Off The Clock (2 page)

“So for the auction next week, you’ll offer finger sandwiches and cocktails, and for the Jenson’s reception, bacon-wrapped scallops, stuffed mushrooms, and cream cheese puffs, along with the open bar. With chicken breasts, wild rice, and asparagus for the entrée.” Austin consulted his head chef over the menus. “What about the champagne?”

“It arrived the other day, just like Cara said it would. I think she’s got your vendors charmed, Mr. Harmon.” Chris Merchant smiled as he took the clipboard from Austin. “There’s even enough left for the upcoming Harvest Ball.”

“Yes, Cara told me he threw in some extra cases to make up for the fiasco last month.” Austin shook his head, remembering the screaming match between his then-assistant Leslie and the hostess of the party when it was discovered only one bottle of champagne was on the premises. “She’s becoming valuable. Have Carolyn and Janice been notified?” Jan, the afternoon bartender, wasn’t due to arrive for two more hours.

“I told Carolyn last night before she clocked out. She left you a copy of her order. Oh, that reminds me. Apparently, some of the golfers got a little rowdy and broke two bottles of scotch and a few glasses. The damage report should be on Cara’s desk.” Chris caught sight of the salad girl struggling with a heavy bowl and went to offer assistance.

Austin left the kitchen and wandered through the deserted dining room on his way back to his office. Cara’s coat was hung on the coat rack beside the door; good, she had arrived. “Cara?”

“Behind you.” Austin whirled around. Cara held two coffee cups. “Here,” she offered. “For being so patient with me yesterday.”

He took the steaming cup and raised his eyebrow. “How did you know?”

“You’re my boss,” she smiled. “It’s my job to notice little details like that.” She grinned impishly as she sipped hers. “Carolyn left a damage report on my desk. I’ll bill the parties involved in a few minutes. Do you want to read it first?”

Austin shook his head. “No, Chris told me about it a few moments ago. Did you call Grant last night?”

“Yes.” She moved around to him to her desk and sat down. “He agreed to look into everything.”

“That’s good. If you don’t mind my asking, Cara…” Austin sat down in one of the plush chairs lined up against the wall. “Is everything all right at home? You seemed panicked when I asked you to fill in as hostess the other night.”

Cara’s blue eyes widened. Placing her coffee cup on her desk, she picked up the damage report. “Everything is fine. I just had to make sure the dog was taken care of, since I wasn’t sure what time I’d be home.” A flush of pink crept above the collar of her white blouse and spread to her cheeks. “I really need to bill the members, and you have an appointment with Dr. and Mrs. Campbell in an hour. Their daughter wants to have her bridal shower as well as the rehearsal dinner here in the next few months. And Brian Vellinger called. He and Natalie made a reservation for dinner tonight and want you to join them. Maybe to talk about planning their wedding reception. ”

Austin stood up. “Thanks for the reminder. Brian proposed to Natalie about three months ago, so it’s about time they plan the event. I was beginning to worry they’d chosen another venue.” He moved around her desk to his own office and closed the door. Picking up the phone, he dialed Grant Coleman’s number.
Taking care of the dog, my ass! If she won’t tell me, then maybe Grant can.

“I can’t give you that information, Austin. That’s confidential.”

Austin sighed. “I forgot about that part. I just want to know what the mystery is.”

“Give her time; she’ll open up to you. Where’s that infamous Harmon charm of yours?”

“I think this one’s immune. That’s why I hired her, anyway.” Austin pinched the bridge of his nose. “After Leslie, I decided not to hire anyone who had a certain look in their eye when we first met. Cara seemed more concerned about the office than she was with me.”

“Cara’s a keeper, buddy. She’s the best thing that ever happened to Harmony House, with the exception of you opening it. Be her friend first. That’s my professional advice for now.”

“Yeah, yeah. That’s what everyone’s been saying. Maybe I should step down and put her in charge.”

Grant laughed and the two set a golf date.

* * * *

Cara worked steadily through the morning and was surprised when Austin joined her for lunch at the fast food restaurant down the street.

“I got a call from the senior class president over at St. Andrew’s, wanting to know if they could hold their Prom at Harmony House next May,” Austin told her before placing his order.

