Suzi stopped the car behind the tailgate. “Please take time to go home and hang your suit in your closet. You look nice and it would be shame to get your clothes dusty.”
“Thanks, but I’ll be fine.” He unfolded his tall frame and headed for his vehicle. After unlocking the door, he grabbed his work clothes and headed for the storage closet designated as his office.
He had a lot more to do before Suzi was ready for the charity gala. She had to be kidding with the children’s choir. Sure, they’d be cute as an intro, but definitely not as the entire entertainment.
As soon as school was over and the children had left for the cottages, Jacob stopped by Suzi’s office. “Could you take a walk with me to help me with a couple of ideas?”
Now dressed in slacks and low heels, Suzi joined him. “Sure, what’s the problem?”
“If you’ll show me your plans for the gym, then I can get a picture in my mind of what kind of entertainment you need.”
“I’ve thought about your comment that the children’s choir is not enough. I have to defend myself, though. I do know how to plan events, just not when I’m this desperate and strapped for cash. Mr. McConnell’s generous donation will give us some wiggle room to make more elegant arrangements.”
He opened the gymnasium door for her. “Do you have a good sound system?”
“Oh, yes. Well, good enough for sixth grade basketball games and the children’s orchestra. I’m not sure how it would be for professional performers.”
She gestured to one end. “We set up a small stage at that end that’s only a foot or so high. The bleachers will be folded up and moved elsewhere, which will fall under your area. Unfortunately, we can’t do anything about the backboards and hoops.”
“Decorations can hide them. How many tables do you plan to set up?”
“The school only has fifteen.”
Not nearly enough. “Who’s catering?”
“Riata. Rhonda Birch, the owner, grew up here and gives us a special rate. They’re a first class operation.”
“Yes, they are. That’s fortunate. Call Rhonda and tell her to bring in more tables.” He assessed the area. “You have room for thirty-seven tables… that’s two hundred ninety-six people. There’ll still be room for a small dance floor near the stage.”
“Rhonda covers the gym floor with something that looks like parquet wood so women’s heels don’t ruin the gym floor’s finish.” With a frown marring her beautiful brow, she met his gaze. “Jacob, that’s a lot more people than we’ve had RSVP they’re coming. If we have empty tables, won’t that look bad?”
“It would. So, let’s make sure we don’t have empty tables.” He guided her toward the hall. “Now, about the decorations. Who’re the teachers in charge?”
“Katie Wilson, Brandi Parker, and Ainsley Carpenter. They’re the most creative people on our staff. And, they’re doing this on their own time, Jacob. I wouldn’t feel right criticizing their efforts.”
He envisioned tragic results but kept that to himself for now. “Nor should you have to do so. Maybe you can have a meeting with them to discuss their plans and progress. You know, see if there’s anything they need, yada, yada. I’ll lurk in the background.”
She put her hands on her hips and faced him. Sparks shot from her lovely blue eyes. “Do you realize you’ve completely taken over my event?”
He held his hands out at his side. “I assure you I don’t mean to upstage you, Suzi. Knowing how important success is, I want to offer anything I can to make sure you raise enough money.”
She relaxed her posture. “And you’ve already done a lot to help. I’m sorry I keep snapping at you.” She gestured as she walked with him. “The problem is that I simply don’t understand why a janitor has so many resources. Every other janitor we’ve had just cleaned and occasionally spoke to the kids or grumbled a little. None of them had important connections to help raise money.”
“I explained that I used to work for Richison Incorporated. I had to work with the people they hired to do this sort of thing. Learned a lot and made a few connections.”
“Hmm, I’d say you made more than a few connections. You win, I’ll ask the decoration committee to meet with me after school tomorrow. I’ll call Rhonda tonight about the additional tables and food. Three weeks isn’t much time to finish plans.”
“Don’t be surprised at anything you read in the society section, okay?”
