by Iris Bolling
Devin loved the sight of her. That's why he hadn't left for work. He had been sitting there wanting to kiss her, but didn't want to wake her. "I've never seen anyone smile the entire time they were asleep."
"How would you know?"
"I watched you. All night."
"Do I snore?"
"No. You do hog the bed," he smiled as he stood. "I have a nine am appointment. Breakfast is in the oven and coffee is ready."
"I don't get a good morning kiss?"
"No,...I will not make it out this door if I do that." He smiled. "I needed to see that before I left."
"See what?"
"The essence of Ruby Marie with that after glow from a night of love making."
"You can pat yourself on the back. You left your mark."
"I'd rather pat your back. Have dinner with me tonight at TJ's?"
"Okay," Ruby blushed.
Devin took his suit jacket off the hanger. "I'll pick you up around seven." He was walking out the door when he yelled back. "Your cell phone has been buzzing for the last hour.
"Okay," Ruby ran to the hallway wrapped in the sheet then looked into the foyer below. "Is it okay if I shower before I leave?"
Devin was putting on his long dress coat when he looked up at her. "I would prefer you stay just as you are. But if you have to, I put a toothbrush, washcloth and towel on the vanity. The spare key is in your purse. Make yourself at home."
"My place after dinner?"
"It's a date." Devin smiled then walked out the door.
Ruby stared at the door for a while, then began really looking at his place. "Wow, this is really nice." Not wanting to wear out her welcome, Ruby walked back in the room, took a shower then ventured back downstairs. She was walking towards the kitchen when she heard her phone buzz. Changing directions, she picked up her purse from the sofa and retrieved her phone. "Hello."
"Ruby, are you all right?"
"Hi, Dad," she sat on the edge of the sofa and smiled. "I'm fine. Why?"
"Your mother was concerned."
"Oh Dad," she sighed. "You and Mom need to stop worrying. What are you doing up? Don't you have to work tonight?"
"I'm going to bed now that I've spoken to you. Call your mother."
"I will. Love you."
"Love you too."
Devin walked in singing. "Good morning Mrs. Tally."
"Good morning to you sir." She followed him into the office. "You nine am is waiting."
"Did you have a good holiday?"
Mrs. Tally paused, somewhat surprised by the question. "I did."
"So did I." He hung up his coat. "Thank you. What else do we have today? Anything major?"
"A few in-house. I can reschedule them if need be."
"The need is a be." He laughed aloud.
"All righty then," Mrs. Tally laughed. "Enjoyed your holiday I take it?"
"We should have more holidays."
"You're the boss, make it happen. I'll send your nine am in."
Devin laughed. "Do that and I'll see about those extra holidays."
There was a light knock on the door. "Good morning Mr. Upton. May I come in?"
"Good morning Cameron, please do."
The young woman walked in and took a seat in front of his desk. "Thank you for seeing me on such short notice."
"Any time." He could sense she was nervous. "What would you like to discuss?"
"Sir, I was wondering if it is possible for my position to be transferred to Aaron's House. I spoke with Ruby and one of the main functions she wants in place is an employment mentorship program. That's where we would take each recipient into the Aaron's House program and place them in training sessions to learn how to complete job applications, take standard tests, interviewing skills and how to dress for success. It's really a great program and I would like to be a part of that."
Devin nodded. "It sounds like a good program. You are one of the contenders for a director's position here at Upton. You're willing to give that up?"
"My husband and I talked about this over the holiday. I realize I'm altering my career path. But to be honest Mr. Upton, the people who will be residing at Aaron's House need me. I think I could be of assistance to Ruby as well."
"You like Ruby?"
"Oh yes, I do."
He nodded. "You know I no longer have the final say at Aaron's House. But I will speak with my mother regarding your request on a temporary basis. I think it would be counter productive for you to withdraw from the director's position."
"Thank you, Sir," Cameron stood.
Tania walked into her office knowing she had to keep Jeremy satisfied until she could get him the job. She checked the directory for the warehouse to see who she had to contact to have supplies sent out. She didn't want to go to the person in-charge of the warehouse. That might bring too many questions. She went through the personnel records to see if anyone had been written up for anything she could hold over their head. Less than an hour into her search, she found two. Deciding to go with the most recent offender, she made the call requesting the items on the list from Jeremy, be mailed out. She gave the young man the address and indicated it should be sent before close of business. Eager to please, the young man confirmed the order and indicated he would get on it right away.
Breathing a little easier now, all she had to do was let the guilt trip she put on Devin at dinner a few nights ago play its way out. As Assistant Director, she felt it would give Jeremy a culprit to blame if anything went awry. She turned on her computer to check her emails. There was one from Miranda stating they were reviving the Christmas party. It would be held in the community center at Aaron's House. This would give the employees at Upton the opportunity to witness the late Mr. Upton's dream come to life. In addition, a new employee incentive program entitled, "Red Slippers" would be initiated. She was encouraging all department heads to nominate an employee within their department for the coveted Red Slippers. She explained further that the selected employee would be granted one wish. The cost of the wish could not exceed $12,000. In addition to bragging rights, they would get to house the encased Red Slippers at their desk for a year. After which time, they would be awarded to a new recipient. The message came with the prettiest red diamond studded heels with a bow on the back.
