The Swear Jar

by Osorio, Audra

  “Meara’s good at what she does,” said Lucy. “I’m watching the photocopiers. She gets people going.”

  “Miss Meara’s going up a ladder? I can’t let her do that!” exclaimed Duncan.

  “I’d like to see you tell her that,” said Lucy.

  “I will, right now,” said Duncan.

  Duncan hurried over while Meara and Sherrie opened the ladder. Meara stood on the bottom rung. Sherrie held the banner in her hands.

  “Ladies!” said Duncan. “May I ask what you’re doing?”

  “Duncan!” said Sherrie, grinning mischievously. “We’re hanging the banner.”

  “I can see that. Why is Miss Meara going up a ladder?”

  Meara replied, “Someone has to put the banner up.”

  Sherrie piped up. “She won’t let me. She said if someone was going to get hurt, it was her.”

  “That’s very admirable, Miss Meara, but I’m sure we can get someone else to go up the ladder,” said Duncan.

  Sherrie grinned. “Yeah, like who? Tom? Are you volunteering, Duncan?”

  “Don’t be silly. As long as someone holds the ladder, I’ll be fine. We’re talking about it longer than it takes to do it,” Meara said.

  “I’m sorry, Miss Meara. I can’t allow you to climb the ladder,” Duncan said stubbornly.

  “Why? Because she’s a woman?” asked Sherrie.

  “Certainly not. I’d never forgive myself if Miss Meara hurt herself on her first day. There’s another reason, but it’s rather delicate,” Duncan said quietly.

  “What is it?” asked Meara, placing her hands on her hips.

  “Let me put it this way. You’d have to go higher up than I would to reach the same spot. I’ll go up the ladder and it’ll be safer,” Duncan said, waiting for her reaction.

  “Did he call me short?” asked Meara, turning to Sherrie.

  “Yes, he did, but he’s right. I’d let him do it if I were you,” replied Sherrie.

  “Mr. Phillips, you win. You can put up the banner. We’ll hold the ladder.” Meara sighed. “I’m insulted on my first day and by the director, no less. It’s a shame.”

  Meara was teasing Duncan. Her eyes danced. Her dimple beckoned to him. Energized by her affectionate attention, he nimbly climbed up the ladder while she held it. Sherrie handed the banner to him. The banner went up and passed the women’s close inspection. He came down the ladder. Meara beamed at him.

  His heart skipped a beat as he lowered his voice. “Will you need the ladder again today, Miss Meara?”

  “No, I don’t think so. Thank you, Mr. Phillips. It was very kind of you to help,” she said, a little flustered.

  “You’re welcome. Please let me know if you need any other help.”

  Duncan walked away, carrying the ladder. As he passed the Circulation Desk, Tom and Lucy shook their heads. Heaving a deep breath, he stopped to rest for a moment.

  Smirking, Tom said in a low voice, “Smooth, Duncan, smooth. Keep up the good work. Isn’t the ladder a little heavy for you to carry by yourself?”

  “A little. I may have pulled something. It was worth it.” Duncan grimaced.

  Tom chuckled. “I have a feeling this is going to be a long summer for all of us.”

  “What’s wrong with you, Tom?” asked Lucy. “There has been more excitement here in one day than there has been in years. Meara has brightened this place up. I think time is going to fly. Be quiet, Tom, and enjoy it while you can!”

  “I didn’t mean to ruffle your feathers. It was dragging around here. When will the kids start coming in?” Tom threw up his hands.

  “How long before we see Anne again? I can’t imagine Meara without a little help from Anne,” laughed Lucy. “You two go put the ladder away before you both pull something.”

  “Yes, Lucy,” said Duncan and Tom in unison.

  The summer did fly by as Meara brought in the children and teens. There were programs, storytimes and performers for everyone. The children and their parents came for fun and books. Parents wanted to know if Miss Meara was going to be around after summer. Duncan happily told them she was going to be there for a long time. Anne helped with programs and Sherrie was Meara’s unofficial assistant. Duncan was thrilled with the way his library was thriving. Meara continued to check in with the South Branchville ladies, but there was no sign of Russell.

