Chapter 38

John called Sheila the next day. Checking that her schedule could be open. She assured him that it would be. He gave her the name of the helicopter service to schedule to meet her flight. If she’d fax her schedule to him he’d arrange to fly out earlier.

“I’d really love to see you.” she said.

“I’m convinced this is the best way.” John said.

“If you say so. Okay, how did it go with the girls?” Sheila asked.

“Couldn’t be better.” John assured her.

“Sure you want me to come?” she asked.

“Positive.” he replied.

“Okay ... you’ve got me.” Sheila told him.

“Not yet, but I’m working on it.” he said ... hanging up.

Sheila sat staring out the window at the San Francisco skyline. The phone still in her hand.

“Mr. Wonderful?” her secretary asked.

She seemed to come around, hanging up the phone. She nodded.

“So are you going to tell me about it, or not? How is it going?” Judy asked.

“Great. I just have to spend a week with his girlfriends, then he’s mine.” Sheila said.

Judy looked at her like she was insane.

“No joke.” Sheila told her, “They’re going to be my bosses. I’ll get to ride herd over two over sexed, adorable young women who worship him and don’t have a clue about business.”

“You want to do this on purpose?” Judy asked, stepping behind her and rubbing her shoulders.

“Fact is that I’m itching in my britches to get started.” Sheila mused.

“Maybe I could cure that itchy part.” Judy said, her hands roaming down Sheila’s chest.

“How about tonight.” Sheila said, heading off Judy’s advance with her hands.

“As you wish... “ Judy said, sashaying out of the office.

“Just a sec. I need you to re-schedule my appointments for week from next. Better squeeze them in next week. I’m not so sure I’ll be back.” Sheila told her.

“You got it. I think you’re crazy.” Judy said.

“Crazy like a fox.” Sheila told her, turning to her work. She knew that Judy was more than a bit envious and downright curious, but she wasn’t about to tell her more ... It would be ... unethical.

Unethical ... The word hung in her mind, startling her. It made her want to run and hide...

“Oh, no. This is your shot at the brass ring ... only it’s golden. Don’t you dare blow it just because you’re scared.” she said to herself, trembling a bit.

“Did you say something?” asked Judy, sticking her head in the door.

Sheila shook her head.

“No, but while you’re here, get me my travel agent.” Sheila said.

“Coming right up.” Judy said, ducking out the door again.