“Is the banquet hall large enough?” Cara paid for her food and picked up her tray.

“Oh, yes. It can hold up to four hundred people, easily. Go ahead. I’ll follow you.”

Cara found a sunny spot and removed her dark blue cloth coat, draping it over the yellow plastic chair. The temperatures continued to drop steadily; summer was definitely over. She looked up as Austin slid his tray across from hers.

“I also need a favor from you.” Austin unwrapped his sandwich and took a bite. “You know a week from tomorrow is the Harvest Ball. Would you be willing to attend with me?

You wouldn’t have to stay the entire time, just long enough to welcome everyone and for the first dance. This way you’ve got over a week to make arrangements for your dog.”

Cara gulped. Shelley’s family was planning to be in town and the nurse had already requested the night off.
I’ll have to call the Visiting Nurses; I can’t trust my brother!
“I’ll see what I can do. Thanks for the week’s notice.”

“No problem. So, tell me about this afterschool program. I found your memo buried under the menu sheets.”

“It’s for grades four through nine,” Cara explained. “The YMCA called, wanting to know if they could rent the gymnasium while theirs is being renovated. They would bus the kids, supervise them, and have the parents pick them up. All we’d have to do is provide a snack and bill them for any damages.”

Austin frowned. “And this would go on for how long?”

“Starting next month and going until April. They need a new roof and new bleachers.”

“Oh wait…that’s the one the tree fell on, isn’t it?” Austin leaned back in his chair and drummed his fingers on the table. “When we get back, I’ll make the call myself.”

“Good.” Cara finished eating her sandwich and wadded the wrapper into a ball. Standing, she shoved her arms into her coat sleeves and picked up her tray. “I’ll see you back at the office.”

“What’s the rush?” he asked. “Or is your boss that much of a slave-driver?”

She laughed. “No, he’s pretty easy to work for. I just have an errand to run before I dive into that stack of mail which always arrives on Thursdays.” Cara dumped her trash into the nearest bin and returned for her drink. “I won’t tell Chris we ate elsewhere today if you won’t.”

“I caught him going through the drive through at Taco Bell last week. Your secret’s safe with me.” Austin winked. “See you later.”

Once back in her car, Cara called home to check on her mother. Satisfied everything was normal, she made a quick trip into her favorite boutique to see about an appropriate dress for the Harvest Ball.

* * * *

Later that evening, Austin sat in his quiet living room, watching a baseball game as he relaxed with a beer. Would Cara find a way to back out of the ball? She seemed to enjoy his light-hearted banter. Would she return, or even acknowledge, his growing interest in her?
Time will tell…
Austin took another lazy sip of his beverage and tried to make sense of his dating choices.

Leslie was a mistake; I should have never gotten personally involved with her. So what do I do next? Hire Cara, who’s so damn quiet and efficient. Who knew it would be
Ryan
, of all people, to open my eyes to the fact she’s a knockout! But every attempt I make to spend time with her, she brushes off.
The new commercial for Harmony House aired and he squirmed, watching himself on the screen.

That wasn’t too bad, but I sound like I’m reading a script. I need to do better next time.
He drained his beer and stood up to get another one, his thoughts returning to his office manager.
Yeah, Cara’s got some family problems, like her idiot brother, but why doesn’t she get out more? The closer that clock gets to five, the antsier she is to leave. No one claims to know what she does after hours; Roxie says she called someone frequently at the fund-raiser, and kept her eye on the clock so she could leave right at ten. So what the hell is her story? I wish she’d talk to me!

Cara studied her reflection carefully. The emerald color of her ankle length evening gown brought out the green in her eyes. Around her neck was the diamond and emerald choker her mother had given her during a lucid moment earlier that day. She tugged the neckline up a bit more; it was cut lower than what she normally wore, and she wasn’t exactly comfortable with the small amount of cleavage on display.

The Visiting Nurses had sent over an engaging young woman named Doreen to relieve Shelley for the evening, and Cara had spent the afternoon going over her mother’s routine with her.
I hope everything goes smoothly tonight. I haven’t had a chance to dress up like this since the Winter Formal in college.