  Duncan made sure Meara felt special. He ordered her Summer Reading Club supplies promptly and helped her sort through them when they arrived. He made sure to relay the compliments patrons paid her. When the children asked for Miss Meara, he told them where to find her. Duncan felt a strong working relationship with Meara would be the best way to win her affection and hopefully, her love.

  Chapter Ten

  Before Meara realized it, the Summer Reading Club was over. The program had gone well, despite the late start. Once the word got out there were fun things to do at the library, the kids came. Meara and Sherrie had to laugh when parents asked about the start date for September programs. There was no time to enjoy their success. Meara liked Sherrie very much. Sherrie was down-to-earth and hard-working. She was also incredibly talented and very organized. Meara wanted Duncan to make Sherrie her assistant permanently.

  Meara tried to liven up the Youth Services Room. They had rearranged and decorated the room, but it still looked dreary. The place needed a good painting. The tan walls were boring. Any new paint, any new color, would be more appealing than it was now. She needed to ask Duncan if she could paint. He was the most supportive director she had ever known. He was also the most attractive director she had ever known. She blushed when she thought about the little things he had done for her since she had arrived.

  Meara knocked on Duncan’s office door. He smiled. She always melted when he smiled. She shyly smiled back. He moved towards her until he stood next to her. Having him so close made her nervous, sending the butterflies in her stomach fluttering wildly.

  “Good morning, Miss Meara,” said Duncan softly. “Are you still recuperating from Summer Reading?”

  “Good morning, Mr. Phillips. Yes. We had lots of fun, but I’m glad it’s over. We’re already thinking of next year.”

  “Already? I can tell you everyone thinks this summer was a success.”

  While she appreciated his efforts to praise her, Meara didn’t want to discuss Summer Reading now. Painting the room needed to happen before the new programs started in September. She refocused Duncan quickly.

  “I’m sure all the Youth Services people will be abuzz about Summer Reading at the September meeting. I’m told the meeting will be at the South Branchville Library,” Meara grimaced.

  “At the last directors’ meeting, I asked to move the meeting here. It’s only fair the Chairperson be on her home turf. Would that appeal to you, Madame Chairperson?”

  “Thank you, Mr. Phillips. That’s fantastic!” said Meara, spontaneously throwing her arms around his waist, hugging him.

  He hugged her back, holding her tight. They were both pleasantly surprised. Her head rested on his shoulder. They held still, not sure how to part and not wanting to part. They gazed at each other. He wanted to kiss her dimple and she wanted to kiss his chin cleft.

  She whispered, “Mr. Phillips, I came to ask you something. I’ve been looking at the Youth Services Room. I think it’s time to make some changes.”

  “What kind of changes are you thinking about?” he asked, curious and nervous as he gently released her from his embrace.

  “The room needs a new coat of paint.” She inhaled deeply, trying to clear her head.

  “Let’s see what we can do. What kind of painting? Are you willing to paint or get volunteers to help you?”

  “A new coat of paint, one color, would be good. I’d be willing to paint and I could get some reliable volunteers. If it started on a Friday night, it could be done in a weekend. Especially with the library closed on weekends for the summer.”

  “What color were you thinking of?” he asked.

>   “I’m not sure. Do you have any suggestions?” replied Meara.

  “I’ll go to the hardware store today and pick up paint chips. We can look at them together. How does that sound?”

  “That sounds wonderful,” said Meara beaming. “I look forward to it.”

  She had a big grin on her face as she passed the Circulation Desk. She stopped in front of Tom, placing her hands on her hips. She had a plan.

  Tom asked, “Did you eat a canary? What’s up?”

  “Tom, is there any way I could get you to stay late on Friday and paint the Youth Services Room?” asked Meara.

  “That doesn’t sound like much of a date,” chuckled Tom. “Are you painting the room?”

  “Sorry, Tom. It’s not meant to be a date,” Meara said. “And yes, I’m going to paint the room. Hopefully this Friday.”

  “Do you need help? I can rope my husband into coming in for a while,” said Lucy. “Just say the word.”

  “That would be fantastic! Mr. Phillips is picking up paint chips. Once we have paint colors figured out, I’m going for it. I can only promise pizza, Tom. Is that enough of a bribe?” asked Meara.

