Glenda's Miracle

Glenda’s

MIRACLE

J. A. CUMMINGS

AuthorHouse™

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© 2013 by J. A. Cummings. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 04/22/2013

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4232-0 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4231-3 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4230-6 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013906917

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CONTENTS

Overdose

Drug Rehabilitation/Moving On

Glenda’s Unusual Job Interview

Glenda’s New Beginning

Adriane’s News

Glenda’s First Heartbreak

The Search For Sarah

Sarah And Charles—Their Beginning

Surprise Visit

Charles Breaks The News

Sarah Meets Glenda

Sarah Makes Amends

Charles’ Surprise Proposal

Family Outing

Big Green Eyes

Reverend Hamilton Meets Green Eyes

Confusion

Man To Man

Job Offer

Getting Acquainted

Extended Lunch Break

Supplies For The Troops

Sleepless Night

Dinner For Two

Decisions

Disappointment

Jeff’s Hospitalization

Back Home

Glenda Re-Visits Denver

Confrontation

Making The Decision

Dinner Announcement

Mother/Daughter Talk

Planning The Trip To Great Falls

Preparing For A New Job

The Trip To Great Falls

Packing Up The Apartment

Love Emerges

Planning The Ceremony

Wedding Day

The Honeymoon

The Visit With Jeff’s Parents

Coming Home

Moving Into Jeff’s House

Back To Work

Discussing Finances

Yard Work

The Reception

The Reverend And Mrs. Hamilton

Glenda Gets Established

A Late Night Emergency

The Funeral

Confined Quarters

Menopausal?

Charles Jeffrey Crowe, Jr.

Josh’s Interview

New Evidence

The Investigation

Locating The Missing Tape

Confidential Dinner Discussion

Reopening The Case

Glenda’s Secret Investigation

Conrad Makes His Move

Replacing The Tape

Law At A Snail’s Pace

Sarah’s Wake-Up Call

Getting Malinda Settled

Sarah’s Breakdown

Other Books by J.A. Cummings

Forever And A Day

Thank You

Writing has become a passion in my life and I want to thank those who support me in this process. Thank you to my readers for taking the time to read the words I have written and, once again, thank you to my sister, Joy, for her editing skills.

OVERDOSE

She was transported by ambulance to Livingston Memorial Hospital after being found unconscious on a downtown sidewalk. The paramedic running alongside the gurney in the hospital emergency area breathlessly gave her vitals and explained she had overdosed but didn’t know on what. Once she was moved to a bed in a cubicle, doctors and nurses were all around her, rechecking her vital signs and hooking her up to various monitoring devices. They didn’t know who she was as she didn’t have any ID on her and the paramedic said the name he was given by a homeless bystander was Glenda Evans.

When are these kids going to learn that drugs are not the way, one doctor said, irritated.

Look again, a nurse said, this one is not a kid.

The paramedic confirmed Glenda to be an adult who had been on the streets for quite some time, the information given to him.

Let’s do a complete blood count and a blood tox screen to see if we can figure out what the hell she’s been taking. I’m not sure we can save this one. If, by some miracle, we can get her stabilized, she needs to be life-flighted to St. Peter’s in Helena. We don’t know what internal damage she may have and we’re not equipped to deal with that. By the looks of her skin, I’ll bet she’s been doing some meth.

When the toxicology results were finally done, methamphetamine was the major drug detected in her blood with traces of cocaine and marijuana. Glenda was immediately given treatment to further stabilize her, the doctors very skeptical it would work and concerned that she would not survive more than a few hours. Miraculously she did stabilize after a few hours and the life-flight helicopter was notified.

Glenda had not been using meth very long. She had heard a great deal about it and had seen nothing but bad results from its use, more so than other drugs she had experimented with, but someone had given it to her without her being aware of what she was getting and, as is the case more often than not, she was hooked. This time, however, when Glenda injected the meth, there was the onset of the usual euphoria then everything went black. This has never happened before, she thought to herself before going unconscious and she began to feel panic but could not move.

She remained unconscious for several days as doctors worked to keep her stabile. At one point, she regained consciousness but was too weak to move, let alone open her eyes. She heard sounds around her but couldn’t identify them and then remembered everything going black after taking the meth. Suddenly she was overwhelmed with what she had been doing to herself the past twenty-five years and wondered how she had let this go on so long. It was crystal clear to her now that she had made a terrible mistake and how was she going to get out of it? She asked God for guidance and she heard someone say, I have a plan for you, Glenda. Have faith in me. Everything went black again.

When Glenda opened her eyes days later, she found herself hooked up to all kinds of monitors and IVs and a kindly-looking nurse taking her pulse.

Well, the nurse said, It’s about time you were waking up, and she smiled with relief.

Where am I? Glenda asked.

You’re at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, the nurse informed her. You were life-flighted here three days ago. Do you remember what happened to you?

Glenda turned red with embarrassment. I was taking drugs, she said quietly, then everything went black.

You overdosed, my dear, the nurse said. You are not supposed to be alive, but, by the grace of God… .

Oh my God! Glenda exclaimed. It is by the grace of God!

What do you mean, dear? the nurse asked with a puzzled look on her face.

Confusion overcame Glenda. She did not want to talk about what she had heard while unconscious until she could think about it and sort it all out. Perhaps it was the drugs and she had hallucinated. I don’t know, she whispered and closed her eyes as sleep overtook her.