Cara picked up the tiny gold clutch purse and tucked her lipstick, some Kleenex, and her cell phone inside. Snapping it shut, she slid her feet into her black pumps and carefully made her way down the stairs to her mother’s room.

“Hi, Mama.” She entered the room as Doreen changed the television channel to Jeopardy. “I just wanted to let you know I was leaving, but I’ll be back in time to read to you.”

“Oh, you look lovely, Mandy! Is Karl here yet? I want a picture of you.” Rosalie struggled with the nightstand. “Where’s my camera? Dad just bought it for me last week.”

Cara’s heart sank. “Mama, it’s Cara, not Aunt Mandy. I’m going to the Harvest Ball tonight, remember? You loaned me your necklace.” She hurried to her mother’s side and picked up the small digital camera on the dresser. “Want Doreen to take a picture of you and I?”

Rosalie looked confused. “Manda, does Mom know you’re wearing her diamonds?”

“Yes, Mama. Now about that picture–”

“Why didn’t she give you the matching earrings? They’d look better than those little things.” Rosalie leaned back against the pillows as Doreen snapped the picture. “You can’t even tell you’re wearing them. And didn’t you tell me that Karl liked you with your hair down?”

Cara sighed and touched her upswept hair. “I’m trying something new. I love you, Mama.” She kissed the paper-thin cheek and turned to Doreen. “I’ve got my cell phone on, so if you need me, don’t hesitate to call.”

“You go and have a great time, Cara.” Doreen walked her to the bedroom door. “We’ll be fine.”

“I don’t know how long she’ll stay like this.” Cara chewed her lip. “Sometimes she snaps out of it, and sometimes it lasts all day. She thinks I’m her older sister Amanda, about to go out with my Uncle Karl.”

“Maybe the Jeopardy game will bring her around.” Doreen put her arm around her shoulders. “Go on and enjoy your evening. And put on some more lipstick. You just chewed it all off.”

“Thanks.” Cara tried to smile, then turned and retrieved her black dress coat from the closet. Grabbing her keys from the hook, she cast one last glance in the direction of the bedroom before leaving the house.

* * * *

Austin paced as he waited for her in the foyer, and offered his arm to her after she stowed her coat in the darkened office.

“You look beautiful. Why didn’t you let me pick you up?”

“Because it’s not a date.” Cara’s face turned pink as she linked her arm with his. “You needed a hostess, and I happened to be handy.”

“Here.” Austin paused beside the coat-check girl and took the tiny box handed to him. “I got you something.”

Cara’s eyes widened as she let go of his arm. “You got me orchids?” She set her purse on the counter and removed the white corsage from the clear container. “But I didn't...I mean...”

Austin took it from her and clumsily pinned the flower to her satin bodice, his knuckles briefly skimming her breast. “It’s all right. I always keep a fake one around.” He pointed to the white carnation adorning his black tuxedo lapel.

Cara blushed even redder. “Mr. Harmon.”

“Tonight, call me Austin, will you?” He cast a cocky, lopsided grin at her. “With the problems you’ve had with your brother in the last week, you deserve to have some fun. And I promise not to step on your toes for the obligatory first dance.” He offered his arm again and she took it as they moved into the banquet hall.

* * * *

Two hours later, Cara was thoroughly enjoying herself. The champagne and good food relaxed her, and several guests seemed to enjoy speaking with her as she explained the planned renovations and programs the facility was going to offer.

“I don’t know what you’re doing, but keep it up.” Austin’s deep voice murmured into her ear as he slid into the seat beside her. “The donations are pouring in and Ryan’s already asked if he can borrow you for one of his girlfriend’s fundraisers.”

She gasped. “What did you tell him?” Her feet were killing her, and she’d escaped to the table in order to take off her shoes and devour more of the stuffed mushroom appetizers.

“I told him to take it up with you during office hours.” Austin signaled a passing waiter who handed him another glass of champagne. “Oh, good, the band’s beginning to warm up. What’s your favorite slow song?”

“S-slow song?” Cara gulped. “What happened to starting with the fast ones, to get everyone off their feet?”

