Aced.: The Sequel to Crackerjack!

By Shea Rose

SWITCH ON YOUR INNER LIGHT; BRING FORTH YOUR GIFTS.

Alonzo Prier, Esquire, leaves his prominent New Jersey Assistant Attorney General job and heads to Washington, D.C. Tracked down by the well-established law firm with the independent federal consulting contract, he’s the best for the business…not just theirs, but the business about the country. Unsavory times! Medicare and Medicaid officials struggling with those social programs’ challenges. Managed Care unhinged by way of HMOs delivering the health and wellness goods, but not really. It was January 2000. Health insurance considerations throughout the land at fever pitch. Public and private.

Man up for the challenge…charismatic, highly intelligent, vast healthcare industry knowledge. But not everybody wanted that. Some wanted him out; others wanted him in bed with them. Specifically, the women working Washington. He brings sexy back, while ushering intellect and integrity in. And he’s just so damn handsome. Real hot commodity!

Those gunning for him; those gaming for him. Didn’t matter. He wouldn’t be thrown off course. The man had a mission.

And his wife? Somewhat like…a hundred gradations of pink, maybe? She’d come upon a way to intensify the existing intensity between them. Witty, adventurous, creative, and simply gorgeous. She was at the top of her game, too.

With so many challenges, how does this all pan out? How did he weave through waves of deception? What kept him grounded through it all? His wife helped. With that ‘feminine wiles’ thing, she took care of business. It’s all made crystal clear by the things people do… and don’t.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Sep 14, 2022
• ISBN: 9781665570152

Shea Rose

The author graduated from Seton Hall University, South Orange, N.J. Sha Rose is the conceptual woman for EVERY WOMAN who has arisen to her authentic self and living her dream. Rose’s stories share how enlightenment comes amidst life’s doldrums and underpinnings, and how things all come together for the good. The only real challenge is in finding the silver lining in the cloud. Rise and shine is always the message.

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© 2022 Shēa Rose. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or

transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse  11/17/2022

ISBN: 978-1-6655-7016-9 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-6655-7014-5 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-6655-7015-2 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022916459

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in

this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views

expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the

views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

I   What’s Up?

II   Partners

III   Uh-OH!

IV   Back to Business, as Unusual

V   Those Warm & Fuzzies

VI   Time & Truth March Forward

VII   Say What?!

VIII   Time Nor Tide Wait

IX   Favors with A Twist

X   May Flowers

XI   No She Didn’t!

XII   Gotta Keep The Faith

XIII   Let it All Unfold

XIV   What is Happening?

XV   Rocked It

Afterword

I

What’s Up?

"T ed! Man! Damn !"

"Azo! Happy New Year! How’re things, buddy? Been gone since November; it’s January third. Thought you’d need some time to revamp but didn’t think you’d take this long! Bittersweet. Ted, glad to hear from Alonzo, ribbing him about not having reached out sooner after relocating to Washington D.C. Ted harbored a fondness for the nickname Azo he’d bestowed upon Alonzo for seemingly always being in the zone" of things.

Ted, just more involved than I’d imagined. Finding and closing on a house and getting our former one sold; old- school, new-school stuff for Erik; registering cars; still finalizing New Jersey AG documents; taking the kids sightseeing; the holidays; and the list goes on. None of that was a cakewalk. First workday here and couldn’t let another day go without calling. Finished up with HR and called you. What’s up? How’s the family? How’re asbestos and mercury doing? Alonzo, cheery but feeling remorseful; silently lamenting over not having celebrated his new digs with his long-standing best friend.

No worries, Azo. All’s the same here. Still dreadful. But hope you’re enjoying your greener pastures. Happy for ya, man! Even if I’m just a distant memory, joked Ted.

Savoring the moment, Alonzo replied, No way, Ted. And how could I ever forget that remember and forget logic of yours? What a classic!

"Yeah, that’s right! Did you take Lindy up on her special offer? That was a classic!"

Alonzo, in front of his picturesque twelfth-floor office window, looked out over the aesthetically appealing architecture. Smiling while reminiscing said, Quite special. But after careful consideration and with an abundance of caution, I decided to forego that piece.