The next time Glenda opened her eyes, she was alone but when she moved, an alarm went off and the same nurse came rushing into the room. You’re awake again, she said happily, and just on time for lunch. She raised Glenda’s bed and fluffed the pillow behind her.

I don’t think I can eat, Glenda said as she tried to hide her shaking hands. And yet she craved something sweet. She felt agitated and her body tremored as it always did when she needed a fix.

I know this is going to be difficult for you, dear, and I’ll give you something to ease your anxiety but you must try to eat something. We saved you from your drug overdose and I’m sure not going to lose you from starvation. If you don’t try to eat, we will have to feed you through a tube and you definitely won’t like that. So, what’s it going to be?

What’s for lunch? Glenda asked reluctantly.

That’s a good girl, the nurse said. I’ll be right back.

When the nurse returned, she administered medication for Glenda’s anxiety and when it had taken effect, a tray was brought in and placed on the stand next to Glenda’s bed. The smell made her nauseous so she closed her eyes and took two deep breaths through her mouth. I’ve got to do this, she said to herself and opened her eyes, only to see broth and Jell-O before her. Wow, a gourmet meal, Glenda uttered and her nurse laughed.

So you do have a sense of humor, her nurse said cheerfully.

Glenda picked up the cup of broth and took a sip. Surprisingly it tasted pretty good and she continued to take small sips, much to the delight of her nurse, until it was gone.

How about some Jell-O, the nurse encouraged.

Glenda took the Jell-O and tasted it, then eagerly ate it. Adriane was once again delighted and when Glenda was finished, she removed the tray from the stand.

Glenda felt exhaustion overtake her but the nurse returned with a clipboard with papers attached and pulled a chair over to the bed and sat in it. Now, she said, seriously, you and I have some business to take care of. My name is Adriane McPhearson and I will be with you throughout your stay here. What is your full name, dear?

Glenda Sarah Evans, Glenda answered. I was born… . and she continued to give Adriane the information she was seeking, including a full health history, at least as much as she knew.

So, you are forty years old. How long have you been using? Adriane asked.

Since I was fifteen I think. It has been so long, I can’ remember.

That’s close enough, Adriane said as she made a notation. She then looked at Glenda and said, Twenty-five years of drug use and you’re not dead. That’s pretty remarkable. What I can’t figure out is why you don’t have more physical damage. You’re a very lucky woman. Do you know what drugs you have used over the years?

Glenda pondered what she had been asked then slowly listed some of the drugs she had used. Of course, marijuana, I have used a little heroin, never did LSD, but mostly used cocaine. Meth is a recent drug that was introduced to me without my knowledge and I immediately got hooked on it.

Do you know how long you have been on meth? Adriane asked.

Glenda closed her eyes and tried to think when it was that she had her first encounter. I think it was a month ago.

"Well, thank God it wasn’t longer. Do you use regular tobacco?

Yes, I have smoked since age fifteen too, Glenda said, looking puzzled.

Nicotine is another addictive drug Adriane said. We just want to make sure that we have a full picture of your health and all addictions. In fact, most drug users die from tobacco related diseases than their drug use.

Glenda shot a surprised look at Adriane. I had no idea. That is very interesting.

Adriane then proceeded to ask more details about her smoking history and about any alcohol use.

Would you like to get clean? Adriane asked.

Clean? Glenda said as if confused by the word.

Clean, as in free of all drug use and addiction, Adriane explained.

I wouldn’t know how to do that, Glenda said truthfully. I don’t have any money and my parents… . she stopped and tears filled her eyes. I can’t ask them for help, and the tears spilled onto her cheeks.

Adriane stood. You need to rest for a while, she said sympathetically and she lowered Glenda’s bed and placed her hand over Glenda’s. I’ll be back later and we can talk some more then. However, I will be right back with a nicotine patch to help you with those cravings for now. That will also help with your agitation.

Adriane left the room, returned with the patch, and applied it to Glenda’s upper arm, then went to the nurse’s station and sat down. She was approached by Dr. Moore, one of the hospitalists, who had been assigned to Glenda.

Adriane, I have been studying Glenda’s tox report again. Did you find out how long she’s been using?

She told me twenty-five years.

If that’s true I can’t figure out why she hasn’t had more damage from her drug use. Are you sure she said she’s been using for twenty-five years?

That’s what she told me, Adriane replied. She said she was fifteen when she started. She also said she has only been doing meth for a month. Her main drug of choice has been cocaine.

Even that doesn’t compute, Dr. Moore said, rubbing his chin. I have never seen anything like this. If I were a religious man, I’d say she is nothing short of a miracle with all the abuse she has done to her body over these past twenty-five years. She has minimal organ damage and all the tests we did for sexually transmitted diseases have come back negative. Very puzzling.

Well, Adriane said to him, maybe she is a miracle. Stranger things have happened in this hospital.

I want you, personally, to watch over her because I know how good you are with these kinds of cases. Let’s see if we can get her back on her feet, and hopefully into a rehab program. If she is ready and willing, she just might make it.

The next few days were rough ones for Glenda as her body reacted to the lack of drugs. Adriane stayed with her much of the time, trying to sooth Glenda with kind words and occasional doses of Desoxyn, a medication to help with her detox. Glenda was very uncomfortable, wanting meth, but because her addiction to it was short, the medication helped a great deal. She begged for cocaine, since she had used it for a much longer time, and became agitated and belligerent when Adriane refused her. But Adriane knew it wasn’t Glenda reacting, it was her addiction reacting, and she continued to stand by Glenda. After nearly a week of sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, and depression, from cocaine withdrawal, Glenda finally fell into a deep sleep and slept for nearly twenty-four hours. When she finally awoke, she was drenched in perspiration, and, for the first time, was famished. As usual, an alarm sounded when she moved and Adriane appeared.