“I don’t usually read the newspaper. I get my news online and from TV. What do you think might startle me?” She grabbed his arm. “Jacob Porter, what have you done?”
“Nothing bad. I planted a leak that ‘seats for your exclusive charity event—one of the most sought after of the year—are almost booked.’ That should create some buzz.”
He took her arm and guided her down the hall. “See, the more unattainable, the more demand there is. The story was scheduled to appear in today’s paper. You should see a crush of reservations tomorrow and the next day.”
Her laughter tinkled like sweet silver bells. “You should be doing this full-time instead of being a janitor. Have you considered a career change?”
He stuck his hands in his pockets. “Naw, as it turns out, I’m plenty lucky to have this gig.”
“Not so, we’re lucky you have this job. You’re obviously destined for greater things.”
He gazed upward and spoke under his breath. “I hope I can look forward to upgrading.”
When they were back at her office, he stood shifting from one foot to the other.
She sighed. “Guess I’d better get home. Paddy will be wondering where I am.”
She’d reduced him to acting as awkwardly as a schoolboy. “Look, if you don’t think it would be improper, could I take you out to dinner tomorrow evening after the meeting with the decorating committee? We could go where your staff isn’t likely to see us.”
“I’d enjoy going out to dinner, Jacob. There’s no need to feel we’re sneaking around, though. We don’t have no-fraternization rules. In fact, our nurse Letha is married to our sixth grade teacher, David Gray.”
“Great. I’ll pick you up at your house. Six o’clock. Dress casually.”
“I’ll be ready. Goodnight.”
Humming under his breath, he pivoted and strode to get his suit from the hook in the storage room. This had been a good day.
He had twenty-three days left. Hard as he tried to resist, he’d developed feelings for the children’s home, for the kids, and especially for the gorgeous director. But, what had he been thinking asking her to dinner?
The last thing he planned was to develop a personal relationship with Suzi. He didn’t want her thinking he’d run out on her when he disappeared. You idiot, what else would she think? How was he going to explain not sticking around after Christmas?
He wondered how Gabriel and Michael planned his departure from Earth. Would he evaporate or go out in puff of smoke or have a heart attack? Were there other people on Earth who’d had his same experience?
Talking about his brother and their time in a foster home had him unable to get Mike out of his mind. He drove by the Richison Building downtown. The ultra-modern building with all glass exterior reflected the setting sun.
Some offices had a light glowing but most employees would have gone for the day. He’d bet Mike would still be at his desk. Jacob wondered if he could still get inside. Were his fingerprints changed or could he still access secure areas? Before he realized what he was doing, he’d parked and was in the lobby.
He nodded at the security guard, Wally Davis. “How are you doing, Wally? Your little boy walking yet?”
The surprised guard pushed the sign-in register toward Jacob. “He’s standing up and holding on but he hasn’t gotten brave enough to let go.”
Jacob signed in and chuckled. “Won’t be long until you won’t be able to keep up with him.”
The proud father beamed. “He keeps us busy now.”
“See you later.” Jacob strolle
d toward the elevators.
He took the express to the top floor where his and Mike’s offices were. He wondered who was using his space now. His hands were clammy and his chest hurt. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea.
When the doors opened, he stepped into the reception area. He strode to his former office and pressed his hand to the security plate. The door opened just as it had when he was Jacob Richison.
The room was exactly as he’d left it. His calendar was open on his desk to the day he’d died, the same photos hung on the wall, everything appeared as if he’d just stepped out for a break. The effect staggered him and he leaned against the doorframe.
What had he hoped to gain by coming here? A glimpse of his brother, that’s what. He turned and closed the door behind him then stood in the hall looking out the corridor’s glass wall at the view he loved of the city below. Failing light from the windows silhouetted him.
He heard a gasp from his back. “Jacob? Jacob, can that be you?”
He closed his eyes.
Dear Lord, give me the right words.
Slowly, he turned. His brother’s expression was hopeful then shattered. “Sorry, for a minute I thought you were my brother.”
