“Wow. That’s a big task to take on, but you know, I can’t think off the top of my head of any group around here offering the same thing.” They rarely talked about Lily’s first husband, but he knew the basics. No doubt she’d gotten the idea for her organization from her personal experience. She was remarkably well-versed in the needs of military widows and seemed passionate about her cause. Why hadn’t she talked about it more before tonight? Because he’d never asked? Not for the first time, he realized how much of their time together was spent doing what he wanted and talking about himself.
“Exactly. It’s an underserved population, one that most people don’t consider in need, probably because everyone’s so vocal with their support. Support doesn’t always last, though, or even translate to any kind of real assistance. Eventually, I’d love if we could function as a one-stop shop for these people leaving military life and returning to civilian status. They need resource referrals, financial assistance, employment service, education, you name it. Some of them have relied on their spouse’s income and have moved around so much they never put down firm roots. They need somewhere they can turn to make the changes a little less overwhelming.”
“So, what’s the end game? Are you planning to run this on the side while everyone stays at their jobs, or are you looking to make a more permanent switch?”
“Honestly? I hadn’t thought much about it until recently because it’s always felt like such an abstract concept. Now that it’s really coming together and it looks like we’ll make this thing a reality, I think I’ll make it my full-time job.”
“Wow, so no more modeling?”
“I could see myself going out for the odd job now and then, but otherwise, yeah, no more modeling. I’m ready to make a change. More often than not, I’ll be on set and all I can think about is new ideas for Soldier On or solving one of the problems that have cropped up. I’ve seen so much of the world and met a lot of incredible people, but this organization is what I actually care about.”
“I’m sure you bring a unique perspective to the table, one that really helps focus your mission.”
“Absolutely. I didn’t have most of the problems we’ll be addressing, but I know what the women are going through. I’ve known plenty of women who could’ve benefited from a place like this. My problems have been more with securing the initial funding as well as figuring out how we plan to keep the doors open and the lights on for the long term. I think we’re talking fundraising tomorrow.”
“Ah, fundraising. My favorite.” Did anyone enjoy fundraising?
“Yeah, I guess you know more than most that it’s a necessary evil. I’ll do whatever I need to do but never imagined how difficult it would be to get funding. I guess I thought money would follow the idea.” She laughed softly, gesturing in the darkened car. “I came up with this big idea but realized pretty quickly that I don’t know the first thing about starting or running a nonprofit. My degree is in social work, but I’ve never even worked in my field. My dad is on the board, and he’s got a ton of experience working in social services. It’s been helpful when it comes to the nuts and bolts, and it’s really just nice to have something we love to do together.”
“My dad was very involved in my first campaign. We had a good experience, but I think it was a bit much for him. Working with family is one of those things that can go either way, I guess.”
“Oh yeah. I wasn’t sure how it would work out with us, but it’s been great so far. We’ve tackled some big issues together, and so far, so good. Our next big hurdle will be finding a building. That might do us in.” She laughed. “Unless we find an amazing real estate agent, the stress could get to us.”
Ford may have grown up in the isolated luxury of wealth, surrounded by people who’d never known hardship, but he spent a considerable amount of time in his district. He wasn’t ignorant to the way people lived, the way real people struggled with everyday life. Any organization that helped women and men get back on their feet after losing their spouses in service to the country was one that he’d support. Getting involved with Soldier On could be a great way to pay Lily back for all the time and attention she’d given to him.
“Do you need anything? I could help.” The thought of spending time with Lily as well as doing something to help such a worthy cause was intriguing.
She sat up, and while her focused attention was amazing, he missed having her in his arms. “Would you have time?”
“That depends on what you need, but I’d be happy to do what I can.”
“Aren’t you super focused on your re-election? I mean, I know you’re kind of getting down to the wire with the campaigning this time of year.”
“I don’t spend all my time campaigning. I’m here with you tonight, aren’t I?”
“You know what I mean. Your work time.”