Oh, my, she said when she saw how soaked in perspiration Glenda was. Looks like you get to take a shower while I have someone change your bed and we will order you something to eat. I’ll be right back with a wheelchair.

When Glenda was wheeled back to her room after her shower, feeling more refreshed than she had in a long time, and was helped back into bed, she was presented with a plate of scrambled eggs and two pieces of toast and a cup of tea. Glenda began to eat, savoring the taste of the eggs, taking small bites and eating slowly, once again much to Adriane’s delight. But Glenda couldn’t eat it all and as the tray was removed Glenda got sick and threw up all over herself. She was embarrassed but Adriane comforted her by saying, This is not unusual, dear. Believe me, I’ve seen a lot worse than this. We’ll try again later. Adriane removed Glenda’s nightgown and replaced it with a clean one and once Glenda was comfortable, Adriane sat by her once again.

You seem to be feeling better, Adriane observed, and waited for a response from Glenda.

I do feel better, Glenda admitted. The shower felt like heaven.

Adriane leaned forward. I’m going to be real honest with you, Glenda, she said seriously. You cannot go back to the life you have been living all these years because eventually you will end up killing yourself. You were lucky this time. Since you have been here, you have gone through a lot of detox and you are well on your way to getting clean. It is not an easy task, nor a pleasant road, but it can be done. And I believe that if you really want it, you can do this.

Glenda was quiet for a time then said, I don’t know how I’m going to do that, Adriane, because I don’t have any money.

I’m going to ask you again, Glenda, do you want to get clean?

I don’t… .

And Adriane interrupted Glenda and said again, sternly, "The question is, Glenda, do you want to get clean?"

After a long silence, Glenda finally said, Yes, but how am I going to do that?

I know someone who can help you. If you are truly serious about this, money will not be a problem.

Glenda closed her eyes and then she remembered the words she heard when she was semi-conscious, I have a plan for you, and a serene calmness engulfed her. She opened her eyes. I am truly serious, she said and Adriane could see the sincerity in her eyes.

Good, Adriane said, patting Glenda’s hand. Now, you get some rest and I will get the ball rolling.

Two days later Adriane appeared and sat, once again, next to Glenda’s bed. We are going to fly to the Lakeview Health Systems Center for addiction treatment in Jacksonville, Florida, later today where you will be admitted for treatment. It has a nationally accredited treatment program. I will stay with you the first week, and then I have to come back here. You will be evaluated to determine your length of stay and once you are discharged you will come and stay with me until we can get you settled into a job and your own place.

That’s very generous of you, Adriane, but it’s asking an awful lot of you, Glenda pointed out. "Getting a job will be difficult because I never finished school and I don’t have any work experience in anything."

We’ll cross that bridge when it is time, Adriane said. First things, first.

It was a long and tiring plane ride to Jacksonville and by the time Glenda was admitted into the treatment center, she was exhausted. After getting settled into her room, she went to bed and fell into a deep sleep.

DRUG REHABILITATION/MOVING ON

It was determined that Glenda would have a lengthy stay at Lakeview because of the psychological damage done to her over the past twenty-five years. She spent an hour every day in counseling and three times a week in group therapy. Adriane visited Glenda once a month to see how she was progressing and found she was progressing remarkably well and she was granted permission to enter a GED program to get her high school equivalency diploma. Much to everyone’s surprise, she scored exceptionally high on her tests and because of her remarkable progress with rehab, she was allowed to enter a college program to earn an Associate’s Degree in Business. She worked constantly on her classes and was awarded her degree only a week before she was released from Lakeview.

She surprised herself as well with her obsession to learn and the fact that she enjoyed it. But she wondered where this insatiable curiosity had come from.

While at Lakeview, she had also taken the time, daily, to visit the chapel that they had there and to walk the grounds, admiring the beautiful gardens and trees, admiring the changes of the seasons. Remembering her spiritual encounter with God, she was drawn to have daily spiritual moments alone. After several weeks, she realized that her renewed strength came from this inexplicable connection she felt spiritually. It never failed to amaze her that when she would struggle with issues, then find her faith again and let the struggle go, her inner calm emerged with a deep sense of peace and contentment.

Glenda stayed at Lakeview a year. Her therapy with her psychiatrist moved very slowly because of the deep seeded guilt Glenda had due to the hurt she had caused her parents, her drug use, and promiscuity, and having to give up her daughter, Sarah. Facing these issues was extremely painful for Glenda. During the latter months she was able to open up and talk to Adriane about her past twenty-five years and it seemed to help her heal and come to terms with her sordid and unhappy life.

During her stay at Lakeview, Glenda was befriended by a young man Spencer Hughes, Spence as his friends called him, who was a drug addict that had been arrested for identity fraud. He was an expert in hacking into people’s computer records and cleaning out their bank accounts. After completing his rehab, he would spend many years in prison for his fraudulent acts. He enjoyed talking with Glenda and when he had developed a trust in her, he told her what he had done and he told her how he hacked into other people’s records. Glenda was fascinated and, as time went on, she had access to computers and Spence showed her how he did it. She certainly had no intentions of ever using this knowledge for her own gain because she had more ethics than that and certainly didn’t want to jeopardize her reputation at this stage of the game, but it was interesting to see how law breakers worked to get what they wanted. What Glenda didn’t know at the time was that she would use that skill later.

