Cute Girls

Rob idled the cruiser into the lagoon, searching out his friends. There were a couple of young girls, looking to be in their early twenties, floating on inflatable rafts. Not wearing their bikini tops, their breasts were exposed for everyone to see. Rob glanced at them but only for a second or two. A number of young men, wearing everything from swim trunks to Speedos, shouted off-color remarks and waved as we passed by them.

“Just ignore them.” Robbie asserted. “It’s the beer talking.”

I wasn’t taking their rude comments to heart, trying me best to shrug them off. A group of boaters, mostly women outnumbering men two to one, waved at us to pull in beside them. Robbie waved back at them, steering the cruiser towards their position. My feelings of being uncomfortable increased when I saw they looked to be in their mid-twenties, a good ten years younger than me.

One of the girls tossed me a line to tie off with. Her bountiful breasts nearly spilled out of her bikini top when she tossed the rope. Robbie cut the engines, while I tied the line to one of the cleats.

“Hey Rob!” A young man shouted, holding a beer bottle in each hand. “That the new babe?”

“Hey Glen!” Robbie responded. “Hope one of those beers is for me!”

We joined the young girl and guy on their boat, a nice looking pontoon boat with a canvas top for shade. Glen handed both of us cold beers without asking if we wanted one. I could tell he’d been drinking from the swagger in his step. He eyed me up and down like I was a juicy steak.

“Damn! She is fine!” The young man remarked with a grin. “She’s all you said she was!”

I was blushing, wondering what Robbie had told him about me. The young girl saddled up next to Robbie, blatantly reaching down and squeezing his cock.

“You taking care of business?” She laughed, grinning my way. “She looks like she could handle it!”

“Whoa! Hold on a minute!” Robbie exclaimed, sensing I was growing uncomfortable. “This is Valerie Marlowe. She’s the new owner of Thunder Bay. AND my new employer!”

“Oh….ok.” The young girls mumbled. “I didn’t mean to piss you off.”

“Why don’t you lie down on the couch and take a nap?” Glenn angrily suggested, pulling her away from Rob. “You’re making an ass of yourself!”

The young girl jerked free of Glen’s grasp, then sauntered off to the front of the pontoon boat.

“You’ll have to forgive her.” Glen grumbled, putting his arm around my waist. “She likes to mouth off when she’s been drinking.”

Before long we were joined by several other couples. The talk was casual, which helped me relax and have fun. The guys stole glances at every female onboard the boat, more so at me than any of the other women.

“You really think you can pull Thunder Bay out of the ditch?” One of the men asked. “Ole Frank’s got her buried pretty deep.”

“I’ve got too much money invested in the business not to make it successful.” I responded. “I hope to see it back on track by this time next year.”

“A year!” One of the women exclaimed. “You think you can sell that many houseboats in just a year?”

“With lots of promotion and the right financing, I plan to sell every houseboat we’ve got.” I answered, sounding somewhat boastful.

“Good Luck!” Glen exclaimed, handing me another beer. “The damn banks won’t go more than ten years on a houseboat and the bastards want ten to twelve percent interest to boot.”

“I’m knocking fifteen to twenty-thousand off each houseboat plus offering a twenty-five year loan at six percent interest.” I proclaimed. “That should bring in enough customers to dump the whole lot!”

“Sounds good but you’ve got to have damn good connections with a bank to be able to offer that kind of financing.” An attractive blonde in her early thirties remarked.

“I’ve got the connections.” I bragged. “All I’ve got to do is hook the potential buyers.”

“We’ve been interested in buying a houseboat for the past five years but we can’t afford the payments.” The woman’s husband avowed. “Coming up with the ten percent down payment makes it even harder to buy one.”

“I’ll go five percent down and finance the down payment on a signature loan if I have to.” I quickly responded. “I’m not going to let a buyer get away simply because he thinks he can’t afford it.”