Ted replied, Talking like a Washington politician already. And you’re a better man than I. From what you said about Lindy, I would’ve tapped that. And forgot about it, of course. He continued, So, Azo, just how are Washington’s working women? Ted asked most inquisitively.

Momentarily pondering the thought, Alonzo replied, Well, of the few I’ve met, they’re attractive, educated, and possibly politically motivated. That’s about it.

Ted’s interpretation, So not really fuckable unless you’ve got a political agenda they can attach to and get paid. Prefer paid to laid?

In jest, Alonzo replied, I wouldn’t know, Ted. But I’d guess they’re different from Jersey women. Different environment; different ambitions.

Well, keep your eye on ’em. Know what I mean? Ted liked frolicking with Alonzo knowing he didn’t buy in to his casual encounter’s perspective. Changing the topic, he asked, What about the perks?

"Ahh … sweet signing bonus, designated parking spot, ten paid holidays, six weeks paid vacation, and personal spankin’ brand new Nokia 3210 cell phone. Talking to you on it now."

A soft knock intruded. He quickly turned towards his office door. The visual was stunning. He subconsciously sensed her …. then spoke. Hel-lo, Alonzo said, smiling while thinking, ‘Can’t be.’

Hel-lo, she mimicked, and smiled. She continued, Alonzo Prier, your Executive Assistant, Sheri Watson. Have time now to go over a few things?

I do. Come in. Just finishing this call and I’m ready. He bid Ted adieu, regained his composure, and turned his full attention to Sheri Watson.

Sheri, a voluptuous attractive Black woman, regarded as the firm’s top Executive Assistant was immediately assigned to Alonzo when they knew he’d accepted their offer. Sheri had worked ten years for Branston & Emers, versed in the dynamics of the firm, in her early forties, articulate and presumed capable of keeping Alonzo’s pace based on what had been circulated about the awesome Alonzo Prier, Esquire.

Upon sight, it occurred to Alonzo that something would need confronting. But he stifled the thought. Sheri, a tad younger than he, exhibited the same sense of self. Alonzo, surmising she could be a great Executive Assistant and possibly more asked, Still got that great sense of humor?

Sheri whimsically replied, "I’d need it considering this! Bet the Universe had something to do with this bizarre happenstance. Ya think?"

Don’t know what to think about this, Sheri, Alonzo replied, still graciously smiling.

Seemingly unphased and returning to what she was there for, Sheri continued, Every morning at 9:45 I’ll brief you on the day’s agenda for you and the firm. You’ll get your essential briefings from our Managing Partner. MP for short. I give the time and whereabouts for what you’ll be involved with during the day, and make sure your calendar is updated; MP gives the explicit detail, especially when there’re significant departures from your scheduled affairs. Would you like me here earlier than 9:45?

No, he politely replied. Alonzo remained silent like a schoolboy on his first school day. But he’d already started casually and cautiously assessing and scoping everything and everyone.

Sheri continued, You can watch the news feed anytime from your personal viewing system here, in the cabinet. You can watch all recorded congressional hearings, senate proceedings, anything government —all state-of-the-art. There’s a bar set-up in the lower half of the cabinet stocked with the finest spirits on earth, club soda, and bottles of water. And MP does the re-stocking. Sheri was now walking around his office showing off its elaborate décor as if she was Vanna White. Momentarily stopping to look at him up-close, he inhaled her fragrance... one of the sexiest-smelling provocative scents ever. Let me know if I can be of any further assistance today. I’m guessing you’re all done with Human Resources. HR typically takes a while, but they fast-tracked you. And at 10 o’clock tomorrow, you’ll meet your lead paralegal and the rest of your research team. Sheri flashed the prettiest smile. Oh, she continued, Mr. Emers will be meeting with you today at one o’clock sharp. Your office.

Throughout his extensive office tour, she was confident and correct. And pretty.

Throughout his extensive office tour, he was awed and amped. And handsome.

Walking with her to the doorway, he said, I hope we can make a good team.

"I know we can make a good team. Once again," she confidently replied.

About fifteen minutes before noon, Alonzo headed out. Sheri wasn’t at her desk when he left, so he just moved on. On his way, he’d familiarize himself more with the firm’s layout and décor, grab a sandwich from one of the building’s various and sundry eateries, and head out for a brief walk around town. He needed that walk. What just happened in his plush regal office… rocked…his…world!

