Page 87 of A New Year In The Presidential Suite

“I did meet them and spent time with them,” said Lori. “I met a lot of people and saw a bit of Napa. As I said, it was a much needed, little getaway. How about you? Dating anyone new?”

“Now that you ask, I met up with one of our classmates, Brian McArthur. Remember him?” asked Cara. “He was sort of small and wore glasses back then. You should see him now. Tall and handsome and hunky. We hit it off. I’m seeing him next weekend.”

“That’s exciting news,” said Lori with genuine enthusiasm. She’d been worried about leaving her best friend if she and Griff decided to move forward with their relationship.

“Anyway, welcome back,” said Cara. “The kiddos will be happy to see you as we all will.”

Lori ended the call excited how things might be happening for her friend.

###

The next morning, Lori went into work early hoping to find a few free moments with Janie Sherwood. As owner of Bright Beginnings, she was sometimes difficult to find alone.

When Janie saw her, she beamed at Lori and hurried over to give her a long hug. “Welcome back. We missed you! Did you have a nice time?”

“I had a fabulous time, but I missed being with the kids when I had time to think about them.”

Janie studied her. “You look wonderful, tanned and relaxed. I’m glad you took this week off. Now, let’s get to work. As usual, this time of year, parents are already wondering about our summer programs.”

“Are you planning to be open as usual or do something else?” asked Lori.

“I think it’s smart to open a special summer day camp for kids 5 to 7 years old. What do you think?” Janie asked her.

“That age group could use a chance to get out and be with others during the summer months. I know our mothers will be thrilled with the idea,” Lori said.

“I want you to take charge of the program,” said Janie. “Will you do it?”

Lori looked down at the ground and then faced Janie. “I can’t make that commitment until I clear up an unexpected situation.”

“Want to tell me about it?” asked Janie.

Lori shook her head. “At the moment, I can’t. It’s out of my hands.”

“Hm-m-m.” Janie focused on her. “Okay, but don’t leave it for too long.”

The other teachers and kids started to arrive, and the day began in a flurry of activity.

When the children ran to her for hugs, Lori’s eyes filled. She loved these kids who filled her days. It would be hard to leave them.

###

The next ten days flew by during the day and dragged on and on each night. Lori began to believe that the time with Griff was nothing more than friendship like before.

One late afternoon, Lori had just diapered a baby when Cara came rushing into the nursery. “Quick, Lori! There’s someone here to see you. Give me the baby and go to the front entry.”

Cara took the baby from her and gave Lori a gentle push out of the room.

Lori’s thoughts were spinning.

When she got to the front entrance, she gasped at the sight of Griffin. “What are you doing here?” she asked, hating the breathiness, the uncertainty of her voice.

“We need to talk,” Griff answered.

Shocked by the look of determination on his face, she said, “Okay. Follow me.”

She led him outside onto the sweeping front porch and over to an area at the side of the house. “We’ll have privacy here.”

They stood facing one another uneasily.