Everyone at Lakeview saw Glenda develop into a poised, attractive woman, and when it came time for her release, if one didn’t know she had been a drug addict, they never would have been able to guess. A few weeks before leaving, she spent a number of sessions with her therapist talking about how she was going to handle herself as a free woman. The therapist was concerned about her ability to stay away from drugs and her relationships with other people outside of Lakeview, especially those with men. Glenda reassured him she would never go back to using—he hoped she wouldn’t—and he was cautiously optimistic because of her sincerity when discussing the matter. As for relationships, she felt she could handle them with the exception of those with men. She still didn’t trust men so, as a part of the agreement to release her, her therapist mandated that she continue her therapy, at least once a week, when she got back to Montana. He expressed this to Adriane when she came to get Glenda when they met for the last time, Glenda given last-minute instructions. She said her goodbyes to her family at Lakeview, tearfully, and when she walked out the door, she took a deep breath and never looked back.

On the plane ride back to Helena, Adriane broached the subject of job hunting and Glenda told Adriane she wanted to move to Great Falls if she could find a job there. Adriane promised Glenda that once they got to Adriane’s home and got settled in, Glenda could get on the internet and begin looking for secretarial positions in Great Falls.

Glenda was shocked when they drove up to Adriane’s upscale townhouse in Helena. The inside was decorated lavishly and after Adriane showed Glenda the guest room where she would be staying, and after Glenda had unpacked and put her things away, she joined Adriane in the dining room for tea. Glenda spoke first.

So, Adriane, I think I’m getting a clearer picture now.

A clearer picture of what? Adriane asked with a gleam in her eye.

You are my fairy Godmother, aren’t you?

So you have finally figured it out have you, Adriane said, chuckling.

I will never be able to pay you back, Adriane. And it’s not just the money, it’s also the time and friendship you have invested in me.

I don’t expect repayment other than you staying clean and making your life what you want it to be.

You don’t have to worry yourself about that because I have no desire to go back down that road. What I want to know is why you felt compelled to help me.

I think you might be ready to hear that story now, Glenda. Before my husband died, we lost our daughter to an overdose of drugs. Her story is similar to yours—she ran away from home after getting mixed up with the wrong crowd. I guess she thought they could give her something we couldn’t. But her life ended at age seventeen. Nothing my husband and I did could change her. We had her in rehab twice but once she was released, back to her friends she would go to the same addicted lifestyle. My husband and I were so consumed with grief that we both buried ourselves in our work to ease our pain. He never got over her death, he loved her so much, and three years ago he had a massive heart attack. He left me very well off, as you can see, but all the money in the world cannot replace your loved ones. I continue to work because I love what I do and when you came to us, I saw the potential in you and I just knew that if you were ready to change your life, I could help you. And it has been very cathartic and rewarding for me, seeing you get well, seeing you grow, and seeing you become successful in your new life.

Well, I can’t tell you how grateful I am to have you as my friend and mentor and I can promise you, I will never disappoint you.

Adriane continued to mentor Glenda as she looked for a job, teaching her grace, respect, responsibility, kindness, and compassion.

Glenda had been looking for employment for nearly a month when, one Sunday, she saw the ad for a secretary in a law firm in Great Falls. She showed it to Adriane who encouraged her to call them first thing Monday morning. She did just that and she was told to write a letter of application, mail it to them, and they would call her if they decided to interview her. This was Glenda’s first disappointment—when she heard the word if. She talked to Adriane about the phone call.

Don’t let this get you down, Glenda, Adriane said, trying to comfort her. Life is full of disappointments and failures but its how we deal with these that builds our character. And it is not unusual for prospective employers to handle their application processes this way with all applicants so try not to take it personally. She smiled at Glenda and patted her shoulder. Having said that, what do you want to do about this?

Glenda looked at Adriane and got a big grin on her face. I need to go to Great Falls, she announced.

Okay then, let’s get packed and go.

GLENDA’S UNUSUAL JOB INTERVIEW

Glenda walked into the law firm Tuesday morning with a folder in hand containing a letter of application, her GED certificate, her college transcript, and three letters of reference she had been given before leaving rehab. She announced to the receptionist who she was and why she was there. The receptionist asked Glenda to be seated and left, returning shortly after and ushered her into a large, plush office, obviously belonging to one of the attorneys, and introduced her to a short, stocky-built, but well-dressed Attorney, Leonard Stratton. They shook hands, he presented Glenda with a glass of ice water, and invited her to sit down in one of the two armed leather chairs in front of his desk while he went around the desk and sat in his chair across from her.

The receptionist said she talked to you yesterday, Miss Evans, about the secretarial opening in our firm. Since you were in Helena, she instructed you to mail us a letter of application. He paused and grinned. Obviously you’re very interested in this job to have traveled all that way to see us today. Do you have your letter with you?

Yes, I do, Glenda said, poised, as she handed Mr. Stratton a file folder.