Viewing the scenery of the most vibrantly sculpted buildings, monuments, people, Alonzo took in the essence of Washington, D.C. by way of his immediate locale. Walking briskly, he mindfully replayed his office encounter with Sheri. Having previously entered his contacts and cell in hand, he called Ted. He’d decidedly not called Ted’s private line desiring to say hello to Gina.

Commissioner Garretson’s office. Amy speaking. How may I help you?

Hello, Amy? Hi, uh, is he available? This is Alonzo Prier. Thrown by the new voice he wondered about Gina.

Amy transferred the call to Ted. Azo, what’s up? We just hung up!

Ted. Man. Damn! You won’t believe this! Sheri Watson is my Executive Assistant. Azo sounded harried, like he’d given much thought to a dish that hadn’t marinated well.

Whoa! The Sheri Watson you screwed around with at Duke? That Sheri Watson? Your Duke nights’ bosom buddy? How the hell is Sheri Watson your Executive Assistant?! Ted too, now stunned.

Unable to answer, Alonzo shifted topics, Um, I suppose Gina’s had her baby? New voice on the line. Amy? His thoughts momentarily shifted to Gina; somewhat comforting.

Ted, rushed through a succinct update. "That was inevitable. Yes, a baby girl; named her Brianna. Seven pounds exactly at birth. Gina’s coming back in June. I’m glad. Now let’s get back to what you called for…Sheri Watson, college nights rock and roll. Man, that’s deep!"

Uncanny is what that is! Been twenty-five years since I last saw Sheri; a quarter century ago. I left Duke right after graduation and that was it. He momentarily stopped talking as he thought back. He continued, She’s still pretty but more mature, obviously. You know she was a Poli Sci major and switched to Social Studies. Always had an interest in Humanities but never homed in with anything. She liked dancing… took ballet and modern dance classes in high school. And now she’s my Executive Assistant at Branston & Emers law firm. Go figure.

Yeah, that’s right. Dance classes made those beautiful legs, Ted recalled.

Alonzo replied, Yeah, and they’re the same.

Knew you’d check those out, Ted laughingly replied. Well, keep me posted, Azo. I’m curious as to how this plays out. Time will tell. Sheri Watson, your Duke-days damsel.

Continuing along his walk back to the building, Alonzo said, You’re slippin’, Ted. You’re not giving me your expert advice like— remember and forget?

Nope, Ted replied, "that advice was for prospecting with new buildings. That’s an old building you already know. I’d say you probably know if it’s a relic or a booby trap."

Yeah, guess so, Alonzo grimaced. But it would have been worse if it was Sybil Wylde!

You’re right! That’s the gorgeous snazzy blonde you were handling betwixt and between Sheri. Ted remembered Sheri and Sybil. He’d come down from Swarthmore College in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania to visit Alonzo at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. And vice versa. They enjoyed sparring over each other’s college basketball and lacrosse teams’ games even though neither of them were on either. It was on those occasions that Ted met the girls hanging around Alonzo and Alonzo met the girls hanging around Ted. And as guys do, they’d later compare notes.

Laughing himself, Alonzo replied, "Sybil lived up to her surname, for sure! Memory like an elephant, Ted. But I was with Sybil before Sheri. Sybil and I had broken things off a bit, but I got back with her. Just forgot to tell Sheri. That was my version of remember and forget, Ted. Alonzo now amused by his own shenanigans back in the day, continued, Well, I’m back at the office now. Gotta meeting in fifteen. And next time you two speak, give Gina my congrats on her baby."

"Will do, Azo. Call back soon with an update. Sheri Watson from Duke U days. That’s so deep! Take care, man." Ted hung up laughing.

II

Partners

S heri was back at her desk when Alonzo returned. Busy making folders for the pile of documents Gilbert Emers sent for Alonzo’s review, she looked up and asked, Back from lunch?

Yep, didn’t eat much but got a little local sightseeing in. Great buildings and architecture here. I really like D.C. And before I get too swamped, we’ll catch up. Do lunch. He somewhat smiled feeling uncharacteristically uncomfortable but downplayed it.