“I hate to point out the obvious, but the families who benefit from your organization might vote, and fundraiser events are typically full of voters as well. But that’s not why I offered.” She dropped her gaze, and he continued. “Your idea has a lot of promise, and I’d like to help.”
When she looked back up, he knew if he gave himself half a chance, he could get lost in those eyes. “Thank you. I hate to take advantage of you, but we could really use a big name.”
“It’s not taking advantage; I offered. Besides, it’ll be nice to help you out for once.”
“What do you mean?”
“Having you at my side helps every single time we go out. Every fundraiser, every social cocktail hour, every photo op. I invite you because I enjoy your company, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t good for my campaign. You definitely make me look good.”
She grinned, her eyes reflecting flashes of light from passing traffic. “I never thought of it like that, so you’re welcome.” Her light laugh wrapped around him in the car’s dark interior. “Seriously, though, one thing we’re lacking is publicity. It would be amazing if we could get a spot on Good Morning, Dallas. If you have a good contact there, I would really appreciate an introduction. Maybe I could get them to book us for an interview spot.”
“I actually do know the woman who books their guests, and she is easy to work with, so that’s no problem. Consider it done.” Glad he could help, he enjoyed the soft weight of her settling into the crook of his arm as they rode on.
To purchase this ebook and learn more about the author, click here.
Praise for The Election Connection:
“Monica Tillery has taken the story of two people thrust into a fake arrangement and made it her own ... a real page turner.”--4 stars, InD'Tale Magazine
For more books by Monica Tillery, check out:
The Confection Connection
“ ... she creates great characters that you can't help but fall for.” —4.5 stars, Up All Night, Read All Day
“The Confection Connection ... flows easily, leaving you feeling warm and cozy throughout. The characters are well developed, believable and the attraction between the two is intense and yet modest.” —Eat Sleep Read Review
“When two people (who) think they hate each other are forced to work together and then fall in love, it makes for a sweet, sultry romance.” —4 stars, Ebooks Galore Reviews
“If you watch a lot of cooking shows on TV, put down the remote and pick up this book, especially when something boring is on, i.e. a recipe not involving sugar or butter.” —Lyra's Musings
“The Confection Connection brings together two former rivals who realize that there is a fine line between love and hate, and creates a story that is sugary sweet.”—Night Owl Reviews
A Sweet Deal
“Monica’s characters make you want to cheer for them and hug them tight when their hearts break. The storylines are based on real life . . . sex and candy, what more could a girl want? This is a quick read for those summer days by the pool, catching some rays.” —Confessions of a Book Lovin’ Junkie, 5 stars
“Ms. Tillery gives us a twist with this sweet
tale set in the industry of confections. The arc of the story flows well and the limited amount of characters makes this a quick and easy read. A Sweet Deal is a great romantic love story that does see its up and downs as it shows a creative way to portray a classic love story.” —Julie Caicco, InD’Tale Magazine
To purchase this ebook and learn more about the author, click here.
For more books by Monica Tillery, check out:
Adam’s Ambition
“I recommend this read for every fan of romance. It was sweet, sensual, passionate, heart-stopping and gave me the perfect ‘home is where the heart is’ feeling I love so much!”—Contemporary Romance Reviews
Kiss Me, Katie
“Sassy and sexy, Kiss Me, Katie is a charming debut with larger than life characters and lots of sizzle!” —Jane Porter, RITA finalist and author of Lifetime movie Flirting With Forty
“A delightful novella romance. Tales of music stars finding love will adore Tillery's first book and will sigh with a smile at the end.” —InD'Tale Magazine
“Kiss Me, Katie is a heartwarming love story with the music scene at its core. Strong, well-developed characters along with a great plot makes you feel like you're in the audience at one of their sold-out concerts. Sit back and enjoy the show. You'll be glad you did!”—Romance Junkies
In the mood for more Crimson Romance?
Check out The Professor’s Secret by Peggy Bird at CrimsonRomance.com.
Sweet Texas Kiss (Sweet Texas Secrets) Page 17
