The Candy Cane Contract

By Markee Anderson

Victoria Barker has no idea that she'd said anything wrong about her dogs at the coffee shop until she's arrested for child abuse.

Meet the culprit who turned her in—Dr. Connor Kelley, child psychiatrist. Connor's about to learn his fate, thanks to his boss.

Connor is forced to train Victoria's two 'children' dogs for two weeks, or he'll be sued and unemployed for Christmas. Can he handle Victoria and her demonic animals for that long or will he opt to risk his job and a lawsuit?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Markee Anderson
• Release date: Nov 21, 2022
• ISBN: 9781938350597

Markee Anderson

Writing is escapism, at its finest, for Markee. With three grown children (a son and two daughters) and their daily issues, she escapes by writing about other people's lives. It's like playing with dolls all over again--giving them a life, problems, a past...and it all happens in her head, keeping her entertained.See more at MarkeeAnderson.com. See all of her books (and all her pen names) at SweetTaleBooks.com.

Book preview

Chapter 1

"Now you kids be good while I'm gone. Victoria Barker pulled on her coat, ready to meet her sister-in-law for coffee. I'm just going to visit your auntie Jane, to tell her what wonderful animals you are."

She stared down at her two dogs. Sandy was a five-year-old yellow golden retriever and Max was a four-month-old standard Boston terrier. I just hope and pray you don't wreck my house. She talked to Sandy, but pointed at Max. Make sure he stays in line.

Sandy seemed to understand her, but Vicki contemplated putting Max in his cage. She hated doing it because an hour penned up like that was murder to a dog with that much energy. But she had to protect her house, Sandy, and even Max from himself. So, she lifted him and pushed him into what she liked to call the wire prison, even though the thing was huge. He whined, but she just sighed as she shut the gated door. I know, buddy. I know. I won't be long. Promise. She grabbed her purse and headed toward the front door. Be good kids. And off she went to visit her sister-in-law for a great gossip session about the family.

~~~~~

Chapter 2

"I told Max to stop it, or I'd smack his nose. He backed down, but I know it's just a matter of time until he bites Sandy again. The woman sighed. Kids. What can you do with them? I don't think the pound would even take these children. I have to figure out what to do with them, if I ever want to entertain family. They're definitely not invited."

Dr. Connor Kelley sat behind two women at a coffee shop in downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado, appalled at what he heard. He shouldn't have been eavesdropping, but he couldn't stop himself. The woman wanted to put her kids in the pound? What kind of person did that?

Maybe you should get married, the other woman said. She was older, probably pushing 40, with darker hair. The blonde with the kids, was in her late 20s or early 30s. Connor listened as much as he could, in case he had to turn the blonde in for child abuse. He'd never make that mistake again. Not turning Bambi in to the authorities before he moved to Colorado almost cost her two children their lives.

No, the blonde said. Ever since I was a cop, I promised myself I'd never tie myself down to any man. I learned more than any woman should ever know about men. She chuckled. Although there was that guy in Overland Park that was sweet on me. It was just a shame…

The other woman tsked. You're done with that town.

The blonde sighed. My parents are still there.

Yeah, and so is Deirdre. She could've buried you.

She would've, too. What a brat. To think we grew up together and were even neighbors. For her to damage my reputation like that just made me sick.

Connor wondered what Deirdre had done. Maybe it had something to do with her kids without a father. He'd based his entire career as a child and adolescent psychiatrist on the notion that kids needed a male role model in their lives. This lady needed help. But first, he had to make sure her children were safe.

What do I do with the kids? the blonde asked.

Where are they right now? the older woman said.

Home alone. Sandy's five and Max is three months. That's old enough to be left alone. Granted, Max is in a cage, so he won't get hurt. I don't trust that little guy. I threw a pillow at him the other night and he about bit me, trying to eat the pillow. I finally laid it over his head, and he went ballistic. Needless to say, the pillow is gone.

The hair on the back of Connor's neck stood straight up, he was that angry. She'd thrown things at an infant and tried to smother it? The kid was only three months old. What kind of mother would let a young child babysit a baby?

He stood up and walked out the door while yanking his cell phone out of his pocket. With one quick motion, he dialed 9-1-1.

Emergency, he heard. It was a woman. Good. She might be more sympathetic to his cause, since he didn't even know the blonde woman's name.

My name is Dr. Connor Kelley. I'm a child and adolescent psychiatrist in the city and just overheard a very disturbing conversation at a coffee shop. He glanced back inside the shop. The two women were collecting their things. I think two children are being abused and I want the cops to investigate.

Where are the children?

He backed away so no one could hear him. I'm not sure. I'll follow the woman and find out.

No. We don't need any vigilantes. Which coffee shop is it?

Le Bean.

She clicked a few buttons, audible over the phone. We have two cops heading there right now.

Tell them to hurry. The woman's blonde and just about ready to leave with her older friend. I do know she grew up in Overland Park, wherever that is.

It's in Kansas, right outside Kansas City. You said she's blonde?

He looked back into the store. Blonde, very pretty, and put together. She said she was a cop at one point in her life. She's wearing a light blue blouse, black pants, and a gray coat. Hurry. She has a five-year-old and three-month-old. The older child is babysitting the younger one right now. She has the three-month-old in a cage. He sighed. She said she put a pillow over the three-month-old's head.

He heard the woman talking to someone else but couldn't make it out.

We'll take care of it, the woman finally said, over the phone. Two cops are pulling in right now. Are you inside the shop?

No. I'm outside. A police car pulled into the lot, and two cops got out. Connor waved to them and one of them nodded. They're heading my way right now.

I told them exactly what you told me, the woman said. Just point her out and she won't know what you're talking about.

Thank you. You may have saved two young children.

You, too. They're going to follow the woman home so they can save the two children right away.

Thanks.

The blonde woman and her friend walked out of the shop and passed Connor. I'm heading home to see the kids, the blonde said to the older woman. Maybe they've resolved their differences. If not, I'm throwing them out of the house until they do.

Connor was horrified. The cops walked toward him, and he just pointed at the woman. The cops nodded and turned, heading back to their car behind the two women. Connor scrambled to his car, ready to follow the cops to the woman's house. He wanted to redeem himself from the last time he'd let a woman go free from hurting her children. This time, he'd make sure the kids were safe.