Leonard Stratton took the folder, already impressed with Glenda’s determination and professionalism, not to mention her professional-looking attire. He read the letter of application, set it down, and looked at Glenda. Physically she was a perfect fit for the law firm, nicely dressed in a taupe suit with a dark green paisley scarf at her neck which accented her eyes. She was attractive with lines of gray peeking through the auburn hair. Her green eyes were mesmerizing. He finally spoke. Everything I’ve seen so far is very impressive, but I’m a little nervous about your drug addiction history, although I’m also very impressed at your openness about it. Tell me about that.

Glenda synopsized her twenty-five years of drug addiction with confidence, never wavering and also talked about her treatment, emphasizing the support system she had in place to help her stay drug free. Leonard Stratton was impressed with her educational journey while in rehab and how driven she was. He looked at her transcripts in the folder.

This is all very impressive, Leonard complimented her, but I would like three letters of recommendation… .

Excuse me, Mr. Stratton, Glenda interrupted him, but if you look under the transcripts, the letters are there.

Leonard found the letters and read them.

Do you have some samples of your work, he said. Letters, reports or anything similar?

Yes, they are also in the folder. She replied. You will see that I am well versed in all Microsoft Office programs. I enjoy composing correspondence, working with Excel spreadsheets, and I use Outlook very effectively. I enjoy talking to the public. I think you will find that I am very organized and see my role, as an assistant, to keep my boss organized and the office running efficiently.

When he had finished reviewing all the materials, he put everything on his desk and folded his hands on his stomach as he leaned back in his chair. It was like watching, in slow motion, as the chair kept going back, and back, and back until Leonard and the chair fell over backwards. Glenda jumped up and went around the desk only to see Leonard in the chair, struggling to get up but couldn’t.

Are you okay? Glenda asked as she kneeled next to him and was at a complete loss as what to do to help him.

This damned chair! Leonard exclaimed. This is the second time this week this has happened.

Seeing Leonard was physically alright, the humor of the situation hit her and she began laughing. I’m so sorry, she said but she had the giggles and she couldn’t stop laughing, try as she may. She put her hand up motioning for him to bear with her, then to her mouth, and the more she tried not to laugh, the funnier the situation seemed and the harder she laughed. Tears were streaming down her face. Leonard watched her in shock but her laughter was so infectious he, too, began laughing, and the two, on the floor, laughed uncontrollably, Glenda not having laughed like that in she didn’t know how long. She finally stood and said, Don’t go anywhere… . and realizing the absurdity of her comment only caused her to laugh more. As if he could go anywhere! She went to the door, tried her best to compose herself and opened it and went directly to his secretary’s desk. We need some help in Mr. Stratton’s office, she whispered and turned quickly, heading back into the office, Mr. Stratton’s secretary directly behind her. When they entered the office, the secretary looked around, confused, because she didn’t see Mr. Stratton. Glenda motioned for the secretary to follow her behind the desk and when she saw Leonard Stratton trapped in the chair, she grinned and put her hands on her hips. Do you think you might want to get a new chair now, Leonard? She walked around him. You, she said to Glenda, grab that side, I’ll get this side and we’ll upright him. So each woman grabbed the top of the chair and easily uprighted it. Leonard quickly stood.

Thank you, ladies, he said as he smoothed his suit and excused his secretary. He took Glenda by the arm and guided her back to the front of the desk where they both sat in the leather chairs, side by side. He reached over the desk and picked up the letters of recommendation, cleared his throat, and said, Now, let’s try to continue this interview with some sort of dignity. You come with stellar recommendations, he said, looking quite impressed, and Glenda was pleased with his reaction. However, I do have just one question for you. How do I know you won’t go back to using drugs?

You don’t know, Glenda said confidently, "but I do know that is not going to happen."

Twenty-five years of use and only one year clean isn’t a very good guarantee, Leonard said and Glenda could see he was going to play a little hard ball. She stood her ground.

I have had good mentors and people who have really cared about me this past year. I worked hard in rehab to get my education and I’m not about to let all that go down the drain now. You have no way of knowing what I might do other than I can give you my word. It has been a long, hard struggle and I don’t want to go through that again.

Well, then, do you have any questions for me? and Glenda asked away. They talked more about the job, in detail, and asked what the expectations were of the person in this position. They also talked about salary, benefits including retirement, and the firms working hours. Glenda wanted to know about the financial stability of the firm, and how long had the firm been in operation. Once all her questions were answered, she expressed to him her desire to work there and told him she thought she would be an added asset to the firm.

You’re pretty confident for someone who has no experience, Leonard stated, but not unkindly. He was impressed by it.

That’s because I am confident, Glenda stated with a slight grin and a gleam in her eye.

Leonard liked her courage and self-confidence. I’m going to go out on a limb on this one, Leonard said, looking Glenda straight in the eyes. I’m going to offer you the job, but on a probationary status. I’m going to turn you over to my secretary to do some on-the-job training for the first two weeks, with pay of course, and your probation period will be six months. If, after that time, you have established yourself in our firm as a viable, dependable worker, you will be hired on a permanent basis. Fair enough?

Glenda was overwhelmed. Fair enough, she said calmly smiling. On the inside she was screaming with excitement! She followed his lead by standing and shaking his hand. When do I start? she then asked.

I guess you will need time to find a place to live, so given that you can do that, how about next Monday.

Perfect, Glenda said happily. I’ll see you then.

Glenda walked out of the office with Leonard, she continuing on out of the building, he stopping at his secretary’s desk. I hope I just didn’t make the worst mistake of my life, he said to her as he watched Glenda exit the building.

