A Solitary Romance: Book 1 in the Only Love Series

by Violet Sparks

  "Hi, Sugar," Donald Crimshaw answered the phone on the first ring.

  "Hello, Daddy."

  "Something bothering you?"

  "What makes you say that?"

  "The big sigh you let out before saying hello."

  "That obvious, huh?"

  "Yes, Sugar, it's that obvious."

  "I found out this week that I'm getting a new boss. Sweet, old, Mr. Dodd is hitting the road and left an insufferable cave man in charge!"

  "I see."

  "I'm sure you don't, Dad. At least, not all of it."

  "Well, I know my baby, and I know you'll figure out how to handle it all with grace. If not, James can come down there and lay him out for you," Donald said, chuckling.

  She heard her brother making comments in the background and snickering.

  "Give Jim the phone, Dad. I want to put him out of his misery."

  Her father complied, and soon she bantered with her brother about everything from the weather to the state of her old room.

  "So, when am I going to see you, Kate?"

  "I'll come up this weekend."

  After more conversation and a lift in Katrina's spirits, the family said good night. She'd been correct. Phoning home put everything in perspective. She longed to tell her dad and brother about her gig at the museum, but that would mean spilling the beans about her blog, and she wasn't quite ready to do that. She felt happy as she slipped into a sound sleep, brought on by exhaustion.

  Chapter 5

  -Party Time-

  Katrina glided into the office Friday morning with a box of muffins. A wave of nervous fear ran through her when she saw the lights on. The idea of running into her new boss gave her the jitters. She guessed Robert came in early again, but didn't see him when she crossed the floor to leave the breakfast treats in the conference room. She then headed straight for her office, shut the door, removed her coat, and flipped on the computer. Knowing she'd be out late for the party, she chose an ice blue sweater dress, a favorite strand of faux pearls, and cream suede boots.

  One of her best pieces, the necklace contained Venetian glass, square intaglio cameos every six inches. The jeweler had carved a different image in each periwinkle piece of glass and left a maker's mark on the clasp, increasing the long strand's value. Not quite opera-length, the pearls still swished with every step she took. She'd managed to find earrings, made from a similar glass, on matte wires that matched the gold framing the cameos.

  The tap on the door startled her. She braced herself for the awkward conversation that must follow. She sat silent for a moment. Since he hadn't burst in, maybe he'd give up and leave. Don't be ridiculous.

  "Come in," Katrina heard herself say, then watched as the knob turned.

  Robert pushed the door ajar and poked his head inside. He smiled at her, the way he'd done at the library. It was almost enough to put her off her guard.

  "Can I have a seat?" he asked.

  So polite. What's gotten into him? She had to remind herself that he was a no-good, two-timing womanizer.

  "Of course," she said, feigning a professional friendliness.

  "I like to start my day early as well, so we'll have to get used to being alone together in the office each morning."

  She lifted an eyebrow but kept her gaze trained on her new boss.

  "I mean, I'm just letting you know in case you're feeling a bit awkward."

  "Not at all," she replied with a cool tone.

  "Also, so I won't startle you. I'm sure we don't want a repeat of yesterday," he said in a conspiratorial tone, lowering his voice and leaning forward. He had the nerve to grin and dip his chin, gazing at her over the top of his trendy frames.

  She fought the urge to avert her eyes, sensing it would give the man some kind of dominance over her, but could feel the heat of a blush coming on. Her new boss leaned back in his chair and, using his forefinger, pushed his glasses to the bridge of his nose. She couldn't help but notice his square jaw, set like granite, his thick hair, dancing eyes and muscular build. The man resembled a Greek god.

  "So, we're all good, right?" Robert stated more than asked.

  What your management style lacks, you more than make up for in looks, Mr. LaSalla. Katrina felt all soft, weak, and trembly again. She reminded herself what a jerk this man was.

  "All good." She hoped she portrayed indifference in her manner.

  She saw his gaze drop to her lips and linger there. She expected him to get up and leave, but it appeared he wasn’t going anywhere. She decided to wait him out. Minutes passed, as Robert's eyes shifted from her lips to the ceiling, her desk, her face, the windows, the bookshelves, and back to her mouth. He seemed content to sit, totally comfortable in his own skin. She decided to get on with her day and punched a few buttons on her keyboard.

  "So, about that report of yours."

  The sound of his voice startled her, shooting her backbone ramrod straight.

  "Yes?" she said, worried but still staring at her computer screen.

  "Uh, Katrina, eye contact, please, so I know you're with me."

  The nerve!

  She shifted her gaze to Robert and waited for him to drop a bomb.

  "Good work overall. I'd like a little more background on that privately held company that issued those securities. Why don't you dig around a little more? I want to give the client some juicy tidbits that prove our worth. I'll expect the information by Wednesday. Can you handle that?"

  She forced her thoughts to focus on those incredible diamonds from the photos in Barry's office. In a few months, she'd get to see the real thing. A serenity overtook her. Jewels always had that effect on her. It was akin to visiting one's happy place.

