by Ruby Monroe
She thought, Makes perfect sense. Like most separated men, he’s looking for a woman to fill the void the wife left. Maybe that’s not a fair comment in George’s situation. I don’t feel like I’m filling in for anyone.
That afternoon, they walked hand-in-hand along the bluffs, drinking in the amazing scenery and listening to the pounding waves. They whispered in each other’s ears hints of how each was going to please the other when they returned to George’s place. They were emotionally and physically preparing for their next sex dance in the sack.
Everything was so beautiful, even the many gray shades of cold lake water. Crisp white snow crunched underfoot with every step. Although they were bundled up in their down-filled winter jackets to keep warm, neither one even thought about the frigid temperature. Both were now so sexually aroused that they were totally oblivious to their red noses, rosy cheeks, numb fingers and toes and visible breath.
Later, they stopped at the local food market to purchase groceries for the dinner George insisted he would cook. Carrying fresh broccoli, chicken breasts and miniature potatoes, they returned to his toasty warm apartment.
They drank wine from water glasses, little knowing that this was becoming a new trend for yuppies. They were ahead of the trend by default. George showed off his domestic skills by cooking a delicious gourmet meal. While eating his masterpiece, they held hands across the table, chatted and listened to his stereo. Under the table, her shoeless toes found his junk. She wiggled her toes, caressing him to full arousal. Concentration on any other topic became difficult.
Both were huge fans of Neil Diamond. Every song he sang was erotic and became their favourite. Years later, every time Ruby heard Neil Diamond sing “Forever in Blue Jeans,” she smiled at the memories it churned up. She felt that wonderful tingle in her vagina and wetness between her legs. The memory lived on.
Once again, George offered his special dessert. “Enough,” he pleaded. “Let’s hit the sack before we explode.” The horny couple left the dirty dishes on the table. Ambling down the hallway arm in arm, they moved in unison, kissing and whispering what they wanted from their sex mate. They started with tender, sweet, lovingly soft foreplay. They took their time and enjoyed every erogenous zone.
Then they passionately made love—touching and kissing eyelids, eyebrows, temples, shoulders, hands, arms and hair. Hungrily they touched and stroked each other’s zones. This stimulated both Ruby and George and increased their arousal level to territory they never knew existed. Once again, he penetrated her with his very large stiff cock. He was so large that he completely filled her. He was touching all sides of her vagina, and then he hit the G-spot, sending her up, up, up into her favourite space. Her orgasm was like being blasted out of a cannon, up—up—up into oblivion. She held her breath and enjoyed the wonderful feelings that caused her to moan with pleasure.
She arched her back and waited while she seemed to hover in that wonderful place of glorious erotic nothingness, like being suspended in space, and then slowly, ever so slowly, she floated in and out, in and out toward reality. Totally drained, with every inch of her skin tingling, Ruby felt weak as a young sapling. As usual, along came the pulsating aftershocks—up to the pinnacle, then down, then up again and down again. Her whole body tensed and then shuddered each time. She was totally depleted of energy when it was over. As usual, it was difficult for her to catch her breath.
Once again his penis, Xmas, had delivered a delightful gift, as it had each and every time before. It was the gift that just kept on giving.
George, while playfully twisting her hair around his fingers and nibbling her earlobes, said, “I really enjoy making love to you, Ruby. I know I’m sounding like a broken record, but it’s true. I’ve never known anyone to experience such intense climaxes. I’m officially naming your orgasm the “super-duper O.”
Ruby shyly smiled and said, “I’m amazed at how erotic our lovemaking time has become. I’ve reached new heights even for me. I guess it must be Xmas, if we can give credit to anyone or anything.” She pointed to his now very limp member. “These orgasms are not going to be easy to forget. Sometimes I wonder if you’re spoiling me for any future lover.”
They slept wrapped up in each other’s arms, offering comfort and support as usual.
Chapter 29
Summer 1979
Janet McNeil, a member of the marketing department, resigned. As was the custom—especially in this creative department, as they were very social—her fellow workers arranged a farewell party. All departments were invited.
Mr. Wilson approached Ruby and asked, “Will you be the representative of the human resources department at the function for Janet?”
“Sure, I can do that,” Ruby agreed.
“You know the rules, right? No fraternizing with employees. I’m a real stickler for the implementation of that policy,” Mr. Wilson reminded.
Ruby wondered if this was a warning. Do they know something? Both George and I have always been so very careful around the office.
Later that morning she saw George in the cafeteria. He asked, “Are you planning to go to Janet’s party this Friday?”
“Yes, as a matter of fact I am. Mr. Wilson is sending me as the representative of our department. He also gave me a pep talk about the company’s no fraternization policy,” she offered with a mischievous smile and twinkle in her eye. She sarcastically said, “I wouldn’t think about doing something that would break the fraternization rules.” They both grinned and snickered.
“I guess that means we’ll not be allowed to dance or sit together at the same table,” he teased with a playful grin and a wink.