Glenda walked around the corner to the side of the building and stopped. Her knees were shaking and she felt like she could faint. She leaned up against the wall and then it hit her. She had just landed her first job! She was becoming a productive member of society. Her thoughts were interrupted by the ring of her cell phone. It was Adriane asking how the interview went and Glenda told her she got the job. Adriane told her to stay put and she would pick her up and they would go to lunch to celebrate.

The two women were seated for lunch at a nearby restaurant and Glenda excitedly told Adriane all the details about the interview. When she started telling about Leonard falling backwards in his chair, she got the giggles again and when she finally related the whole story, she, as well as Adriane, broke into laughter all over again, tears streaming down Glenda’s face once again. But they soon were interrupted by a male voice clearing his throat and saying, I take it, Miss Evans, I am the brunt of your laughter, and Glenda abruptly stopped laughing and dabbed her face with her napkin when she saw Leonard standing next to her. She quickly stood, red with embarrassment. Oh, God, she said, I’m so sorry, Mr. Stratton.

No need to apologize. I think we both agree it was quite humorous and no harm was done. Do you mind if I join you and your friend? he asked as he seated himself.

Not at all, Glenda said, watching Adriane to make sure it was alright and she nodded her approval. Glenda went on to introduce the two. This is Adriane McPhearson. Adriane, Leonard Stratton.

How do you do, Mr. Stratton, Adriane said, extending her hand. It’s a pleasure to meet you.

Likewise, Leonard said, and please, call me Leonard. So, Adriane, Glenda told me briefly how you’ve helped her and it looks like you’ve done a very good job. Of course, Glenda told you she will be on probation the first six months but I’m pretty confident she’ll be a permanent employee at that time. It takes a very ambitious and dedicated person to accomplish what Glenda did in just a year. However, we are going to have to talk about what goes on in the firm, stays in the firm, and he looked at Glenda and chuckled. She was sure he was enjoying seeing her squirm.

Well, if you don’t mind me saying, Adriane said, Glenda is a very special person.

I agree totally, Leonard chimed in.

The waitress brought a glass of water and set it in front of Leonard. Do you know what you want, Mr. Stratton, or would you like a menu?

Sherry, I believe I’ll have the chicken Caesar salad and make sure I get these young ladies’ check, also.

There’s no need for that, Mr. Stratton, Adriane protested but Leonard insisted.

They made small talk until Leonard’s salad was delivered and then he said to Adriane, So, Adriane, I understand you live in Helena?

Yes, that’s correct, Adriane answered Leonard.

Well, it just so happens I’m going to be in Helena next weekend. Perhaps you and your husband would have dinner with me. You could tell me more about our new employee, Glenda, and he said it in a way as if Glenda couldn’t hear him. He grinned.

Adriane grinned back at Leonard and said, First of all, I never talk about my friends to strangers. Secondly, I have been a widow for a number of years, and thirdly, I have out-of-town company coming next weekend. Her out-of-town company was Glenda which she intentionally did not tell him because she wasn’t interested in having dinner with him.

Well, perhaps another time then, he said.

He asked Adrianne about her husband and she told him how he had died.

I’m truly sorry, Leonard said, laying his fork down. I know how hard it is losing a loved one. I lost my wife eight years ago in a tragic automobile accident.

Adriane could see the pain in Leonard’s eyes and immediately felt guilty for putting him off. I’m sorry for your loss, she said.

The two talked about their losses and how they coped while Glenda sat and listened with interest and amusement, not interrupting.

Leonard looked at his watch, took his napkin and wiped his mouth, then placed it on the table. Well, this has been very pleasant, ladies he said, standing, but I have to be in court in an hour so I will leave you two.

Thank you for lunch, Adriane said as Leonard handed her his business card.

My pleasure, Leonard answered back. When you’re in town and would like to take me up on my dinner offer, it stands open, by the way. Just give me a call. Glenda, I will see you Monday morning and I can guarantee you I will have a new chair in my office. And, if you don’t mind, let’s keep that little incident our secret. After all, I do have an image to live up to. He chuckled, turned, and left.

Once Leonard was safely out of the restaurant, Glenda looked at Adriane and said, He was hitting on you, Adriane! and she laughed, raising her eyebrows.

Yes, Adriane agreed, and not very subtly either.

Why didn’t you take him up on his offer?

Mainly because I’m not interested in getting into a relationship, Adriane answered, matter of fact, and certainly not with your new employer.

But he only asked you to dinner, Glenda reminded Adriane. How do you know he’s looking to get into a relationship if you don’t get to know him better? Maybe he just wants a little companionship.

Adriane laughed. Glenda, he’s a man and usually they want to wine you, dine you, and then bed you. I’m not interested in that.

Still, Adriane, you don’t really know that, and all this coming from a woman who definitely had no interest in men.

I’m ninety-five percent sure, Adriane said and Glenda decided to drop the subject. Adriane continued with, We need to find you an apartment, get it furnished, get you some work clothes, and what about a car? The look on Glenda’s face caused Adriane to burst into laughter. You hadn’t thought of all those things had you? she asked, still laughing.

No, but how am I going to do that without any money! Glenda exclaimed.

Oh, this is the part I like best, Adriane said, glowing. I’m your fairy Godmother, remember?

No, I can’t let you do this, Adriane. You’ve already done more than you needed.

You can’t refuse your fairy Godmother, Adriane stated. And without any money, you can’t get the job done by yourself. If it will make you feel better, I will front you the money and you can pay me back as you are able to do so. Now, let’s get a paper and start looking for an apartment.