  Once composed, she mustered her best demure smile, fluttered her eyelashes, and said in her sweetest voice, "I'll do my best. I'm sure you won't mind advising me, or my calling on you for help, should I hit any roadblocks or dead ends."

  The man appeared caught off guard. He stumbled over his words, coughed, and glanced away. She was on to something.

  "I, I'm sure you'll do fine. But, if you do want me . . . uh, I mean my advice . . . of course, I'll make myself available."

  She watched as he rose from the chair. She couldn't help but notice his powerful thigh muscles. Keep it together. You're winning this one.

  "Uh, one more thing," Robert said, pausing in the doorway.

  This isn't awkward for you, is it, Greek god?

  "Yes?" she purred, allowing the tip of her tongue to slip from her mouth and graze the bow of her upper lip as she dipped her chin, and flitted her lashes again. Stay strong, Kate. He's almost gone.

  "You left yesterday before we had a chance to discuss it. I'll be setting up lunch appointments for all of our key employees, starting next week. So we can get to know each other better."

  "Fine." The auditor summoned her most feminine tone.

  Robert gave her a quick once-over and left in a hurry.

  Katrina threw herself back in her seat and let out a sigh of relief. She hated using her feminine wiles to accomplish a goal. It made her feel cheap. Still, it was worth it to see LaSalla uncomfortable. He'd think twice before insinuating that she couldn't be professional.

  Two hours later, William stepped into her office and shut the door.

  "Katrina, about that outburst yesterday," he said, taking a seat.

  "I'm sorry, Mr. Dodd. You know, I really didn't feel well."

  "I understand, and that's why I'm going to let it slide, and the fact that Robert claimed it was no big deal. I won't suffer insubordination, Miss Crimshaw, even if I'm fond of you."

  "I understand, and I'll apologize—publicly, if you'd like."

  "No, no. That won't be necessary. Let's not tarnish my last day here. You haven't been yourself all week, but I need you to promise me you'll help make this transition smooth for Robert and not cause him any trouble, as a personal favor to me."

  "I promise, Mr. Dodd."

  "Thank you, Katrina. Now, come join ever
yone in the conference room for breakfast."

  A party atmosphere prevailed in the office the rest of the day. No one even pretended to work. Employees mingled outside offices and around the floor, and laughter could be heard from all corners. Best of all, Robert LaSalla kept his distance.

  A happy group headed to the restaurant for William's going away party. They all but took over the bar area while waiting for their private dining room. Kiki took her usual spot next to Katrina. She looked as though she had news.

  "Last night, I went up to the gym after work, and you'll never guess who else was there," she whispered.

  "Your attorney from seventeen?"

  A fully equipped health club near the high-rise's top floor proved to be one of the most popular amenities of the building.

  "No, Mr. Man-of-Your—"

  "Shhh, Kiki. You have to stop saying that!"

  "All right, all right already. I'll try. Anyway, Mr. You-Know-Who was up there pumping iron with a vengeance. Then, he jumped on the treadmill and pounded out several miles. The trainer says he's been up there every night. Didn't even notice me, and let me tell you, I looked good. Sure seemed like he was working off some frustration. Ooh, all that sweat dripping off him and every muscle in his body rippling—"

  "Kiki! Enough already!" Katrina interrupted her friend.

  "Well, get this," Kiki continued as if nothing she said had been inappropriate. "I went over to Barstow's after dropping you off the other night. The attorney wasn't there, but I overheard something really fascinating."

  "What?" Kate asked, happy to move on to another subject.

  "Two bimbos from twenty-seven chatting about a great way to meet men: Attend AA meetings in Beverly Hills!"

  Katrina's mouth gaped open.

  "It's true, and it makes perfect sense. The guys are usually single and they're loaded. It's a full-proof way to meet eligible men!" she said, her volume rising with the last sentence.

  "Kate already has a way to do that," Robert said in a low tone, stopping behind them.

  "Do tell!" Kiki said, scooting over to make room for the new boss who'd just arrived at the restaurant.

  "You will have to ask her about yesterday morning," he said, placing his hand on Katrina's back before continuing, "I've been sworn to secrecy."

  He grinned before moving on down the bar and taking a seat next to Chuck Manning.

  "I hesitate to inquire about what went on between you two yesterday, but I will!" Her voice trembled with excitement and her eyes grew large and round, like a kid in a candy store.

  "Nothing. The man's insane," Kate replied matter-of-factly.

  "Katrina, that blush moving up your face says otherwise. When you're ready to spill it, I'm here for you, Girl. Oh, I've got to go say hello to Randy from sixteen. I'll be right back."

  She ran off through the crowded bar and left Katrina to stir her drink alone. The thought of her tussle with Robert was enough to make her blush. Insufferable man! She remembered her promise to Mr. Dodd. The LaSalla's must have been good family friends indeed for William to extract a pledge of peace from her. She wondered how she'd get through the next few months and could only hope that the older man return to his company soon.

  "So how was your day?" a familiar voice spoke close to her ear, and she felt her knees melt.

