Bought for Love(10)

“From what Emily tells me, you have worked for the shelter close to your home for years. I’d rather have someone managing this business that has a tie to the people. You can hire the staff you need to make it run efficiently, but a personal interest is something I’d demand in anyone taking over.”

Kim knew about the people needing these services better than anyone. The shelter she worked at now turned to her for help in securing charitable funding and other opportunities. I knew she wanted this, so I was a little unsure why she was being hesitant.

“There are so many people more qualified than I am.” Kim’s eyes glazed over the space in longing.

“I’ll be honest, Ms. Yates, if you don’t want to take this on, I’ll probably see what I can get for the building on the market. My schedule doesn’t allow me the time to learn everything I would need to know about running a social program.”

“Please don’t sell it!”

Jack didn’t know it, but he’d just sold her on taking the position. There was no way Kim could let an opportunity like this slip away from the people who needed it.

“I may not be the best choice for this position, but I’ll do my best to see that it helps the people it will serve.”

“Wonderful. I’d also like to have you and your sister take over the top floors for residence. I need someone that can dedicate themselves to making sure this non-profit runs smoothly.”

“You want us to live in the building?” The look of confusion on Kim’s face was priceless. Her mouth opened and no words were coming out. All I could think about was that we’d be living in paradise away from all the crime in our neighborhood.

“Yes. The top two floors are vacant and I don’t want to rent them out with a business being run downstairs. The last thing I need is a liability if renters take residence. Something like that would send my insurance premiums through the roof. Besides, having you here, means that someone is always protecting my interests.”

I don’t know who was more astounded, me or Kim. Not only was she going to do a job that fulfilled her need to help others, we were getting a new place to live in the process. Meeting Jack may very well have been the best thing that ever happened to either of us.

“We’ll have to work out some kind of agreement for rent.” Kim was nibbling on her lower lip, concentrating. She worked hard to get us off the welfare system, so taking a handout was not something she wanted to do again.

“Nonsense. It will be part of the incentive package. I take care of my employees, but I expect hard work in return. How soon will you be able to start?”

The wheels turned in Kim’s mind as she contemplated. “I need to give notice to the shelter, so at least two weeks.”

“That’s acceptable. There are some contracts and work related papers I’ll need to have drawn up, so that should give me plenty of time. Let me know what you need as far as moving, I’ll consider that part of the package since I am asking you to relocate.”

“I can’t thank you enough for this opportunity, Mr. Duncan. You have my word that I will do my very best in making this a fully functioning center.” Kim still seemed to be in awe. It was amazing how fast things were being arranged!

“Thank you, Ms. Yates. I think we’ll have a great working relationship.” Reaching into his pocket, he handed her a set of keys. “I need to get back to my office, but feel free to explore the residential area upstairs. I’ll have Dante drive back here after he’s dropped me off. You can move in anytime.”

They shook hands before he turned to me. “Tonight at seven, Emily?” He smiled at me and I could only nod. I was so overwhelmed by everything that just happened, I needed time for it to sink in. “I’ll see you then.” Lowering to place a chaste kiss on my cheek, he did just that before walking away.

Kim just stood there for a few moments after he left gazing around with wide eyes. “I feel like we’ve just stepped inside some fairytale.”

We both laughed, and I had to agree with her. Yesterday I was worried about how we were going to afford to eat, and now, we not only had a new place to live, but Kim had the job opportunity of a lifetime.

“Let’s go check out the upstairs.” I was so excited I could barely contain myself as we walked out of the enclosed office space into the hall. We had an elevator! How freaking cool was that?

We stepped in and got off on the second floor. A long hall with two single doors across from us met our eyes. Kim fumbled with the keys until she found the one that fit the lock, then we walked inside. The place was enormous and already furnished. When I say furnished, oh my goodness, I meant it!