“I’ve got a confession.” Austin took another sip of his wine. “I can’t dance. But I do know how to safely hold a woman in my arms and sway to the music, or even propel her around the room.”

Cara laughed. “You can ‘propel a woman around the room’?” She quoted his words back to him. “I’m sorry Austin, it just strikes me as funny.”

“Go ahead, laugh at me.” Austin rolled his eyes and clasped his chest dramatically. “I love music, but it’s just my luck to have two left feet on the dance floor.”

“That’s okay. I have a confession too.” She leaned closer. “I’m not sure I can get my shoes back on.”

“See there? All the more reason to stay off the dance floor. But I must be seen on the floor at least once, so tell me your favorite slow song, and I’ll go up and request it.” He looked at her expectantly so Cara relented and told him. “Good. I like that one too. And don’t worry about your shoes. If you’ll look around, most of the other women are also barefoot.” Austin stood up and headed for the band.

Cara looked around. Sure enough, several women were padding around in their stockinged feet. A glance at her watch told her she needed to cut back on her alcohol intake, as she’d promised her mother she’d return in time to read to her. Although, given past experience, Rosalie would probably be still in the past and not even remember her daughter. But if Doreen was able to bring her out of it…

The band launched into a Beatles song, jolting Cara out of her reverie. As couples filled the dance floor, Austin returned and removed his tuxedo jacket.

“Finally I can loosen this damn thing.” Off came the tie, and he rolled up his shirt sleeves and unbuttoned the tight collar. “Shall I take off my shoes too?” His mischievous smile lit up his face.

“Oh no,” Cara laughed, shouting to be heard above the music. Her eyes took in the dark curls peeking out of his shirt. Austin Harmon was a handsome man, why had he chosen her to host this thing with him? He could probably have any woman he wanted. “I’m going to have to leave pretty soon, Austin.”

“I know. Can you hang on for thirty minutes? They said they’d play our song in a half hour.”

Our song
. It had a nice ring to it, and Cara’s breath caught when he said it.
Don’t be silly. He’s your boss, for God’s sake!

“Excuse me. Cara? Can I have this dance?”

Startled, Cara looked up into Grant Coleman’s silver eyes. “Where’s Marjorie?”

“Dancing with her friends. Mind if I steal her for a moment, Austin?”

“Only if you promise to bring her back,” Austin grinned.

Hesitantly, Cara stood up and mindful of her stocking-clad feet, followed Grant to the dance floor

* * * *

Austin watched her as she moved her body in time with the music. Grant turned her at one point and he saw her animated, glowing face. Something inside him twisted.
Damn it, why should I be jealous? She’s my assistant, after all. Yes, and it’s been a month since Leslie, and yet you haven’t even been on a date with anyone.

I just needed some time before jumping back into the dating pool.

Bullshit. You want to jump in that pool with Cara. Her skin felt so soft when you put that corsage on her…she felt something too, the way she blushed.

Stop it! Besides, she has to leave. Probably has another date lined up. She’s only twenty-six; the night is still young.

Yeah, and you were hoping the sight of you in your monkey suit would have her throwing herself at you, the way Leslie did last summer.

Get over yourself, Harmon! The lady’s not interested.
He continued to watch Cara dancing with Grant, and soon Grant’s fiancée Marjorie and her friends joined them. Other single men drifted over and Austin’s gut twisted when he saw two of the men jockeying for Cara’s attention. When the song ended, he saw her try to leave the dance floor, only to be pulled back by a third young man. Austin recognized him as the son of a congressman.

Austin downed his drink and stood up. One fast dance wasn’t going to kill him, and most of the men were simply standing still and watching the women. He headed toward the circle and insinuated himself as Cara’s partner.

Her eyes widened, and a big smile spread across her features.

“Thought you couldn’t dance?” she shouted in his ear.

“Please. You call this dancing? You’re doing all the moves, I’m just standing here.” He admired the way her dress swirled around her body as she moved, and noticed the modest swells of her breasts above the neckline. Austin had a sudden urge to dip his hands inside and see if they were as soft as he imagined. He felt his body responding and hoped it wasn’t noticeable. He was thrilled when Cara left the floor with him once the song was over.