“WOOHOO!” Glen shouted. “You must have good connections with a bank!”

“I need to recoup my investment so I’m going to be aggressive when it comes to selling off Thunder Bay’s inventory.” I declared, glancing over at Robbie. “I can’t afford to fail.”

“So, when you sell all the houseboats, what’re you gonna do next?” Another guy inquired, stepping towards me. “You gonna close down Thunder Bay once and for all?”

“I’m….I’m not sure.” I stammered, noticing the concerned look on Robbie’s face. “If the market’s still strong for houseboats, I may keep on building them. Otherwise, I’ll probably sell off the assets, including the real estate.”

“We’ve got one left to build.” Robbie spoke up. “She’s gonna be a hundred and ten foot long and twenty foot wide. The biggest and best Thunder Bay houseboat we’ve every built.”

“You know what they say. Size does matter!” A young woman in her late twenties smarted off. “Isn’t that right Rob?”

Robbie blushed, embarrassed by her remark. The others laughed, which added to Rob’s humiliation.

“It’s not the size that matters. It’s the quality that goes into it that matters.” I quickly remarked, wiping the smirk of the woman’s face.

“Sort of like Robbie.” I added, clasping his hand in mine. “With his help, I’m confident we’ll have lots of satisfied customers.”

“Hmmm. That alone would make a good salespitch.” The blonde woman laughed. “I’m ready to buy a houseboat if you’ll throw Robbie in on the deal.”

“Robbie’s not for sale.” I responded, pulling his hand behind my back. “I’m only selling houseboats.”

Robbie squeezed my hand, letting me know he liked what I’d said. I knew I’d made comments that I shouldn’t have but I wasn’t going to stand there and let his so-called friends make fun of him.

Thankfully the conversations turned to subjects other than boating. We spent the rest of the day in the lagoon, watching the people and enjoying each other’s company.

With the sun starting to set, we left the party revelers to return to the marina. Robbie had long since stopped drinking so he was sober enough to drive the boat. He didn’t say much as we cruised along the lake but I caught him glancing over at me several times with a smile on his face.

Back at the marina, Robbie guided the cruiser into its berth. I slipped the ropes over the cleats to secure it to the dock while Rob hoisted the cooler over the side.

“Helluva day!” He laughed.

“Yeah.” I muttered, helping him carry the heavy cooler. “I really like your friends, especially the little dark-haired girl that squeezed your dick.”

“That’s the way Beth is after she’s had a couple of beers.” Rob asserted, trying to calm my anger. “You oughta see her out on the dance floor. They don’t call her the Bone Breaker for nothin’.”

“Is that dancing in the vertical or horizontal position?” I retorted, glaring at him.

“GEEZ! I never took you for the jealous type!” Rob exclaimed. “Beth and I are history. She’s Glen’s girl now.”

“You dated her?” I asked, stunned at the news.

“More than just dated.” Robbie replied. “Beth’s my ex-wife.”

“YOUR EX-WIFE!” I shouted. “You were married to that slut!”

“Hey! She’s not a slut!” He countered. “Well….maybe just a little.”

“Yeah, right!” I thought. “Just a little bit of a slut. Sort of like being just a little bit pregnant.”

I couldn’t help but wonder how many of the girls I’d met at the lagoon had slept with Robbie.. I’d noticed a blonde-haired woman in her late twenties never took her eyes off him. Maybe she was just fanaticizing; then again maybe she was having a flashback.

“So. How many guys have you slept with?” Robbie questioned with a smirk. “Not counting me.”

At first I was reluctant to even let him know I’d heard him ask such a personal question but his staring at me was forcing the issue.

“Other than my ex-husband, just one other guy.” I finally answered. “And that was in college.”

“You’re still a rookie then!” Rob laughed, tossing the cooler into the bed of the pick-up.

“I’d rather be a rookie than a God Damn whore!” I exclaimed, slamming the tailgate shut. “Of course, you probably prefer your women the other way.”