“You got that right. He and his buddy the president will be watching me like a hawk. I get the impression that he suspects something, but he’s not quite sure yet. It may be just because I’m now single that he’s anticipating a problem.” She looked off into space to mentally review their office behaviour. They had been very careful.
“Can we meet after the party?” he pushed.
“No. I absolutely do not want that to happen. I do not want to have that possibility floating around in the air. I will leave on my own and go home on my time. It’ll be better for both of us. We need to be smarter than them.”
At the party, Ruby circulated. Wine in hand, she approached a group of coworkers. “Hi, Shirley. How are you doing? Do you still like your new job in the sales department?”
“I love it. So nice to get away from reception. I did like it, but this job is so much better.”
Ruby turned and addressed another coworker. “Elaine, good to see you at a function!”
“My kids are older now,” Elaine said with a smile. “It’s wonderful to have ‘latch-key kids.’ Mom gets more freedom.”
Many females in the group were young mothers. They all smiled and nodded in agreement.
Ruby started to move away. “Great to see you all. I guess I should keep moving—I’m on a mission, as I’m the human resources ambassador. Enjoy!”
A chorus of goodbyes and good nights followed Ruby.
Suddenly, Jack from sales grabbed Ruby and pulled her onto the dance floor.
“Wow! I guess you want to dance, Jack.”
“Sure do. I love to dance to any of the Beatles.” Jack a very good dancer, really knew how to cut a rug.
Three tunes later, Ruby begged, “Can we sit this one out, please? You’re wearing me out.”
“Sorry, Ruby. I had a feeling you were a good dancer. Thanks! You’re such a good sport.” He walked her to a table where some managers were drinking and chatting.
“Ruby, good for you. You lasted longer with Jack than most would have,” Merle said, complimenting Ruby while patting her shoulder.
“Yes. He’s a high energy character, for sure,” said Sean, a sales representative.
“Where’s our manners? Have a seat and recover from the gymnas
tics that Jack put you through. Come sit here.” J. D. said as he pulled out a chair for Ruby.
The group laughed, partly from J. D.’s comments, but probably from a few too many alcoholic drinks as well.
George approached the table, leaned in and directed his comment to his peers but more to Ruby. “I’d ask Ruby to dance, but I think she not only needs but deserves a drink to quench her thirst.” With that, he placed a glass of white wine in front of her.
Merle teased, “Smooth, George.”
More laughter followed.
The party was a lot more fun than this type of get-together normally was. Ruby, now bored with the drunken jokes and phony laughter, said her goodbyes and left. “Night all.”
At home, Ruby checked her messages. Jason had called three times, with each call more rude and abusive than the one before. Delete. Delete. Delete.
A few hours later, George appeared at her apartment. He was slightly inebriated. Ruby welcomed him with open arms, as she was horny and hoping he felt the same.
Chapter 30
Summer 1979 Cont’d
Monday morning after the farewell party for Janet, Mr. Wilson invited Ruby into his office to have a coffee with him. “How was Janet’s send-off?” he asked.
Ruby was taken aback by the question. She responded with caution, “It was okay. I’m not really in a partying mood these days. I’m still adjusting to my new status,” she lied.
“I hear you and Jack from sales put on a bit of a show.”
“Did I do something wrong?”
“No. I guess I didn’t know you could dance like that.”
“I’m separated. I didn’t join a nunnery.”
“Now that you’re separated, I don’t want to see or hear that you’re seeing one of our male employees socially. You know how I feel about office relationships,” he stated, reinforcing his previous warning.
“Understood,” she responded with an inquisitive frown.
“Mr. Fischer told me this morning that he thought you were a little chummy with one of the male managers in accounting. He also noticed that you totally ignored George in purchasing. Now we all know with George’s extrovert personality, that’s hard to do,” he continued, closely observing her for a hint of a reaction. “The boss man thinks that could be a sign that something is brewing.”
“You mean that wonderful man who came to wish the staff in our department happy holidays and shoved his tongue down my throat? Is that the perfect Mr. President you’re saying is judging me and my behaviour?” She got angry every time she thought about their president. More than that, she wanted to change the direction in which their conversation was headed.
“What are you saying? He did that to you? Why didn’t you tell me?” Mr. Wilson declared in a very angry voice. With great force, he slammed down his ceramic coffee cup on his desk. The hot coffee spilled onto the glass protector. Much to Ruby’s surprise, he was genuinely infuriated and taken aback. She was positive by his reaction he had no idea about his boss’s behaviour. Why didn’t he know? Everyone else did!
“If I had told you, we would have been having this conversation many months ago.” She knew she had said too much. It didn’t matter; it was clear to her that she was on her way out.
A few weeks passed. She felt the tenseness growing around her. Ruby was not sure what to expect, but something was in the wind. She was sure of it.
Ruby was careful to not add to the negative mood by telling Mr. Wilson about their president and the vice president of marketing telling a secretary a crude joke. Just as Ruby passed by, she heard “rape,” and then they laughed. She stopped in her tracks and interrupted. “Both of you fellas have wives and daughters. What is so funny about rape? Would you still find it amusing if a female in your family was raped?” She didn’t wait for a response. She just left the comment hanging.