Jacob swallowed the giant lump in his throat before he trusted himself to speak. “That would be something, wouldn’t it?”
Mike rubbed a hand across his chest as if massaging his heart. “Wonderful, but impossible.” With a shrug, his brother turned businessman. “Who are you and why are you on this floor?”
“Jacob Porter. I wanted to see you, Mr. Richison.”
Mike still assessed him with a skeptical expression. “You didn’t have an appointment and chose after business hours to appear?”
“Frankly, I took the chance on a whim.” He looked down at his work clothes. “You can see I’m not dressed for an interview.”
Frowning, his brother folded his arms across his chest. “What’s on your mind?”
“Let me tell you a story about a special place.”
“You might as well come in and have a seat. I’m warning you, though, I’ll have security up here in a flash if you’re up to funny business.” Mike gestured to a couple of chairs.
He grinned at his younger brother’s words, happy to see Mike was still a caring man and a soft touch. He sat where Mike indicated. This left them sitting only a couple of feet apart and at a forty-five degree angle.
“No tricks. Serenity Springs Children’s Home could use your foundation’s help.” He held up his hand. “I know you and your brother reviewed them last year and decided against a donation. Things have changed since then.”
Mike took a seat, his long legs crossed at the ankles. “In what way?”
“Dr. Jefferson Stephens passed away about four months ago. He left the home’s finances in ruins. His daughter, Dr. Suzi Stephens, is struggling to straighten out the mess he left and keep the home afloat.”
Mike grimaced. “Is she any better at business than her father was?”
Jacob dove into explaining Suzi and the home, complete with gestures to add emphasis. “She’s a child psychologist who’s trying to do her job and her late father’s at the same time. She’s stretched pretty thin. Fortunately, the place is well set up due to her grandfather’s organizational skills. A lot of programs keep going by momentum. Except the finances, which are in ruins.”
Mike leapt to his feet. “Your movements, your profile. I don’t know how, but you are my brother! How is this possible? I-I was the one who identified you at the morgue. I arranged your funeral. Jacob, you owe me an explanation.”
“Now, Mike, don’t jump to conclusions. I don’t look at all like your brother. Maybe the same build but that’s all.”
Mike shook his head. “You said no tricks, so don’t play games. This is too important. You have to explain.”
His heart aching, Jacob stood. “I-I have no explanation to give you. Coming here was a gross mistake.”
Mike’s voice unsteady, he grabbed Jacob’s arm. “Please! You have no idea how painful losing you has been. I can’t even force myself to change your office. I have to know how it’s possible that you’re here now.”
Jacob exhaled slowly. How much could he reveal? He was supposed to let go of his past, and he’d failed. The pain in his brother’s eyes defeated him.
Fighting tears, he faced his brother. “Sometimes there’s not a rational explanation, Mike. I’m sorry if my coming here has caused you pain. I wanted to see you, talk to you. I’d better go.”
Mike stepped in front of him, hands outstretched. “No, please wait. I knew it was you as soon as I saw you. Your face may be different, but your mannerisms, your walk, your eyes, the way you stand are the same. I don’t understand how it happened, but I’m grateful you’re here.”
Jacob shook his head. “If you told people your brother had returned from the dead, no one would believe you. You’d be labeled crazy from grief and all your decisions would be questioned.”
Mike plowed fingers through his hair. “I have been crazy with grief all right. My business decisions have been solid, but I can’t sleep, can’t get over all the things I wish I’d said and done before… before that crash.”
“There’s no need for regrets. If I could tell you I’m who you want me to be, I’m sure I’d say you were the best brother anyone ever had.”
Shaking his head, Mike said, “Now that you’re here, I won’t lose contact with you. I know you’re Jacob. You have to agree to spend time with me, you have to let me know what’s going on.”