  “Count me in! The wife’s going to her sister’s, so I need to stay out of trouble,” said Tom.

  Later that day, Duncan knocked on Meara’s door. She looked up from piles of summer craft supplies and program papers. Duncan fanned the paint chips out like a bouquet of flowers. She smiled brightly and clapped her hands.

  She squealed. “Fantastic colors!”

  “Let’s tape some to the walls. We can live with them for a few days and then decide,” said Duncan.

  “I’d like to start this Friday. I’ve spoken to a few friends and they’re willing to help. If we can get the paint, brushes, and drop cloths, we’d be all set.”

  “Friday? Are you sure?” He was surprised.

  “I don’t want to wait too long.”

  “Would you like my help? Who else is volunteering?” He was eager to spend time with her.

  “I’d love your help. Lucy, her husband Joe, Sherrie, her husband Dave and Tom are coming. If we get the bulk of it done on Friday, I can come on Saturday and finish what’s left.”

  “Then we better decide now. Shall we take a look?”

  “What color do you like?”

  Duncan spread the paint chips on the table. He had chosen sedate colors, leaning towards blue and green shades. He wasn’t sure what color she wanted. Telling the truth was the best way to go.

  “I like the greens. The town is named after an oak tree and the greens go with the existing décor. I don’t know what shade is best. What do you think?” he asked.

  “I agree. The blues are calming. The greens are peaceful, welcoming colors like walking through the forest. I would be content with green.” She got lost in his eyes for a moment. “Tying in with the town’s history and nature is a wonderful idea. This pistachio green would look great on the walls with cream paint for the window trim and moulding. What do you think?”

  “I think we have our colors. I’ll go tomorrow for the paint and supplies. If the walls are all painted on Friday, you and I can finish up on Saturday.”

  “You and I on Saturday?” She swayed nervously. “That would be nice.”

  “It’s a date,” he grinned, thrilled to catch her off guard. “I’m curious. How did you get the others to volunteer?”

  “I bribed them. Pizza sealed the deal with Tom. The others just wanted to have some fun.”

  He chuckled. “That sounds like Tom. You don’t have to bribe me. I’ll be there for you.”

  “I know you will, Mr. Phillips. Thank you.” She went in search of Sherrie.

  He wasn’t surprised she had organized the staff to paint the room. The staff rallied around her because she was a natural leader. She was flustered by his suggestion to finish off the painting with him on Saturday. He had lightheartedly called it a date, but that’s what he wanted it to be. Since the trip to Maple Tree Farm, Sir Duncan had not made an official appearance. It was time for Sir Duncan to polish up his armor and woo Lady Meara once more.

  Meara’s heart raced. He was suggesting they meet alone. She wondered what it would be like to kiss him. Her face blazed red, remembering she had hugged him and he had returned her embrace. She wondered what it would be like to make love with him. She shook her head clear. She was being foolish, she needed to concentrate.

  She found Sherrie and explained the plan. Over the next few days, they cleared the walls of old posters, craft projects and books. Once this was done, Meara and Sherrie covered the trim and moulding with painter’s tape. By Friday afternoon, the room was ready for its transformation.

  The library closed at five o’clock. Lucy, Joe, Sherrie, Dave, Tom and Duncan all reported to Meara. They stood expectantly, waiting for her to tell them what to do. They looked excited to be in the library after hours, even if it was for painting. Meara looked at her friends and smiled.

  “Thank you everyone for being here. I appreciate your help. And thank you, Mr. Phillips, for agreeing to this crazy project. I have a confession to make. I’ve never done much painting, so I’m not sure how we should do it. Any suggestions?”

  “It doesn’t have to be perfect. Tell us what we should do and we’ll do it. We can always touch up later,” said Sherrie. “None of us are paint experts anyway.”

  “We should work on the biggest wall first. I need a person up the ladder, people to use the rollers, and people to use the paintbrushes. I also need someone to be in charge of giving out paint and refilling people’s trays. Who wants to do what?”

  “I thought she said she didn’t know what she was doing?” asked Tom. “She’s good at bossing people around.”