“Want another?” he asked her as he signaled the waiter for another drink.

“Oh no. I’ve got to stop or I won’t be in any shape to drive. But I will take a glass of water.”

Austin turned back around in time to see her sneak a peek at her watch, and his heart sank.
What is with her obsession with time? Can’t she just relax and have some fun?
Aloud, he reminded her about their dance. “Can’t turn into a pumpkin just yet.”

Her cheeks turned pinker. “You mean that last one didn’t count?”

“Hardly. It’s a Harmony House tradition that the owner must take the floor with his date, and then announce the pledge total. So, see? You are my date.” Austin nearly choked on his own words, but took a drink of champagne instead. Whoa, he’d better get a grip on his emotions!

* * * *

Cara gaped at him, but recovered enough to thank the waiter for the water. Austin considered this a date? She turned her head away from him and tried to calm the rising panic. Yes, she found him attractive. Yes, she enjoyed the light banter, even borderline flirting with him in the last week. But as for an actual date…no, she didn’t have time for romance, much less with a man who was her boss!
Maybe the dress gave him the wrong impression? As soon as this ‘required dance’ is over, I’m leaving!

Cara heard the first strains of “The Reason” by Hoobastank begin, and saw Austin stand and hold out his hand. She faced him, bit her lip, and placed her tiny hand in his.

He led her to the center of the floor as most of the people on the floor left, leaving only a few couples. He held her at arm’s length for a few bars before moving closer to her. Cara stiffened when she felt the close contact with his torso at first, but relaxed as he began singing rather badly in her ear.

Cara giggled and sang back to him, looking down every so often at their feet.

“It’s okay,” he murmured. “I’ll just hold you like this.”

“You’re doing fine. Just, ah, don’t sing?”

“I’ll stop, but you keep on. You have a lovely voice.”

Cara laughed. “I’m glad someone thinks so.” She resumed singing the song, and at the end, she acted on impulse and pulled away from Austin, held his left hand and twirled under it.

Austin swept her back against his arm, tipping her backwards.

Breathless, Cara stared into his dark brown eyes and felt a change come over her. Here was a man whose quiet passion showed in his eyes, and maybe it was crazy, but when the band segued into the next song, she moved into his arms again.

“Shall I dip you again?” he teased, as the song was about to end.

“Sure.” She picked up her head and stepped back, waiting for the right musical cue. When Austin bent her over his arm and lifted her back up, Cara’s eyes met his as he bent his head for a brief kiss.

Startled, Cara backed away, holding her fingers to her lips. She retreated to the table while Austin took the stage to announce the final tally on the donations. It was more than anyone in the facility had hoped for, and she jumped when she heard Austin say her name.

“…and if it hadn’t been for Ms. Ziegler and her organizational skills, none of this would have happened. So here’s to you, Cara.” Austin raised his glass in a toast and gave the microphone back to the band.

He rejoined her. “Want to take a walk with me?”

“Yes. We need to talk.” She reached under the table for her shoes with one hand and grabbed her gold purse with the other. She brushed ahead of him and headed for the office area.

Austin captured her once inside the darkened office and swung her into his arms for another kiss. Her shoes hit the floor as she moaned, and felt his tongue slip past her teeth.

Cara struggled and tore her mouth from his. “Wait. This can’t be happening.”

“Why not? I’ve enjoyed the past two weeks of getting to know you. I’d like to get to know you a little better, that’s all.” Austin pulled her back and covered her mouth with his.

She hesitated a moment. How long had it been since her last kiss? It’d been two years since David had broken up with her, not understanding her responsibilities to her mother. With a muffled groan, Cara tossed her purse to the floor and twined her arms around his neck. Moisture pooled between her thighs as his tongue explored the corners of her mouth. She eagerly returned the kiss, and was rewarded when one of Austin’s hands slid upwards to palm her breast. Cara didn’t pull away; soon his cool fingers slid inside her bodice and nudged the lace of her bra aside. She moaned when he rolled the nipple between two fingers and pressed herself closer to him. Dimly in the background, she heard the vague tones of Bette Midler singing “Wind Beneath My Wings.”