"Nice presentation," Tania thought. "Who would have thought the old woman had it in her?" then she looked at the bottom of the message and saw, ‘flyer designed by Ruby Lassiter, Director of Aaron's House.’ Tania frowned. "Haven't officially started the position and rubbing elbows with the old lady." She huffed. "Don't get too comfortable Ruby. Your days are numbered."
Her desk phone rang. "Upton Investments, Tania Reid."
"Tania, will you step into my office for a moment."
"Of course, Devin." She hung up the phone thinking he must have made a decision regarding the Director's position. She stepped into the hall way just as Cameron walked by.
"Cameron," Tania stopped her. "What are you doing here? I thought you were working at Aaron's House."
"Good morning. I'm sure Mr. Upton will bring you up to date on things. Have a good day."
Tania watched as the woman stepped onto the elevator. Her steps towards the office were a little slower now. Could he have named Cameron to the position? She was definitely screwed if he did. Cameron was as by the book as they come. If she got the position, there would be no more favors. Jeremy could kiss all thoughts about the job good-bye and if he talked, so would she. With that, would go any chance of her breaking free of Jeremy.
"Good morning Tania," Mrs. Tally said as she smiled. "Go right in. Mr. Upton is waiting."
Tania took a deep breath, then walked into the office.
"Good morning Tania, thank you for coming. Have a seat."
"Good morning."
"I would like for you to continue in the role of Acting Human Resources Director for a few more months. I know this is not what you wanted to hear. However, it does give you a longer period of time to demonstra
te your abilities."
"I see." Tania inhaled. "You know I will do my best to ensure the progression of the company in whatever capacity you see fit."
"I appreciate that Tania."
She stood slowly. "Devin, I really am good at what I do."
"I believe you can be.” Devin sat back. "Our Human Resources Director needs to be fair and impartial. It calls for a bit of empathy with employees. One has to be willing to listen to the needs of others and act accordingly. I'm looking for an exceptional Director from who the employees feel their concerns will be addressed."
"If you don't think I'm that person, why am I still here?"
"I trust my father's judgment. He was considering you for the Director's position because he believed in you. I want to believe in you as well. But there's a side of you hidden from us. I need to know the person I'm placing over the livelihood of five hundred employees. With time, I believe you will trust us the way you trusted my father. However, the question remains. Are you worthy of our trust?"
"I am," she replied.
"You have six months to show me."
Tania knew he was right, but she was not going to trust him or anyone with her past. "I accept the challenge. I'll prove to you that I can be trusted. One more question. Do you want me to close out the Jeremy Claiborne file?"
"What are your thoughts?"
"We could offer him the Assistant Director's position. I'm certain Ms. Lassiter would welcome someone with his skill set."
"Okay" Devin nodded. "On Monday see to it that Ms. Lassiter receives his file. It will be up to her to consider Mr. Claiborne for the position."
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
Ruby pulled into her driveway and sighed. There were three vehicles parked there. She knew what was waiting for her inside. She laughed for this is exactly what she would have done if one of her sisters were out of touch for any period of time. "Suck it up." She laughed to herself as she walked up to her front door. The key wasn't necessary. The door swung open.
"Where have you been for the last twelve hours?" Phire, the youngest checked her watch as she glared at Ruby.
Ruby stepped inside and closed the door behind her. "You are letting my heat out."
"Oh, you got some heat all right," Opal nodded with her arms folded across her chest. "It's written all over your face."
"Let's everybody chill for a minute," Diamond stood from the kitchen table where she had been sitting.
"Yes, let's give the harlot a chance to speak," Pearl laughed.
"You still haven’t answered Phire's question," Jade added. "You don't have to. But was he good?"
Ruby had to laugh. This is the inquisition she had been a part of in their lives. It was her turn to take the heat and it felt good.
She put her purse on the table, then hung up her coat. She turned to see all five of her sisters’ eyes on her. She leaned against the corner entrance into her living room and smiled. "His name is Devin Upton and yes he is very good."
The women laughed, some awed, then another voice came from the kitchen. "You had sex with your father's boss?" Sally held a cup of tea in her hand when she looked around the corner with a raised eyebrow. "Devin Upton is the new CEO of Upton Investments. Your father runs the warehouse for them."
"Dad works at A&M Logistics," Phire corrected.
"I know where your father works. He's been there for thirty years."
"A&M logistics is owned by Upton Investments," Opal stated. "At one time they handled supplies for the company only, but when Upton began purchasing and renovating properties they started a warehouse division."
"And your father has been the only manager they have ever had," Sally stated. "Now when and where did you meet Devin?"
"Upton is the one sponsoring Aaron's House."
"The new job?" Pearl asked as she walked into the kitchen.
Phire turned to Ruby. "Did you have sex with Daddy's boss? Is that where you were last night?"
"Ya'll are freaking me out with the Daddy's boss thing," Jade stated as she sat in the lounge chair with her legs across the arm. "Let's call the man by his name."
