Again, Simon asked her if she had any questions or comments. She shook her head and thanked him for his assistance. She left his office to meet with Tom’s accountant, Harrison “Harry” Dredger, whose office was in the same business complex.
Once more she was seen within minutes after her arrival, as if either she was an important client or the man was in a hurry to finish their talk so he could leave for the day, or perhaps be rid of her. Cass observed that his tone and expression didn’t indicate tension or dislike. It was clear Harry catered to wealthy clients, since his office and clothing were in the most expensive taste.
Per Peter’s instructions, the family accountant would continue to pay her household bills from her trust fund. Harry Dredger went over her monthly expenses, income holdings, taxes, trust fund, and inheritance payout schedule. April’s “allowance” had been deposited into her checking account, as every ensuing payment would be on the fifth of each month. He told her he would teach her how to manage her budget if and when she wanted to handle her finances herself.
Aware of how complicated they were Cass smiled and told Harry she didn’t intend to do so any time soon.
He said he would send her a monthly report on expenditures, and an annual one which would feature her assets and liabilities. He told her to feel free to phone him with any questions or changes she wanted to make.
Cass thanked him, and left with another file of papers which she would study more closely at another time. As she drove home, she realized she was a very rich woman, at least on paper and at a future date when she would fully own and control that wealth, if she didn’t remarry too soon.
You were a cunning and treacherous sneak, Thomas Grantham, but I’ll find a way to outwit you! I’ll get your money and I’ll find true love, just wait and see!
After she reached home, Cass phoned Mary Ellis, who suggested she stop by after lunch tomorrow so they could meet and talk about the job.
Within ten minutes of Mary’s arrival, Cass was certain that Jason was right about the vivacious and genial thirty-two-yearold with curly auburn hair and expressive hazel eyes that brightened when she talked. As she showed Mrs. Ellis around, she learned that Mary and her husband, an instructor at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Brunswick, had only one child. Their son, who had been in a coma for a year following an accident with a drunk driver, was in a local medical facility where he could be tended and observed by doctors and nurses: Jason hadn’t told her that, and her heart went out to the young mother who couldn’t have another child. To help pay those enormous expenses, Mary worked three jobs.
As Mary glanced around the bedroom and smiled, she said, “I work from eight-thirty to five, ma’am, unless you prefer nine to five-thirty. With a house this size to clean thoroughly in two days, I couldn’t do extra things like windows and blinds and oven-cleaning and such on the regular schedule, but I can give you an extra day for those chores when one of my other bosses goes out of town and doesn’t need me.”
“Don’t worry about that, Mary; we have a window washing service that comes several times a year to do the outsides and insides, and my two ovens are self-cleaning. I only need for you to vacuum carpets, sweep floors and porches—but no walkways or driveway because I have a gardener who takes care of those once a week when he does the yards—mop, dust, and clean the bathrooms. I’ll take care of the rest between your visits. Since I live alone, most of the rooms are rarely used, except for my upstairs suite, kitchen, breakfast room, and den.”
“That’s fine with me, ma’am.”
“Excellent. If I ever ask you to do something that you don’t feel is part of your job or you don’t have time for, please just tell me and it won’t be a problem. Do you charge by the hour or day or what?”
“I charge eighty dollars a day for eight hours. I take twenty minutes for lunch, which I bring with me, and take two fiveminute breaks.”
“It isn’t necessary to bring your lunch, Mary; I always have plenty of food and drinks here, and it’ll save you time and energy in the mornings. As for rest periods, take them as needed and don’t watch the clock.”
“Thank you, ma’am. I have reference letters with me and you can speak with any of my current and past employers. I’m self-employed, so I pay my own taxes and social security out of my earnings. If that’s agreeable, I can start on Monday or on Thursday. Do you have any questions for me?”
As Cass searched her mind, she assumed from the woman’s next words that Mary must have thought she was being hesitant.