~~~~~

Chapter 3

Victoria Barker pulled into the driveway in front of the garage, on the left side of the house. She watched the cop's car behind her, which had followed her the whole way from the coffee shop. If they gave her a tough time, she'd just have her two dogs take them on. The thought made her laugh. Her dogs weren't watchdogs at all.

Once Vicki parked her car, the cops pulled up right behind her. Behind them was an expensive Mercedes. She couldn't see the driver, but whatever was going on, it was probably a mistake.

Just as she got out of the car, two local television vans parked on the street. Maybe she'd won the lottery or something.

The cops got out of the car and headed for her. Their hands were on their guns. She hoped they weren't going to ask her a professional question. She hadn't done her cop job for two years, but if they needed her help in taking someone in who was threatening, she could certainly help.

Hello, gentlemen, she said. Do you need something?

Yes, ma'am, the younger man said. We have a complaint and need you to answer a few questions.

A complaint. She crossed her arms. This didn't have anything to do with her past job. Is this from one of my clients?

Clients? the younger cop said. What sort of clients do you have?

I'm a party caterer. I run a party catering business. It's registered with the city, and I make sure it's up to code and everything. She pointed to the large sign nailed to the addition on the other side of the home, advertising 'Barker's Party Catering.'

No. The guy's lips thinned. This is about your children.

Children? I don't have any children. I'm single. She pointed toward her house. Do you hear any children inside my home?

No, ma'am, he said. But we had a complaint—

From me. A good-looking man stepped closer. He had brown hair and very light blue eyes. If his expression wasn't so grim looking, she'd have asked him if he was taken. However, he did seem very professional.

Mr. Professional continued. I heard you left your young children at home. I was sitting behind you in the coffee shop.

The news reporters and cameramen stepped closer, the cameras taping a live feed.

She couldn't believe it, staring at Mr. Professional. You were eavesdropping?

Yes. I'm a child and adolescent psychiatrist and need to stop all abuse like you're doing to your children. He seemed so determined. Who made him judge and jury?

She had to explain but was more than angry. I don't have any children. I don't know what you're talking about. I was just talking to my sister-in-law, Jane, at Le Bean. It's none of your business what we were talking about.

We can clear this up if you just let us go into your home, the younger cop said. We just want to make sure you don't have any children alone inside.

I don't have any children. She'd be too embarrassed to have anyone go inside, considering what the dogs had done to her furniture and carpet. You don't have my permission to go inside, either. She pointed toward the house. "You need probable cause, and you don't have it. This man… She waved her hand down over him in a quick motion. …is making up lies. I don't have any children. I don't need anyone hurting my home or my business. I have clients waiting for me, downtown, and their food doesn't need to be touched or hurt for their party. You can't contaminate the food for that business."

The older cop reached out and grabbed her arm, slammed her up against her car, and pulled her hands behind her. You're under arrest for not cooperating and for making a violent gesture. He slapped two handcuffs on her wrists. You have the right to remain silent… He continued to talk.

Violent gesture? I was using my hand to show you my home and indicate a lunatic making accusations against me. I'm a law-abiding citizen.

Your motions looked violent to me, the cop said, and finished reading the Miranda rights to her. He pulled her away from her car and inched her toward the police car.