"So did you sleep with him?" Phire had her hands on her hips tapping her foot.
All eyes, including Pearl, who was now standing behind Sally eating a bag of chips, were on Ruby.
She sighed. "Yes I did."
"Was he good?" Phire held an eyebrow up.
Sally smiled. "You can see it in her eyes." She sat the cup down. "It's not just sex, is it?" Sally put her arms around Ruby's shoulder.
Ruby looked into her mother's eyes, smiling as a tear fell from her eyes. She shook her head. "No."
"Aww Ruby," Diamond walked over and pulled her into a loving hug. "I'm so happy for you."
"It's a wonderful feeling, isn't it, girl?" Pearl now held a chicken leg in her hand. "Be careful, he will have you barefoot and pregnant once you tell him."
Opal laughed, "You better stop eating like that before you blow up."
Jade walked into the kitchen taking the chicken leg from Pearl as she passed by.
"Hey!" Pearl frowned.
Jade walked back in with an apple. "Eat that," she said to Pearl. "So when are you going to see him again?" she asked Ruby.
"Tonight," Ruby wiped the tear away. "I have no idea what I'm going to wear. He's only seen me in jeans or messed up one way or another."
"We need to go shopping?" Phire walked to the closet and started pulling out coats.
"Where is he taking you?" Jade asked as she took her coat from Phire and put it on.
"TJ's."
All action stopped as eyes landed on her again.
Pearl dropped the apple core in the trash then reached for her coat. "Oh, hell yes. We're going shopping. This one is on me."
"Who's driving?" Jade asked as she walked out the door.
"Everyone can fit in my car," Diamond said as she grabbed her purse and coat.
"I have dibs on the front seat," Opal called out.
"I'm the pregnant one," Pearl yelled, "I get the front seat."
That quickly, the once full living room was empty and only had Sally and Ruby remained standing in the same place.
"So does he feel the same way?"
Ruby started laughing and for some reason could not stop. Sally watched and marveled at the change in her oldest daughter. The look in Ruby's eyes brought tears to hers. It was wonderful to see love in her baby's eyes. She hugged her. "Okay, let's get you a knockout dress so you can really show off those nice legs of yours."
Ruby nodded, "It's funny having the shoe on the other foot," she said as she climbed the stairs to her bedroom.
"Yes it is," Sally called up the stairs, then said to herself. "You have no idea how much fun it's going to be." She put on her coat. "I'll meet you in the car."
Sally got into the back of the SUV.
"Where's Ruby?" Phire asked.
"She'll be right out, she's changing. Ladies, we are declaring this Ruby's coming out day. Any plans you had just got cancelled."
"I have a date with Grant," Opal declared.
"I thought he was just a friend," Jade questioned.
"He is a friend."
"I'm certain Grant will understand, this one time Opal," Diamond said with a smile. Just call him."
"While you are making calls," Sally added. "I want all your brothers here tonight before she goes out on her date."
"May I do the questions?" Pearl pleaded. "Oh, please.....allow me."
Everyone in the car was laughing when Ruby got in. "What's so funny?"
"Pearl stopped hating men long enough to get knocked up with twins."
Everyone in the car turned and glared. Phire shrugged. "I'm just saying."
Pearl stared at her mother in shock. It never occurred to her that she very well could have twins.
"Don't look at me like that." Sally laughed. "Twins do run in the family."
Jade and Opal raised their hands. "Double whammy."
Diamond watched the color
drain from Pearl’s face. "Pearl they are just teasing," she said as she touched her sister's arm. "I did not have twins."
"That's right," Pearl nodded then glared back at Phire for saying such a thing.
"Diamond is right," Phire nodded. "It could be triplets." She shrugged. "I'm just saying."
"Please start this car before Pearl has a conniption in here." Ruby turned to Phire. "One more word and I'm telling everyone what we talked about last week."
Phire slid down in her seat, "I'm glad you are getting some, maybe you will stop taking the fun out of everything."
The shopping trip was fun and a huge success, but Ruby was glad to have a minute alone. Submerged in her soaking tub, she smiled at the memories from the night before. She knew what her heart was telling her, but her mind wanted her to wait. Take some time. Get to know the man before she even thought about love. It had literally only been four days since she first saw Devin. Yet it felt as if he had been around all her life. Then last night, the way he made love to her...she closed her eyes to the memory of his touch, those fingers that caused her body to explode more than once. The way he kissed. Knowing when to be gentle and when to demand what he wanted. Just the thought of it was causing her body to shiver. Shaking off the desire to be with him again, she sat up and began washing. She wanted to have plenty of time for hair and make-up.
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
When Devin arrived at Ruby’s Condo he could not park in the driveway because there were so many cars there. He looked around to make sure he was at the right address and then walked to the front door. Before he could ring the doorbell, a man answered the door. Devin raised an eyebrow." Good evening, I'm looking for Ruby Lassiter."
"Are you Devin Upton?"
"I am. And you are?"
"Unimportant until you answer a few questions." The man stepped aside. "Come in."
Devin hesitated. The man was dressed in a suit and seemed to be presentable, however there was a menacing aura about him.
"You are here now, you might as well go all the way in."