“If you’d like to think about it or contact my references, you can let me know over the weekend. I’ll hold the opening until Monday.”
Cass smiled. “I don’t need to speak with anyone about you. Doctor Burkman recommends you highly, so that’s good enough for me. I know this is a big house to clean and I realize doing a good job takes lots of time, so I won’t expect the impossible. Either schedule you select is fine with me. If you ever need a day off for any reason, even just to rest, that’s no problem. How does that sound?”
“That suits me fine, ma’am.”
“Me, too, Mary, and I’m delighted I found you. I’m certain we’re going to get along great. Now, do you prefer to receive a check at the end of each workday or once a week?”
“Once a week is fine with me, ma’am.”
“I know that medical bills can be terribly high, Mary, so if you ever need a month’s salary in advance, please feel free to request it. And if you ever want to work on a day that another employer lets you off, that’s fine with me; I’m sure you can find things to do around here.”
“That’s very kind of you, ma’am, and it will be most helpful. If there’s nothing else, I’ll see you on Monday morning.”
“I can’t think of anything. Good-bye, Mary, and I’ll be praying for your son’s recovery.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Grantham, and good-bye.”
“What do you mean you don’t need me anymore?” Inez asked as she received the shocking phone call Friday afternoon.
“I’m sorry, Inez, but the situation between us isn’t working out and I’m certain you’ll be happier with another employer. I’m deeply grateful for all you did for me while I was ill and you are an excellent housekeeper, but I think we agree that our personal relationship isn’t a pleasant one. I just interviewed another housekeeper and hired her to come in on Mondays and Thursdays; I’ll have—”
“But Mrs. Grantham, I’ve been with you for over two years! I’ve done good work! You didn’t even warn me this was coming and you’ve hired somebody else behind my back! This isn’t fair! Mr. Peter isn’t going to be pleased with you for firing me like this!”
Cass was annoyed with the rude woman but she tried to remain polite. “Perhaps Peter will want you to continue working for him. You can discuss that with him after his return tomorrow or you can phone him next week. After our many disagreements in the past and particularly how you behaved toward me yesterday, I don’t see why this should come as a surprise to you. As I was about to say before you interrupted me, I’ll have Mr. Dredger send you your regular check for this week’s salary and a second one for two-weeks’ severance pay. I’ll even furnish you with a reference letter.”
“How can a letter from somebody who fires you be helpful?”
Cass heard the anger and hatred in the woman’s voice. “I’m sorry this didn’t work out, Inez, but it’s for the best. I’ll only put what a good housekeeper you are in the letter, nothing about our personality conflict.”
“I don’t need your help or pity so don’t waste your time writing any letter! I wouldn’t come back to work for you if you begged me on your knees!”
Cass held the receiver away from her ear and gaped at it for a moment after Inez slammed hers down on its base. “You miserable witch!” she muttered, “Good riddance. Mercy, it’s going to be wonderful not having to deal with you!”
Cass stood before a full-length mirror in her bathroom and wondered if she was overdressed. Sh
e didn’t want to appear as if she were trying to be glamorous and seductive, not to Jason nor to anyone who might see them out together tonight and and get the wrong impression of her. She eyed the evening suit in pale-gold lace over a darker shade of fabric in that color. It had a scoop-neck top, four ornate buttons down the front, dark-gold satin edging around the neck and down the front, sheer sleeves that halted above elbow, and scalloped hems on its skirt and top. On her feet were pale gold T-strap pumps, and her hose had a hint of gold thread in them. She wore onekarat diamond studs in her earlobes, a diamond tennis bracelet, and a gold watch with a bracelet-style band.
Her freshly shampooed hair streamed over her shoulders in waves from large hot curlers, its deep brown hue revealing golden highlights from many recent walks on the beach. Her makeup had been applied with a light hand, as had the Passion perfume, her favorite scent. Her skin was smooth and fragrant from an application of body lotion after her bath. She was ready to greet Jason when he arrived.