Chapter Seven
Jacob took his brother by the shoulders. “Sit down, Mike.” He had no idea what would happen, but now that he’d made the mistake of coming here, he couldn’t abandon Mike. Couldn’t leave him with the raw edge of his pain exposed.
His brother resumed his seat in one of the chairs facing his desk and Jacob took the other.
Gabriel, Michael, forgive me for coming here and for what I’m about to do.
Jacob didn’t know what would happen. Would he suddenly disappear in a puff of sulphur-smelling smoke? Was he dooming himself to eternal damnation?
“Mike, I don’t know how to start. After the… the crash, I was given an assignment to prove myself worthy of Heaven instead of Hell.”
His brother’s mouth dropped open and he shook his head.
Jacob turned away. “See, I told you the explanation was unbelievable.”
Mike leaned forward. “I’m surprised, Jacob, but not rejecting your explanation. Please, continue.”
“There really is an angel named Gabriel and a ferocious looking angel named Michael who greeted me in what I guess was the entrance to Heaven. I have until December 24th to save the children’s home and show that I have compassion for others.”
“Of course you have. Your foundation and all the money you donated to charities prove that.”
Jacob shook his head. “Not enough. Apparently I needed to spend time one-on-one with someone in need. That’s why I’m dressed like this. I’m the janitor at the children’s home.”
Skepticism tinged Mike’s voice. “You? That’s a ridiculous misuse of your talent. They could at least made you the IT guy.”
He raised his eyebrows. “I wasn’t in a position to argue. I hope I haven’t blown the Heaven deal. I’m sure there’ll be a penalty for spilling my guts to you.”
Mike frowned, his blue eyes questioning. “What, you just clean and mop during the day? How does that prove anything?”
“There’s definitely a lot of mopping where kids are concerned, but I have to help raise money to save the home, too. The funny part is, I like being around the kids. I have to admit I also enjoy being around the director, Suzi Stephens. Too much.”
Jacob leaned back and exhaled. “Unfortunately, on December 24th at midnight, my assignment is over. I don’t know what happens then. I guess I’ll simply disappear.”
Mike reached out and seized Jacob’s arm in a death grip. “No, you can’t go again.�
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He adjusted his position in the chair to face his brother. “Mike, can’t you understand this isn’t something I control? I’m grateful to have another opportunity, but that’s all this is. My brief chance at redemption.”
Without releasing Jacob’s arm, his brother appeared to mull over his story. “W-What exactly did these… um, angels say?”
“I’m supposed to save the children’s home from foreclosure. That rotten banker, Oliver Welwood, got his hands on Suzi’s dad. Money that should have lasted indefinitely is gone.”
“Welwood? That man is always bad news. What’s this woman, um, Suzi doing to dig her way out?”
“There’s an annual gala on the 20th. She was going about it strictly small time with less than half enough attendees. I’m trying to help her salvage the event and raise the money she needs to last the coming year. She keeps asking how a janitor knows all the people and things I do.”
“Hard question to answer, isn’t it? Don’t blame her for asking.” Mike tilted his head the way he had when they were children. “Am I invited to this party?”
Jacob couldn’t suppress a grin. “Sure. Tables of eight are a thousand a plate. Riata is catering.”
“I’ll spring for two tables and invite some of the board members.”
“I’ll make sure you’re down for them. Trouble is, this time of year’s busy but I have to come up with dance music and a singer. I imagine the best have been booked for months.”
“Aw, you’ll think of someone. You’ve always been great at this kind of stuff.”
“I have to sort of tiptoe around Suzi. She’s already accused me of trying to take over her event.”
His brother gave a snort-like laugh. “Aren’t you?”
How great to once again share a smile with his brother. “Guess I am. I also hooked her up with Homer McConnell to get rid of Welwood. Harper and Welwood cooked up this deal where Welwood forecloses January 1st and Harper demolishes the children’s home to put up high-dollar condos and a golf club.”
“Sounds like those two. Neither would care a whit about tossing children out on the street.”
Angel For Christmas Page 5