  Before she could answer, he reached for her necklace and held a section in his hand, rubbing a pearl between his thumb and forefinger.

  "Pretty. Did you know the lights above the bar have been reflecting off these crystal thingies? I've been getting hit with a real kaleidoscope, right in the eyes." He ran his hand up the strand of pearls to the next cameo, moving close to her for a better look at its carvings. She could feel his breath on her neck.

  "They're glass, Venetian glass intaglio cameos," she said sternly.

  Robert brushed a strand of hair from her shoulder and continued examining her necklace.

  "Very pretty," he repeated in that low tone which had such an effect on her. His breath caressed her ear.

  She felt sure she was about to repeat the fainting episode when Kiki came bounding back to the bar, clapping her hands to get everyone's attention. He dropped her pearls and turned his attention to the receptionist.

  "They're ready for us in the back. Everyone, come on, let's go. Mr. Dodd will be here in a few minutes. Chop, chop!" She raised her voice to be heard above the din. Men and women in suits, glad the weekend had arrived, now filled the bar to capacity.

  Katrina hurried past Robert and walked into the private room with Chuck Manning. She sat next to him and Kiki filled in on the other side. At least she wouldn't have to deal with LaSalla during dinner. The receptionist had asked her to say a few words, along with several other people, and she wanted to keep her head clear for that. Before long, everyone had found their seats, and waiters filled champagne flutes at each place.

  More time passed before she heard applause starting at the back of the room, signifying that the guest of honor had arrived. William had changed into casual clothes, sporting a crew-neck sweater and khakis instead of his normal power suit. He walked in with an entourage of close friends, most of whom she'd met before. It was an older, country club crowd. She saw Robert included with this group, and he seemed on familiar terms with the other gentlemen. Kiki stood and gestured for William to take the seats reserved for them, at the head of the table. As the pillars of the community filled their chairs, LaSalla chose one across from her.

  She resorted to the old technique of ignoring the man, and took great interest in the conversations taking place on either side of her. A major client and buddy of the managing partner stood to give the first toast. Katrina didn't listen. She went over her encounter at the bar. She had the impression that two or three men had toasted Dodd while she reviewed every detail of Robert's actions. Vaguely aware of bursts of applause and laughter, she forced her attention back to the party.

  "Penny for your thoughts."

  She glanced across the table to the source of those words and saw Robert examining her intently.

  "Say, why did you n—never mention this guy before?" Chuck asked. He sounded tipsy. "What's all this stuff about you turning him down?"

  She shot Robert a pleading look before turning to Kiki for help. The receptionist tried to distract Chuck Manning but had no luck.

  "You know, sh—she doesn't turn me d—down," Chuck stammered, slapping himself across the chest as if they couldn't guess which me he meant.

  Kate exhaled and rolled her eyes. This couldn't get much worse.

  "Stop it, Chuck," she said, but applause drowned out her words.

  The clapping died down and an eerie silence fell on the room. Did everyone hear Chuck's crude comments? She glanced around, confused, and noted that all eyes were on her. Yikes.

  "I'll go first," Robert whispered, rising from his chair.

  Still mystified, Katrina didn't figure out things until her new boss began his tribute speech. LaSalla started by thanking Dodd for giving him a position, then recounted what a true friend the managing partner had been to his parents. He kept it short, and the group, who by this time had imbibed quite a bit of alcohol, applauded vigorously when he finished.

  Kate took her position up front next. She stopped to hug the managing partner before beginning her speech, and tried to fight back her tears.

  "I've spent a lot of time with Mr. Dodd over the years, and I can honestly say he's the best boss I've ever had. But tonight, I'm going to share some things you might not all be aware of regarding our honored guest."

  Everyone laughed. She liked public speaking and knew how to hold an audience in the palm of her hand. She continued, making eye contact with as many guests as possible. Recounting the time she and Willian ended up stuck in an airport due to a freak snow storm, Katrina included tales of her boss taking charge of a colicky baby, organizing an all-night poker tournament among their fellow travelers, and purchasing an airline ticket so a college student could make it home for his s
ister's wedding.

  "Thank you, William Dodd, not for only the generosity you've shown your employees, but for what I've glimpsed outside the office. You are and will always be an inspiration." She ended her tribute, choking back tears.

  Wild applause erupted as the managing partner stood and embraced her in a bear hug. His circle of close friends stood, some bestowing hugs on Katrina, and some giving her hearty hand shakes. It would be a tough act to follow.

  Chuck, scheduled to speak earlier, still hadn't sobered up. He couldn't even sit straight but slouched over the table. Kate gave Kiki a worried look, but the receptionist remained unflappable. She watched as her friend whispered something in Manning's ear, then she, herself, stood by the head of the table.

  "We'd like to hear from the legend himself," she announced, gesturing towards Dodd, arms outstretched and palms facing the ceiling.

  One of William's more alacritous pals leapt forward and clasped Kiki in an embrace, lifting her off the ground by her waist and spinning her in the air. The room went wild. When the older man put the receptionist down, she gave him a mock shove and finger wag, while he mimed something they all understood as What, not me?