You’re going to the Cloister, Cass, so you aren’t overdressed or overgroomed, she assured herself. Relax and have fun tonight. You deserve it. Just behave yourself around Jason. Take a deep breath and remember you’re a lady. No, remember you’re a recent widow and conduct yourself as one or the locals will think badly of you.
Cass went to the front door. “Right on time, Doctor; you’re just as punctual socially as you are at your office.”
“Thanks, I don’t like to keep people waiting; their time is just as valuable as mine is. You look absolutely stunning,” he murmured as his blue gaze walked over her from shiny head to gold-clad feet. Blazes, just looking at her aroused him like crazy!
“You look very nice yourself,” she said as she eyed what she was certain was an Armani suit in navy with a tiny white pinstripe. “Would you like to come inside for a minute or do we need to leave immediately?”
“We need to go soon, but I did bring you a gift I can put inside. It’s heavy, so I’ll carry it inside for you.”
Cass followed Jason to the kitchen where he set the box on the counter. She watched him open one end and withdraw a fifteen-inch-high sculpture on a six-inch base. As she gazed at the two verdi-tinted bronze hands with fingers touching and pointing upward, she realized one was male and the other was female.
“It’s called ‘Cathedral’ by Rodin. This one was put out by Austin. I got it at a local art gallery today. You said you were redecorating, so I hoped this would represent a gift of our friendship.”
Friendship? It’s so romantic, so sensual…She wondered if she should accept it. Yet, how could she refuse? The important questions were, What is Jason’s motive and what does the gift truly represent?
Chapter Eleven
“It’s beautiful, Jason, and I love it. You’re such a kind and thoughtful person. I’m lucky to have you as a friend and doctor. Thank you.”
I’m the lucky one, and you’re what’s beautiful in this room. One day soon, I hope that our fingers will touch. “You’re welcome, Cass. When I saw this piece, I immediately thought about you and had to buy it. You can decide where to place it later because we need to get going; we don’t want to lose our reservation.”
Cass was touched by his generous gesture. The fact that the sculpture had reminded him of her was a thrilling thought that sent tingles of pleasure over her. To prevent staring at him, surely with lust in her gaze, she smiled and said, “You’re right, and I’m ready to leave.” She retrieved her evening purse from the counter, glanced at the gift again, warmed in delight, and left the house with him after setting the alarm system.
They remained silent while en route, but each was thinking about the other and wondering where their relationship was going to take them. Both knew where they wanted it to go, but neither wanted to move too fast. It felt strange but wonderful to be alone with each other; yet, neither knew how to behave or what to say under these unfamiliar circumstances.
At the Cloister Resort located not far from her house, Jason parked his BMW across the street from the Spanish-style creamcolored stucco structure. The complex with its numerous matching structures, down to the red-tiled roof on all—hotel, villas, cottages, conference facitilty—was enormous and offered its guests a myriad of amenities and entertainments. As they crossed the street and strolled along one of the many rambling walkways toward the covered entrance, both noticed the shady and well-manicured grounds with an abundance of sprawling and moss-bearded live oaks, pollen-ladened pines, tall and short palms, and beds with blooming azaleas and assorted flowers. They passed green lampposts positioned to illuminate the lovely area at nighttime, and wooden benches for resting and socializing. At the end of the main drive beyond them, foot high scrubs spelled out Sea Island.
The front entrance overlooked a private marina on the Blackbank River, Rainbow and St. Simons islands, the bridge connecting them, the tidal marshland across the water, and an American flag that was flapping in the breeze. The setting was lush and peaceful, semi-tropical in appearance and climate.
A doorman smiled and greeted them before they walked up several steps into a lovely lobby that featured an elegant parlor to the left with a fireplace, many cozy sitting areas, and clerestory windows. As they strolled down a long hallway, they glanced at exclusive and pricey shops on both sides. They went down a few steps to where the maitre d’ greeted them, spoke with Jason, and checked his guest list. Beyond their position and along a large tiled walkway that separated carpeted eating areas was another huge fireplace. Decorative columns rose from floor to high ceilings where dimly lit chandeliers were suspended, creating a cozy ambiance.