“We’re arguing again.” Robbie declared. “I thought we weren’t going to do that.”

“Let’s just get going.” I suggested, walking towards the passenger side of the truck.

The drive back to Thunder Bay was short and quiet. Rob sensed I wasn’t happy with his outlook on extracurricular sexual activities but he knew better than to defend his moral attitudes at the moment.

After dropping me off at the houseboat facility, Rob drove off with saying so much as good-bye. I didn’t care if he was pissed off or not. If he wanted to fuck everything that walked that was his business. He’d probably have a fit if I shared his moral stance.

The following morning, I awoke to the sounds of rain hitting the roof of the houseboat. Dark clouds looming overhead didn’t offer much hope for a sunny day. After putting on a fresh pot of coffee, I sauntered into the master bathroom for a quick shower. Dressing in shorts and a tank top, I returned to the galley, dying for my first cup of coffee of the day.

Looking out, I saw Robbie unlocking the gates, then swinging them back to their latches. I knew he’d stop in to see me before going to work so I poured a cup of coffee for him. Rob drove his pick-up to the front of the building but proceeded inside. I assumed he was still mad so I wasn’t about to go after him.

With tons of work to do, I booted up my laptop. It was nearing noon when a fairly new Lexus sedan pulled into the sales lot. I recognized the couple as one I’d met the day before at the lagoon. Both in the mid-thirties, I couldn’t recall their names but the blonde I remember as the one eyeing Robbie.

Stepping out onto the front deck of the houseboat, I greeted them with a hello and a smile.

“Hey there!” The guy exclaimed, giving me a wave. “Thought we’d stop by and see just how serious you were about selling us a houseboat.”

“Come on up.” I responded, motioning them over. “I’ve still got some coffee left.”

The three of us sat at the diningroom table, sipping coffee and discussing one of the houseboats they’d looked at earlier in the year. They seemed sold on the houseboat, a 2000 Stardust, eighty-eight foot by sixteen foot. Priced at three-hundred thousand, they hoped to strike a deal if I was willing to offer them affordable financing and take their powerboat in on trade. I wasn’t sure what their boat was worth and I wasn’t about to accept their appraisal as fact.

Remembering Robbie was in the construction building, I thought about asking him but I was hesitant to approach him. One of the RV websites had a link to boat financing and appraisals so I decided to see what their figures were. I linked to the website to find out what the couple’s 2003 Baja 342 performance boat was worth. Looking at the high and low retail values, they averaged just under a hundred thousand dollars. I couldn’t give retail for the boat, knowing I have to mark it up some in order to make a profit on it.

“I’d be willing to give you ninety-thousand for your boat on trade-in.” I proclaimed, hoping they’d accept my offer.

I could tell by the disheartened look on their faces, they weren’t happy with my numbers but I wasn’t about to offer than any more. I listened to them tell me about how nice their Baja powerboat was, remembering seeing it at the lagoon. With a flashy paint job and twin engines, I had no doubt there was probably someone out there who would buy it. Still, I wasn’t budging off my offer, hoping they’d give in and agree to my terms.

“We owe eighty grand on our boat.” The man revealed. “That only gives us ten-thousand in equity.”

“You mentioned yesterday that it’d take five percent to make the down payment.” The man’s wife reminded me.

They hadn’t given up so that led me to believe they really were serious about buying the houseboat they wanted.

“I’ll discount the houseboat ten grand but not on paper.” I stated, coming up with an idea. “That’ll double your down payment.”

“How can you do that?” The woman asked, sounding confused.

“We’ll leave the price of the houseboat at three-hundred thousand dollars, at least on paper.” I detailed. “But I’ll actually sell you the houseboat for two-hundred and ninety thousand. That’ll give you ten grand in cash, so to speak and another ten grand in equity for your Baja.”

“Twenty-thousand.” The man affirmed with a grin. “That’s cool.”