Unbelievable. Vicki stared at the psycho guy from the Mercedes. You turned me in? Why would you even get involved?

It's my job. He moved closer, anger filling his face. I want to go inside and rescue your children.

She rolled her eyes. "I don't have any children. But be careful of my dogs, if you do go inside."

None of them seemed to care about the dogs. She just hoped they didn't her hurt babies.

The cop pulled her up to the cop's car, opened the door, and shoved her inside. Frank, go search her house. Get those kids out and I'll call social services.

Vicki couldn't believe this. She was so stunned; she didn't know what to do. With her awards for being a good cop, she couldn't even imagine why they'd put her in cuffs. As soon as she could, she was calling her brother, Dan, the lawyer, who lived in Denver. That's why she'd moved to Colorado in the first place, to babysit for Dan and Jane, even though they were about an hour north of her home.

The trip to the jail wasn't fun because the cops didn't speak to her at all. But they did stare at her, making her a bit self-conscious. Once at the jail, she was processed and thrown into a cell.

Vicki sat in jail for two hours. After the first hour, she was allowed to call Dan for her phone call. Three other women sat in the holding cell with her, but she ignored them. They'd tried to start a conversation, but Vicki just stared them down. She knew how to handle criminals and these women were definitely criminals. She was taking notes for the lawsuit she planned to discuss with Dan. Whoever that accuser was, he was going to pay. First, she wanted to sue him for eavesdropping. That wasn't against the law, but she wanted Dan to figure out a more legal way to state it. She had a few ideas but didn't know if they'd stand up in court. Then came endangering her pets, slander, and ruining her business. She didn't know what sort of punishment would be appropriate for such an evil person. She wanted the man to understand the implications of what he'd done. He seemed rich, so she didn't just want him to just write a check and forget about his actions. No, she wanted him to learn a lesson. Maybe Dan could help her think up a suitable punishment.

Victoria Barker, you're free to go, the guard said, approaching the cell door. Your lawyer is here.

Good. She stood up and straightened out her clothes. At least they hadn't made her change into a jumpsuit yet, since the one female guard wasn't available.

The guard opened the door and Vicki walked out. She gathered her things, checked out, and headed for the outer door. As soon as she opened it, she saw Dan waiting for her.

Thank you. She gave him a hug. I'm late for a client meeting.

Yep. I'll help you. He directed her to his car, where she got inside. After he ran to his side, he turned the ignition, backed out, and headed toward her home.

What happened? she asked.

Well… He rubbed his neck and sighed. They broke into your house but found no children. Your dogs were having a ball, ripping everything to shreds.

What? Max was in the cage. Was he out?

Dan nodded. Your house is a mess, and the front door is broken, thanks to the cops. I have a call out to get it fixed. I also got the name of the good Samaritan. I'm filing a suit against him this afternoon.

Just give me your bill and the bill for the door. Mr. Professional, also known as 'the psycho guy,' had ruined her life. Do you happen to know if the dogs got into the business side of the home?

Dan shook his head. The door was locked. They didn't hurt any of the food, and the inspectors said it's the cleanest business they've ever seen. Your employees weren't there.

They were probably setting up for the job. As soon as his comment processed in her brain, her heart stopped and her mouth gaped open. Did you say inspectors?

He sighed. They made a surprise inspection after the cops called them about the dogs. They saw your business sign outside the other part of your home and called the inspectors after seeing what the dogs had done to your house. He paused. Vicki, I don't want to tell you what to do, but you really need to get your dogs out of there. It's not good for business.

No. They're my replacement for a real family.

Jane and I can be your real family, along with Jennifer and Ralph. Those were their young children.

She waved him off. That's not the same and you know it. She pulled her checkbook out of her purse. You never told me. How much do I owe you?

He grinned. Nothing. We're going to make Dr. Connor Kelley pay through the nose. He'll pay my fee, just in time for Christmas, I hope.

Dan was something else. That's the good-looking psycho doctor's name, right? she asked. She winced, realizing what she'd just said.

Dan darted his gaze toward her in surprise. Good-looking?

She shook her head. Forget I said that.

I'm not going to forget. Dating someone at my business or one of my friends is still an option. He'd all but sung the last part of his statement, making her roll her eyes.

A blind date with one of your acquaintances? No way. I'd rather take my chances with an online dating service.

Dan grinned. Not safe, little sister. If they find out you were paid that bundle back in Kansas, you'll be a mark for everyone in Colorado.

Well, sir, my lawyer got most of that. I only ended up with five million, after taxes. And most of that money went into the business.

You'd have had more if you'd just listened to me and used the guy I recommended instead of that fake lawyer.

I hear ya, she muttered. Deirdre really messed me up in that court case. She sighed. She'll get hers, someday, I hope.