The maitre d’ guided them into the main dining room where well-dressed couples chatted and laughed in muffled voices and music from a nearby piano and violin could be heard. Other couples could dance in the adjoining area where the orchestra played, but neither had any intention of making that romantic suggestion. Along one wall were arch-shaped windows with fake outdoor scenes, complete with plants and trees and focal lights, which created relaxing and picturesque views.
The maitre d’ seated Cass while Jason took his place at a table that was covered by a linen cloth in snowy white. Fresh flowers and a candle sat atop it, as did the china, crystal, and silverware that were arranged in a formal manner.
It was a place for elegant and leisurely dining. She was glad she had worn the gold evening suit because it was perfect for this setting, and it appeared to win Jason’s approval.
The waitress delivered a small tray of relishes with celery, carrots, Jicama, and olives, and a basket of freshly baked breads. She took their drink order—Chivas Regal scotch for him and a champagne cocktail for her—and handed them menus.
After they made their selections and as they nibbled on the relishes and bread and sipped their drinks, Jason told her the history of the Cloister, which Cass had learned about on previous trips but didn’t halt him or reveal her knowledge because listening to him was too enjoyable.
“In 1928, Howard Coffin and William Jones carved out one of the most fabled year-round resorts on this island. Guests from around the world come here to rest and play in luxurious style. While the hotel was being built, the first guests were lodged in a three-story houseboat at the yacht club. The architect, Addison Mizner, used the Spanish design he’d made popular at Palm Beach. The grounds are some of the most beautiful and well-landscaped in the world. Things were quiet and slow until the causeway between Brunswick and St. Simons was opened in ’24; then the boom came with tourists and residents. As you already know, not all of the home owners are permanent residents.”
She nodded, as her nearest neighbors fit into that category, and perhaps that was one of the reasons why she knew so few people there.
“In the early days, it tried to and did attract the rich and famous who wanted privacy and an opulent setting where they could be pampered; that hasn’t changed. Even Her Majesty Queen Juliana and her consort have stayed here, and presidents and movie stars and prominent citizens. The p
laywright Eugene O’Neill wrote Ah, Wilderness here. I think the reason it’s stayed so popular is because of the staff; everybody who works here is friendly, gracious, and hospitable. If you want to know more, I have a copy of Harold Martin’s book This Happy Isle I’ll loan you.”
“I’d love to read it; this place is fascinating.” Cass didn’t continue when the waitress arrived to take their orders for the six-course meal.
Afterward, the wine steward came to speak with them, and Jason chose a 1989 German Riesling Spatlese, Piesporter Goldtropfchen to complement their seafood selections for dinner.
Jason only told her a few more facts about the resort’s history before the waitress returned with citrus and avocado with seagrape dressing for her and local shrimp cocktail on ice for him.
As they ate their appetizers, Jason amused Cass with “The Legend of Spanish Moss.” It was the story of a Spanish villain named Gorez Goz who had a thick and long gray beard and who fell in love with a local Indian maiden and lavished her with gifts. But the girl was terrified of the man with hideous hair on his face, as her race had none. She escaped his pursuit and climbed a tree to conceal herself after she became too tired to run farther. The villain discovered her hiding place and tried to scale the gigantic live oak to capture her, but his beard became entangled on the branches and he perished there, unable to free himself, leaving behind reminders of his gray beard and thwarted love.
Jason chuckled and said, “Most tourists don’t realize Spanish moss is a favorite residence for chiggers when they snag some to take home with them; the last itch they wind up scratching is one for romance.”
Cass laughed and concurred, “Being from the country, I recall those nasty little pests only too well. Mother used to dot bites with turpentine that burned like fire and almost left scars.”
“Ouch,” Jason said with a comical grimace.
Love With A Stranger Page 18