred money to Cheryl's new account, but her parenting distance really hit home when she tried to offer a word of budgeting advice when Cheryl asked if she could spare a bit more. List your priorities like we used to do. Kate kept her tone light, but sensible. When you track your expenditures, you can control spending.

Gosh, Mom. TMI. It's not like I just toss money away. Cheryl's speech pattern is changing. This is not Ohio and you'll never understand one thing about L.A. if you never come out here.

Mary Beth offered little consolation when Kate shared a frustrated comment with her. Remote control works only in electronics. Cheryl's life is so different now your influence is bound to fade. You're here for now so focus on your own needs, she advised.

Kate frowned at the insensitivity of her sister's frank opinion, though it rang true, after she'd mulled it over.

Why not quit fretting about what others thought or said and find a temp job? Since she sent what she could to Cheryl and paid half the apartment expenses, Kate's money roll was slimming fast, and could use a substantial growth spurt.

She began to finger through an employment advertiser Mary Beth brought home, but still couldn't muster the desire to leave the building unless her sister drove or David picked them up. Instead she began to fill her time with the same daily TV programs she'd watched at home.

One afternoon during one of her favorite doctor shows, a small town girl like herself began relating symptoms that Kate identified in her own life. The Latin name escaped her and she hated to bring up a subject like mental psychosis with Mary Beth, but she began to realize that she also suffered from an irrational fear of venturing out alone in this vast city.

When Mary Beth suggested, I can get you a deal on a rental or you can drive me to work, Kate kept putting it off.

She finally hinted at her anxiety, and Mary Beth quoted from an historical novel she found in a rental van. Even worse than suffering other symptoms of courage paralysis is being mortified to inaction by a deep sense of cowardice.

Mary Beth frowned. That sounds a little too medieval, but after all you've been through, a short leap over this small mental hurdle should be a breeze once you get started.

When Mary Beth came home next evening, she handed Kate a folder. These are your first 'get out of jail free' passes to the outside world.

Kate peered inside, Kate found a city map the car rental companies handed out, an address to the on-line bus schedule, and a ‘help wanted' computer list complete with local addresses to jobs sites.

Spurred to action by this obvious shove, Kate spread the map across the blue table and tried to make sense of the numerous, crisscrossed, red and black lines.

Miami's a nightmare compared to Ohio, she muttered. In my hometown you could master the four main arteries in less than an hour. Kate took a sip of tea, pushed the map aside and reached for her computer that lay open to the complicated jobs page.

Kate had worked for a partner in a thriving law firm until the upheaval of her divorce made her restless. She'd been grateful for the last straw that sent her packing. Her most recent boss refused to believe the resume phrase ‘secretarial only' meant him, and had made unwelcomed sexist remarks when he'd called her into to his office on the pretext of a document change.

She'd walked in expecting a session on wording, but was shocked into disbelief when he closed the door, cupped his hand over her breast and whispered what else he'd been waiting to do since he'd hired her.

It almost surprised her more than him when basic instinct took over and she stepped back to slap his face.

After that less than dainty response she didn't wait for his inevitable pink slip. She cleaned out her desk and with dignity intact, strode out of the haughty nest of legal eagles and into a female-operated temp service, which better suited her gypsy mood.

Now, reviewing ads for temporary employment, Kate decided that short jobs might also help her learn the city and she could use the GPS on her phone. She became so absorbed that she almost missed a light tapping on the front door. When she peeked out into the hall, a short Latina wearing a red and green sling over her shoulder said, "Hi, Hola, I'm Alma from next door. Are you Mary Beth's sister?"

Yes, I'm Kate. She pulled off the chain and gestured toward the denim couch.

The young woman sat down, the striped shawl slipped away and Kate stared into the bright eyes of a husky baby boy.

Kate smiled. How old?

Just nine months. Alma positioned the small boy against her shoulder.

He's so sweet. Kate patted the small hand. Can I make tea or get you a cold soda?

No, gracias, I better feed Ronny soon and put him down, but Mary Beth said you were looking for work. As I rode by this morning, I saw a help-wanted sign in the window of a travel shop that is right on our bus route.

Kate brought her new map to the rattan chest.

Here. Alma freed an arm to point. The bus goes down Claude Pepper Street and turns on Reagan. Half a dozen blocks farther, it stops in front of a strip mall. Do you speak Spanish?

Not fluently. Kate frowned. I took it in school, but...

The area borders Little Havana. I don't know if you need Spanish, but thought of you when I read the sign. Alma untangled tiny fingers from her thick black braid and stood. Look for blue awnings along the front, she added as Kate opened the front door.

So good of you to think of me. Kate smiled and reached out to the baby in the open reboza. When he grabbed her finger and pulled it toward his mouth, she felt a quick stab. His lopsided, wet grin flashed a memory of Kate's own rusty-haired baby girl at the same age.

Heaving a sigh, she closed the door and glanced toward her computer. She could re-read law office ads she'd put in a folder, but since her friendly neighbor made a special effort and the shop she mentioned seemed easy to find, the travel agency might be the best place to start.

After picking through her scant wardrobe, Kate chose a light green linen blouse and almost pressed the matching skirt as she might in her conservative hometown for an interview.

Everyone in Miami seems laid back. Wear the jeans skirt I traveled in.

As she prepared, she slipped on panty hose to protect her dressier pumps and the long-sleeved blouse to add a professional air.

By the time she'd walked outside and along a well-worn dirt path to where someone had pulled sagging pieces of chain link fence apart and formed a jagged hole to squeeze through, several runs crawled along her leg. The steamy humidity made her slip a finger beneath her collar to allow a cooling breeze to flow in.

At the bus stop on a busy street, she glanced around. Same as in the mall, the female garb was mostly shorts and tees. The shorts a length Kate wouldn't even wear to her mailbox.

Okay, she muttered. Pitch sleeves and stupid panty hose. Revealing shorts may come later, but for today— She pulled herself onto the long rumbling vehicle. —I'm Katherine Hepburn boarding the African Queen or Melissa McCarthy running from the cops in her latest retro disguise.

When faded blue awnings came into sight, Kate got off in front of a Cuban Grocery and strolled past a beauty salon to Holiday Travel. The Help-Wanted sign was propped between colorful posters of fierce animals roaming vine tangled jungles and gigantic gothic cathedrals in exotic foreign ports. Bilingual Preferred was inked across the bottom.

With no experience and no clients, I have three strikes before I even step into the batter's box.

Relax. Count this interview as practice.

She stepped into the dark