  “Tom! You can be such a doofus sometimes,” said Lucy. “Meara’s got it all figured out, people, so let’s go.”

  “Like knows like,” Tom muttered, but everyone heard him.

  The group erupted in laughter. They were about to start painting when Meara threw up her hands. Everyone froze.

  “Wait! I promised pizza. I don’t want anyone working on an empty stomach. Do you want me to call?” asked Meara.

  Sherrie said, “I’m not hungry. I’d rather paint first. If this doesn’t take too long, we can go out for pizza.”

  “Is everyone sure?” Meara asked. “Then let’s get to it.”

  Duncan stood next to Meara, both of them using rollers. She strained to reach the top of the wall. He ran his roller above her head. The first time he did this, she looked at him quizzically. He smiled. The second time he did it, she furrowed her eyebrows. He grinned sheepishly. By the third time, she was annoyed. He shrugged, flashing an innocent grin. She melted, letting him paint the top of the wall when she couldn’t reach.

  The group attacked the walls. Tom was happier than a toddler, mixing and refilling paint trays. They slowly worked their way around the room. Within a short time, all the walls were painted. They stood back and marveled at their progress. They were further ahead than Meara had anticipated. The walls were completely painted in green and already drying. She wanted to start on the window trim and mouldings, but she would let the group decide.

  “It looks great! Thanks everyone! Are you ready for pizza?” asked Meara. “Anyone want to call it a night?”

  “Heck, no!” said Tom. “Now that the walls are out of the way, we’re in the home stretch. And it’s only been an hour. I know I don’t have the biggest job, but I’m still game.”

  “I’m fine too. What’s next, Miss Meara?” asked Duncan.

  There were plenty of windows and moulding to paint. Meara had the group attack one wall at a time. In the next hour, the hardworking little group finished three walls with the cream paint. Everyone noticed Duncan and Meara working together, looking for spots needing green paint touch ups. All the cream painting was done except for one window up high. Meara knew the others were getting tired. She would wait and paint the window herself tomorrow.

  “Pizza, anyone?” asked
Meara.

  The group was ready to quit. Pizza was the last thing on their minds. They silently conspired to give Duncan and Meara time alone.

  “Miss Meara, it’s been fun. I want to enjoy the peace and quiet while the wife is away,” Tom said solemnly. “I’d like to remember being a bachelor, even for a few hours.”

  “We’re going over to a friend’s house for game night,” said Sherrie. “Can we do it some other time?”

  “And I should get this old guy home before he turns into a pumpkin. It’s past his bedtime, the old geezer,” said Lucy affectionately.

  “Honey, I’m standing right here,” Joe said, rolling his eyes. “It’s really because she wants to go skinny dipping by moonlight.”

  “Joe! You’ve been hanging out with Tom too much,” Lucy said.

  Everyone laughed. Tom, Sherrie, Dave, Lucy and Joe headed for the doors. Duncan turned to Meara.

  “Miss Meara, if you wait, I’ll walk you out,” said Duncan, sadly. “I’ll come back in fifteen minutes.”

  “I’d like that, Mr. Phillips. I’ll get my stuff.”

  With all the painting done, there was no reason for Duncan to be alone with Meara tomorrow. Sighing, he went to lock up his office. He would offer to take her out to dinner. He had a feeling she would find an excuse not to go. Meara stared at the last unfinished window. She tried to convince herself she would come back tomorrow. That wasn’t good enough. She couldn’t leave it unpainted. She dragged the ladder over to the window. She reached the top without stretching. If she hurried, he would never know. She finished the top and both sides quickly. She started on the bottom of the window.

  “Miss Meara! What are you doing?” he asked, astonished to see her up the ladder with a paintbrush in her hand.

  “Mr. Phillips, I couldn’t leave this window unpainted. It would bother me all night. I’m sorry, I’m holding you up. I’ll stop.”

  “No, I was only surprised. The unfinished window would bother me too. You’re almost done. Finish it. I’ll hold the ladder.”

  “Thanks. I can’t believe we got it all done so quickly. Everyone was wonderful. I wish they would have let me get them pizza,” she rambled, the butterflies swarming in her stomach. “There, that should do it.”