Sheri continued, I’d like that. Would love to catch up. And you only have a few minutes before Mr. Emers arrives. Here’re the documents for your discussion. She handed over twelve jam-packed files from the Department of Health & Human Services, Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) addressed to Mr. Gilbert Emers, Esquire, Branston & Emers, LLC.

Alonzo took the folders and headed to his office. As he sat studiously going through them, a brisk knock on his half-open door interrupted. Alonzo Prier, is this a good time? Gilbert Emers, one of the firm’s two founding partners there to give Alonzo the particulars of his new job.

Now is as good a time as any, Mr. Emers. Come in.

Mr. Emers wasted no time presenting the facts. He addressed eight major problems with the U.S. healthcare system facing HCFA, in addition to its impending name change. Yes, Alonzo, we’ve been commissioned to study preventable medical errors; poor amenable mortality rates; lack of transparency; difficulty finding good doctors; high cost of care; lack of insurance coverage; nursing and physician shortages; and differing perspectives on solving these problems. Those problems have the Nation’s healthcare delivery system in shambles. And HCFA, soon to be known as CMS—next year around June or July— becomes the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Name change, and hopefully new postulations. We access their data to analyze for significant findings and we, or now you, get to turn all that information into where the country should conceivably be headed. I know you’re the man best suited for this think-tank job, Alonzo. Your New Jersey experiences well prepared you for this massive challenge; given you a micro view that can be expanded to the macro. Smiling an exhibiting a sense of assurance in Alonzo’s capabilities, Mr. Emers continued, And call me Gilbert. I’m not big on formalities here at the ranch.

Alonzo smiling in return replied, I also like the less formal approach, Gilbert. And yes, seven of those eight topics I’d dealt with in my former job. And as Counsel to the State’s Health Department, we co-regulated and monitored the hospitals. So yes, familiar territory. Alonzo momentarily paused, recalling New Jersey’s similar issues. "It’s ironic, Gilbert, that with all the country’s issues, New Jersey hospitals formed a task force to study the feasibility of rate deregulation. Last year, the U.S. ranked last in quality measures that would potentially curb premature deaths all preventable with timely and effective quality of care. Just more fodder for the fire with New Jersey hospitals having voted deregulation, translating into a freely competitive market. They’ve yet to see the full negative impact of competition amongst hospitals. And with managed care companies impacting profitability of hospitals and doctors, quality of care concerns escalate even more. Massive challenges."

Well, I can say that the incumbent political party will keep the managed care thing going and who knows what will happen next year with a new Administration. But those HMOs with that managed care stuff are likely here to stay irrespective of who’s in the White House. Hopefully, we can zone in on the dynamics that make this mainstream approach viable.

Gilbert and Alonzo talked shop about forty minutes more before Gilbert changed the subject. You know, Alonzo, I need you to handle one other matter for me. It’s personal. But it’s also business and I’m putting it on your plate.

Alonzo sat, intently waiting as Gilbert seemed somewhat tentative in what he was about to say.

Gilbert continued, You’ll be getting your lead, well-seasoned paralegal for your projects, in addition to three other paralegals. Two of the three are level three, but Preston Marcs has been here almost four years and still at the entry level paralegal slot and salary. Our average annual paralegal salary is about $82 grand. This guy is still around $60 grand. Something’s wrong and worse yet, he’s engaged to my youngest daughter, Amanda. Looking perplexed, Gilbert continued. Amanda’s a good girl; great values and morals; graduated from New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology last year, passionate about fashion and design. But she’s hooked up with that loser. And I’m heartbroken.

How’d they meet? asked Alonzo.

My doings! I had our annual firm cookout at my home three years ago. We had less employees then. He came and the rest is history. Amanda met Preston. They were only talking and next thing I knew they were dating. And recently, he gave her an engagement ring! Men nowadays don’t ask the parents for their daughter’s hand in marriage? I’m fuckin’ horrified! And my wife, Marissa, doesn’t know what to think.

Alonzo suppressed laughter but couldn’t help chuckling at the characterization. Gilbert looked panicked by the thought of his youngest daughter marrying a long-term entry-level paralegal who seemingly had no interest in his future prosperity. Was he planning to live off daddy’s legal-eagle fortune? Gilbert Emers, possibly petrified by the possibility!