GLENDA’S NEW BEGINNING

Adriane insisted Glenda rent the two-bedroom apartment not far from where she worked. And it was the apartment Glenda liked the best of all those she looked at. It had a large master bedroom with an adjoining bathroom and was roomy with an open kitchen/dining room, living room. The guest room and bathroom were down a hall at the opposite end of the apartment. It had been newly renovated with fresh paint on the walls, an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. As expected, it had to be furnished and Adriane, once again, insisted on paying for furniture. Glenda finally relented, but Adriane had to agree to Glenda’s compromise of purchasing mid-priced furniture and just the bare necessities. Once cooking and eating utensils were purchased, as well as bedding and all other basic household needs, Adriane announced that she was turning her car over to Glenda and she was flying home, but not before she took Glenda to the bank and opened up a checking account, putting $5,000 in the account to get Glenda started. Glenda was now on her own.

During the week, Adriane checked out psychiatrists in the Great Falls area and came across a very reputable woman, Dr. Karen Derringer. Adriane told Glenda about her and Glenda made an appointment to have an initial interview with Dr. Derringer and found her to be exceptionally comfortable to be with. Glenda didn’t feel intimidated by her and felt she could benefit a great deal from this woman so Dr. Derringer welcomed her and took down information to get Glenda’s records from Lakeview and told Glenda she would contact her psychiatrist there. She told Glenda she would call her as soon as she had gone over her case, set up an appointment, and they would go from there.

At the airport, while waiting for Adriane to board her plane, Glenda said to her, I can’t tell you how grateful I am and how appreciative I am for all you have done for me. I don’t know how I will ever repay you.

You have told me this many times, Glenda, and I will tell you again, I don’t want you to repay me, at least not monetarily. What you can do is continue to live a clean life and be happy and successful.

I’ll do my best, Glenda said and she hugged Adriane. I promise I won’t disappoint you.

I know you won’t.

And, I do insist on paying you back for the money you have invested in me. No arguments. I’ll see you next weekend.

Glenda told Adriane she would drive to Helena after work Friday to get the rest of her belongings. They hugged affectionately and Adriane boarded her plane for home.

Monday morning when Glenda walked into the law firm, she was warmly greeted by the receptionist who escorted her to Leonard Stratton’s secretary.

Glenda, the receptionist said, my name is Kasandra and this is Marcella Jones, Mr. Stratton’s secretary. She will be training you.

How do you do, Glenda greeted Marcella, grinning. We meet again. May I call you Marcella?

By all means, Marcella said standing and grinning back at Glenda, they both remembering what had happened a week ago in Leonard’s office. We are all on a first-name basis, Leonard included.

It’s a pleasure meeting you both, Glenda said sincerely.

I have to get back to my desk, Kasandra said as she hurried away.

Before we get started, Marcella said, I have something to show you.

Marcella showed Glenda where her work station was and alongside her desk was a chair with a pink ribbon tied around the back with a note saying, A souvenir for you, Glenda. Glenda burst into laughter, along with Marcella, and she immediately knew she was going to love working here.

Much to Marcella’s surprise, Glenda learned quickly and didn’t have to be told twice. She was bright, and by the end of her first week she showed her potential with suggestions in office management that would make the firm operate more efficiently. The suggestions were well received and implemented with Glenda in charge and she earned the unofficial title of office manager.

The first week of work flew by and Friday night Glenda drove to Helena. She couldn’t wait to tell Adriane about her first week at work. Saturday she packed up her belongings and put them in the car, then insisted on taking Adriane to dinner, only to run into Leonard who was dining alone. He was in Helena on business, helping a colleague with a difficult law case.

They two women spotted him when they walked into the restaurant and Adriane quickly and quietly expressed to Glenda that she would rather not dine with him so they tried to have the hostess discreetly seat them in an area away from him. But he saw them before they could get to their table and they ended up joining him to keep from appearing rude. Adriane didn’t want to jeopardize Glenda’s job.

So good to see you, Adriane. Leonard stood and held a chair for her while Glenda went ahead and seated herself. She wished she could have excused herself and just driven back to Great Falls but Leonard did his best to make her feel comfortable. This must be your weekend company, he chuckled, nodding to Glenda, and Adriane did not try to make any excuses because she didn’t feel she was obligated to.

Yes, she agreed with him.

Well, Glenda, Leonard said to her, although I didn’t get to see you much this past week, my secretary tells me you’re practically our office manager already.

I hope that’s not a bad observance, Glenda said, modestly. It’s not my intention to take over anyone else’s job.

Not at all, Glenda. Your suggestions have helped immensely. Leonard looked at Adriane. She’s going to work out very well it looks like, he said and Glenda nodded her approval. He continued to sing her praises until the waitress came to the table to take their order.

Glenda pushed her chair away from the table and stood. You know, I think I’m going to go back to your place, Adriane, Glenda said. It has been a busy week and a busy day with packing and all. I’m not very hungry and I think I’ll just go soak in a hot tub and turn in early.

Oh, no, Glenda. Stay and dine with us, Adriane begged, but Glenda said no. Leonard also stood.

Perhaps I was too presumptuous asking you both to join me, he said.

Not at all, Glenda said quickly. You two have a nice dinner and I’ll see you later, Adriane.