Andre, the vice president of marketing, didn’t speak to Ruby for months after that. He always put on a Santa suit and handed out the gifts under the Christmas tree at the office party. Ruby overheard him asking her assistant if she would perform the task this year. Ruby walked out of her office and said, “I will.”
Sometime after she had left for the day, Santa’s suit and accessories were dropped on her desk. “Perfect.” She had a plan.
The day of the office Christmas party, Ruby dressed in her version of Santa. She appeared at the party in costume.
Andre was taken aback when he saw her and asked with a wrinkled nose and disdain in his voice, “Who are you supposed to be?”
Ruby stood tall and proudly declared. “Mrs. Claus.” She wore the red hat and fur trimmed red jacket with a wide shiny black belt. Instead of pants, she wore a black skirt with the faux boots. She observed his slow burn and enjoyed every second.
Most of the employees applauded. Point made.
From then on, he called her a feminist. He thought it was a negative or insulting comment. Ruby didn’t. She took it as a compliment.
Chapter 31
1980: On the Move Again
Ruby had just settled into her daily routine of processing this week’s pay increases. It was a beautiful sunny warm day following a great fun-filled weekend with George.
Mr. Wilson crossed the hall and knocked on her open office door. “Good morning, Ruby. May I come in and have a chat with you?”
“Yes, of course. There’s nothing too pressing right now. I have three interviews scheduled for this afternoon.”
He entered, closed the door and sat down. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the top edge of her large wooden desk.
This is different. I wonder what he has on his mind. I really shouldn’t be so suspicious. Can’t help it—it’s in my DNA.
“How was your weekend? Any problems I should know about?” he asked, struggling to sound casual.
Why is he beating around the bush? I’m pretty sure I know his agenda.
“Good. How was yours?” she responded, still wondering what exactly he was up to, as this was not his normal morning routine.
“Do you remember that conversation we had a couple of weeks ago about your career?” he asked, trying to act like he had her best interest at heart.
Ruby was wary about this question. “Sure. Do you have something to add?” She was careful, as this seemed to be unnatural and puzzling territory.
“I just wanted to let you know that you can use me as a reference. I will give you an excellent recommendation and help you find a suitable position. I know lots of people in the recruitment business. I don’t mind making a few inquiries on your behalf,” he added enthusiastically.
“I’m not sure. I’m just not very comfortable with this conversation,” she warily added. Ruby was asking herself, Why? Where did this all come from? Is it a coincidence that he’s offering his help? No. The big boss wants me out of here. Got it!
“Don’t worry. These conversations often happen in management situations.” He attempted to reassure her that all was well and normal.
“You’re aware that I have just made a fresh start to my life and in a new home away from my abusive ex-husband. A new position wouldn’t go amiss. I do need to be very careful, though.” She was paving the way for her next move while helping him with his awkward situation. “So what’s going on, Mr. Wilson? Do you have a mandate to encourage me to move on?” She stared directly into his dark brown eyes. She was sure she could tell if he lied to her.
“You’re a smart girl,” he said, and then he stood and reached for the doorknob. His parting words were, “Remember, I will be happy to give you a great reference.”
Ruby thought, Screwed by a male once again. When will this ever stop? Most likely not in my lifetime.
That evening, she shared the conversation with George. “Bastards!” was his only repeatable comment.
“Okay, babe,” she said. “Let’s go play squash.” Her new pass
ion for living and her handsome young lover were quickly bolstering her self-esteem.
“But … you, said … oh, I get it now. How about tomorrow after work at the club down the street from the office? I’m in for the game. I prefer to play by my rules, though.” George didn’t hesitate, but he also wasn’t sure he was ready to change his employment.
George was already a member of the New You Fitness Club. She signed up for the whole program, squash and fitness. It was time to get her body in shape for a job search.
He had taught her to play squash so they had a sport they could do together. They would go through their fitness routine and then have a game of squash. They played frequently at their club. Her apartment complex also offered courts for renters and their guests. The location made playing on weekends less of a hassle.
Cooling off with a cold drink after a rather vigorous match, Ruby said, “It’s always the female who needs to leave. You’re fine, George. Don’t worry. They won’t fire you, as they know I’ll be leaving soon. I think if I actually applied to be a president, they would give me a glowing recommendation,” she teasingly said, grinning from ear to ear. They both had a good laugh.
“Wow, how did you figure that out? Being a woman requires a whole other set of skills.”
“You have no idea,” she boldly responded.
She deserved this new life. She had paid her dues. Her professional credentials were current, and her body at the age of thirty-nine was in its best shape ever.
Watch out, world. Ruby Monroe is in the game.
It was important to her that she acquire new and secure employment. She couldn’t survive without a reliable steady income. Every day, she scoured the want ads. Not a single advertisement suited her skill set. She also signed up with agencies that placed people in open positions. Her resumé was excellent and demonstrated her continuous increased responsibility and accountability as she moved up the corporate ladder.