He paused. Um…she contacted me.

What for? Vicki knew her voice was loud, but she didn't care.

She wants a job. She's moving to Denver and asked if I could hire her.

Vicki's worst fear. If she comes here, I swear, I'm putting out another restraining order against her. She's a stalker, after that first court case. Vicki knew what the woman was capable of, and none of it was good.

I'll do that for you, if you want, so it'll stick in Colorado, too. She won't get a job with me, for sure.

Vicki was sick of all the drama. If she hadn't testified, the guy would still be in jail. But because she'd dated him once and cried like a baby on the stand, he got off. That civil suit was my only saving grace. She closed her eyes and fought back tears. Everything I thought I had was gone because of those trials.

Maybe you should see someone about this.

Oh, I intend to, but not like you think. I want revenge, starting with that stupid psycho guy who turned me in for leaving my dogs alone in the house. He should also pay for fixing my door. I can't believe he thought they were human. And to eavesdrop like that… She shook her head. Some people are just dense.

Dan chuckled. Well, the past is the past. Deirdre won't get a job with me. If she wants to come to Denver, I can't stop her, but I can make it tough for her to contact you at all.

Good. Vicki crossed her arms, watching as Dan pulled into her driveway. Thank you for helping me out. Let me know how to get revenge on Psycho-Boy.

Dan sighed audibly, which meant she'd done something wrong. Dr. Connor Kelley. Don't forget it and don't call him Psycho-Boy. You'll already be hurting his reputation, anyway, and to call him names isn't good. He's going to want revenge, as well.

Yes, sir. She saluted and opened her door. Let me know.

I sure will.

Thanks. She got out of the car and headed for her house. She had to hurry because the catered party started in less than an hour.

She got to work with her employees. Before long, she'd taken everything to the client's party. She stood in front of the huge table at the venue, decorated to the hilt. At least she'd gotten there in time to set it all up. People were milling around, picking things up off the table to eat, and seemed to enjoy the food. In other words, the reviews were good, so far.

Dr. Jenkins walked up beside her. Fantastic Christmas party. You and your team did an outstanding job.

Well, thank you, sir. I have to admit, your directions of exactly what you wanted really did help.

He smiled. It'll be our little secret.

The man was anal-retentive, but Vicki didn't care. She preferred clients who told her exactly what they wanted, down to the silverware, rather than the ones who said 'whatever,' and then blamed her for not reading their minds.

The door to the conference room opened and Dr. Jenkins glanced over. Ah. The latest member to our practice just walked in. He pointed. I'd like you to meet him. Dr. Jenkins moved closer. He's single and moved here from Minnesota about two weeks ago for this job.

Oh, I don't think…

Dr. Jenkins ignored her, his hand thrusting into the air. Connor! Come over here. I want you to meet someone.

Vicki looked up and time seemed to stop. It was none other than the man who'd had her arrested. She thinned her lips. It was time to make him pay for his nastiness and her front door.

~~~~~

Chapter 4

The blonde woman stared as if he was on a chopping block, and she was his executioner. He was in more trouble than ever, but he had to be nice because his new boss stood beside her.

Connor extended his hand, but the woman kept her arms crossed, with anger covering her entire face.

Dr. Jenkins pointed at Connor, a smile lifting his lips. Victoria Barker, I'd like you to meet—

Dr. Connor Kelley, she said. We've met and I don't want to deal with him, sir.

Dr. Jenkins' eyebrows rose, staring at her. You've met him? But you don't go to our medical practice. We just hired him to be our consultant. He moved closer, crossing his arms. Was he a client of yours in Minnesota? He's only been here a few weeks.

She huffed in a breath. No, sir. He accused me of something this morning that wasn't true. Needless to say, my lawyer will be in touch with this man, when we take him to court.

Court? Dr. Jenkins stepped backward. What happened?

Connor had to calm this situation. Nothing I can't handle. From Victoria's outfit, she was the caterer, so he really didn't need to stay to talk to her. Connor motioned to the side for Dr. Jenkins. "Can we meet with everyone else here instead of talking to the hired help?" He had to get the guy away from Victoria, and couldn't wait to escape, himself. If things were different, he'd be flirting with her. But from the red on her face and that flash of anger in her blue eyes, he knew this wasn't a good time, even though she was beautiful. She snorted and thinned her eyes. If looks could kill, he'd be six feet under. Maybe calling her 'hired help' in a sarcastic tone wasn't helping much.

Dr. Jenkins shook his head. I want to know what happened.

Well… Connor watched Victoria's face, getting angrier by the moment. I made a mistake. A huge mistake I need to apologize for.

She dropped her arms from where they'd been crossed over her chest and addressed Dr. Jenkins as she pointed at Connor. "He turned me in to the cops for