Adriane looked at Glenda with that I’ll get you for this look while handing her the car keys but said no more. Glenda insisted Leonard sit back down and she made a graceful exit. When she got into the car she chuckled to herself and breathed a sigh of relief. She drove to Adriane’s and drew herself a hot bath, as she had promised Adriane she was going to do, and relished the quiet. When she went to bed at 11:00, Adriane wasn’t home yet.

After Glenda left, Adriane and Leonard ordered dinner. While Leonard talked about himself, his work, his deceased wife, she began to see him for the first time. Although he was only five foot eleven inches, he seemed taller, even though he was somewhat overweight. He was dressed in an expensive, tailored suit made to fit his stocky torso and she realized he was not at all unattractive with bright blue eyes. Perhaps, she thought, it was the wine as she sipped her third glass. He was in his early sixties, bald on top with silver hair around the lower half of his head, neatly trimmed, as were his manicured fingernails. She could see he had a great sense of humor as he talked about his first meeting with Glenda and ended up laughing again as he related the infamous fall in his office. She came to the conclusion that perhaps it was time to let her hair down and see where this was going. Leonard must have sensed the change in her as he leaned forward and said, Would you even remotely consider coming to my room tonight? he asked, saying it in a way a non-condescending tone.

I have to be perfectly honest with you, Leonard, I’m not looking for a relationship. I was married to a wonderful man and it took me a long time to come to grips with his death.

I understand perfectly, Leonard said with such compassion that Adriane knew he understood. He took her hand in his and she felt the chemistry between them. And I certainly don’t want you doing anything you’re uncomfortable… .

No, Adriane interrupted and, surprisingly, she heard herself saying, maybe it’s time for me to finally let go of my losses. I’ll go to your room and we’ll see where this takes us.

Leonard called for the bill, paid it, helped Adriane on with her coat, and they left.

When the two entered Leonard’s hotel suite, it was, to Adrian’s surprise, an upscale suite, expensively furnished and comfortably designed. There was no noticeable evidence of a bedroom which Adriane immediately liked. This way things could progress naturally. Leonard helped Adriane remove her coat and he laid it carefully across a chair, then removed his suit jacket, tie, and rolled up the sleeves of his white shirt as he went to the bar and poured them both a glass of wine. Adriane sat on the couch and Leonard joined her, handing her a glass.

Here’s to the beginning of a great friendship, he said and they touched glasses and drank. Adriane put her glass on the coffee table and totally caught Leonard off guard by saying, Kiss me, Leonard. If this was going to turn out badly, she wanted to know right away. She didn’t want to waste a lot of their time. No beating around the bush.

Leonard moved over to her, put a hand on her face and looked into her eyes. He moved his head closer to her and then found her lips. It was a soft, open mouth kiss, and he moved his hand to the back of her neck, not forcing her to continue kissing him for he didn’t have to. She put her hand on the back of his head and she began to feel urges she hadn’t felt since her husband died. He slowly moved his hand down her shoulder and to her breast, reaching inside her blouse and then her bra, she not resisting and she let out a moan. Leonard pulled away from her, stood, and taking her hand, he led her to the bedroom. He took it slow, making love to Adriane with care and great respect, making sure to give her great pleasure. She responded in ways that even surprised her. It was wonderful knowing that she still was able to feel such intense desire and she was pleased with his sensitivity to her feelings. When they were done, Adriane felt as if she had been transported to another place—she had no regrets. They fell asleep peacefully nestled together.

The next morning Adriane woke to the smell of fresh coffee. Gosh, it smells good, she thought to herself. She stretched out in the bed she and Leonard had made love in the previous night and smiled to herself, her body feeling so satisfied, and she reveled in that feeling. She arose, slipped on a hotel robe, and emerged from the bedroom to find Leonard sitting at the table drinking coffee and going through e-mail on his smartphone.

Good morning, she said.

He smiled, looked up and said, Indeed it is!

Leonard stood and poured her a cup of coffee. Handing it to her he asked, So where do we go from here?

Last night was wonderful, Leonard, Adriane said, but I would like to keep our relationship as it is for now. I’m really not wanting more than that. I think when you’re in town you can call if you still want to see me and I’ll do the same when I’m in Great Falls. No strings.

And I agree, last night was wonderful, Leonard confirmed, feeling some disappointment. But he didn’t want to dissolve the relationship and agreed to Adriane’s terms. Yes, I do want to continue seeing you when we can arrange it.

And so they both agreed the relationship would continue in this manner for the time being.

Adriane dressed, called for a cab, and as she was leaving, Leonard kissed her sweetly, wishing her a good day. See you soon, he said.

Yes, see you soon, she replied.

When Adriane got home, Glenda was packing the rest of her belongings in the car. Coffee was made and she and Adriane sat at the dining room table.

So I take it, Leonard wined you, dined you, and bedded you, Glenda said with amusement in her voice, using Adriane’s exact words from the weekend before.

Yes, he did, Adriane agreed. And actually I don’t need to justify my actions to you but I will tell you I haven’t had sex since my husband died and it felt great. I had almost forgotten how good it was, she said dreamily. But, she said suddenly, returning to reality, we’re going to keep it like it is—dinner and sex—whenever we can. No other strings attached, or expectations. It works for both of us right now.

Well, alright then, Glenda said, laughing. That’s something.

Glenda let Adriane make her lunch before she headed back up to Great Falls. She invited Adriane to come to Great Falls any time she wanted and Adriane made the same invitation to Glenda. As it