I see, Alonzo courteously replied. So, what specifically are you looking for from me?

Check him out. Thoroughly. If he’s got something to offer and just not challenged in the right way, mentor him. Get him on track. If he’s a dud, like I think he is, fire him! Gilbert firmly said.

Reassuringly Alonzo replied, Sheri gave me the most recent performance evaluations for my team. I’ve yet to review them. My style is to meet my direct reports before reading anyone’s assessment of them. People can rise to the occasion when they feel motivated. Sometimes motivation comes externally when the job’s made interesting.

I respect that, Alonzo. But I just have a feeling about this guy that there’s something amiss. I could be wrong. But my other concern is that he won’t shit or get off the pot!

Now totally thrown, Alonzo asked hesitantly, Pardon?

"Yeah, Amanda gets pissed whenever we ask how things are going; what’s the date? Truthfully, I hope there is no wedding date! I’m sick of the whole thing with those two. I want it over and done! And by the way, I’ve approved your signing bonus…uh, $25 grand. That brings you easily to the quarter-million mark with us and we’re expecting great things from you, Alonzo. And I’m expecting a turned around or turned-out Preston Marcs."

And Gilbert, I appreciate your confidence in me. I’m here to do my best in all regards. If any of my direct reports are not up to par, they’ll be groomed. They’ll either shape up or ship out. That’s always been my motto with so much at stake. But I do prefer giving people a chance. If not possible for Preston Marcs, you’ll know. And thank you for the signing bonus. Much appreciated.

All music to my ears, Alonzo. Great to have you aboard. And I’m sure you’ll be quite pleased with Sheri Watson. Doesn’t get any better than that one!

Cautiously optimistic but still smiling, Alonzo replied, Yeah. We’ll see.

Alonzo returned to reviewing the HCFA documents. After about an hour, Sheri knocked. Opening his door slightly and peeking in, she asked, "Would you like anything? Coffee, tea, or me? Me as in anything you’d like to discuss about us working together?"

Come in, Sheri. Alonzo courteously replied.

Sure, she said, closed the door behind her and sat in one of the chairs facing his massive mahogany desk.

He didn’t join her in the matching chair. Continuing from behind his desk, carefully searching for the right words, he spoke. Hard to believe that after twenty-five years, we’d show up in the same workplace. And you’re my Executive Assistant. I wouldn’t bet on it, but I’d say that’s extremely rare.

She succinctly replied, "I wouldn’t bet on it either. But maybe we’re here because you owe me an explanation. Like why you didn’t bother to keep in touch. You left Duke for law school and all your plans. I stayed in hopes of us planning our future together, even with the challenges. She momentarily paused, took a deep breath, and continued. A few years after I graduated, I took some paralegal courses. That’s how I got my job here. So, maybe our destiny to finish what was left unfinished led us both here." Sheri started revealing long-standing pent-up desire.

Alonzo, looking directly at her said, "Sheri, we were only together for a year and our challenges would have been huge. We joked about how an inter-racial relationship would go over with our families. Remember our Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner conversation? And you were unsure about what you wanted in life. And I wasn’t exclusive…. wasn’t commitment focused. You shared my heart with my passion for law school…"

"And Sybil Wylde! Sheri abruptly interjected. Having found out you were sleeping with that Bitch, I tried to ignore it because I’d fallen in love with you. You must’ve known, Alonzo."

Known what? I was 21; you were 20, Sheri. And looking for answers from a quarter-century ago doesn’t make sense. I’m 45; you’re 44, now. My best guess is that life happened as it was supposed to. So, let’s cut to the chase. Can we have a productive and professional work relationship? I’m fine with it if you’re okay. Alonzo wasn’t smiling but he was graciously candid.

Sheri looked puzzled. The Alonzo she remembered from the past was gone. This guy was polished, sporting a bodacious handsome face. He looked unapologetic. His fun-loving side not readily apparent. He presented with a calm demeanor exuding no emotion. He was different from the whiz-kid transformer to party-hardy and sex-you-down Alonzo from mega years past. What was worse, he didn’t seem to have any detectable desire left for her. Impassioned by his approach and in search of an answer, she curiously asked, You deny what we had?

"We had sex, Sheri. I’m not denying that. It just didn’t have the same meaning for me as… maybe… it