“I can work the up the figures if you’d like me to.” I offered, knowing I had them on the hook. “I assume you’d like to go a twenty-five year loan at six percent interest.”

Their nods and grinning faces said yes so I proceeded to run the numbers.

“Eighteen-hundred and four dollars a month.” I stated, seeing the figures appear at the bottom of my calculations. “I’ll throw in a little more for your Baja to bring the payments to an even eighteen hundred.”

“Let’s run down and look at the houseboat before we decide.” The woman suggested. “We should check it out one more time.”

I figured they wanted to be alone so they could talk it over without my being around so I ran into Frank Martin’s cluttered office to get the keys for them.

“Sell the Thompsons that houseboat?” Rob shouted as I rushed past him.

“Not yet but I’m sure I will before the day’s over!” I replied, glancing back at him.

I waited patiently while the couple drove down to the marina to have another look at the houseboat they’d been wanting. Seeing they were driving a late model Lexus, I assumed their credit score was sufficient for me to secure financing with Centennial Bank.

I was sitting out on the front deck when they returned. The expression on their faces was all I needed to get the financing procedure underway.

“We’ll take it!” The woman shouted. “How soon can we take possession of her?”

“Let me contact my bank.” I replied. “I’ll have an answer within the hour.”

Filling out a brief credit application was all I needed to get the process started. The couple paced back and forth in the salon, anxious to get word if they were approved or not.

“How soon can you get your Baja in here?” I questioned.

“It’s parked at our hotel.” The man replied. “Probably thirty or forty minutes.”

“That’s about how long it’ll take me to get the loan papers faxed down to me.” I stated with a grin. “They’ll be ready for your signatures by the time you get back.”

“WE GOT IT!” The blonde screamed. “WE GOT THE HOUSEBOAT!”

I was as happy as they were. Knowing I’d sold one of the houseboats, even though I had to take their trade-in, was a start in the right direction. I phoned Rebecca, asking her to come out to Thunder Bay so she could show me how to fill out the purchase agreement and title papers. Since she was well versed with both procedures, the transaction would go quickly and smoothly.

“What’re you gonna do with the powerboat?” Robbie inquired, coming out to look it over with me.

“I plan on selling it of course!” I replied.

“Or….maybe I’ll keep it for myself.” I added, grinning. “I’d look pretty damn hot running around on it!”

Looking over at Rob, I saw him smirk, then smile. A sure sign he agreed with what I’d said.

Thunder off in the distance alerted us another storm was nearing the lake. Securing the boat cover on the Baja, we barely made it before the downpour started. Rob shut the overhead door on the building to keep the rain from blowing in.

“I need to run into town and pick up some groceries.” I asserted, when Robbie joined me on the houseboat. “I’m getting tired of fast food and eating out.”

“How about I go with you?” Rob asked. “Unless you’d rather I didn’t.”

“No, I don’t mind.” I answered, glad that he offered to join me.

At the supermarket in Somerset, we filled not one but two grocery carts. Rob eyed the cleaning supplies I put in the carts, coming to the conclusion I had definite plans for the rest of my stay.

“You planning a party?” I jested, watching the young man shoving several cases of Michelob Light Beer onto the bottom tray of one of the carts.

“I might be.” Robbie replied. “You think we should get some wine too?

“Get some Reunite and Sangria.” I responded, pointing to the wine selection at the end of the aisle.

It was mid-evening when we made it back to Thunder Bay. Pulling alongside the houseboat, we managed to get everything onboard without getting drenched.

“How about I fire up the gas grille and fix us some steaks?” Rob suggested, tossing two of them on the counter. “Unless you’d rather have burgers?”

“You….you cook?” I questioned, somewhat startled.

“I’d starve if I didn’t.” He laughed. “I can’t go that fast food stuff all the time.”

“Ok. I’ll fix some baked potatoes and work up a salad while you do the cooking.” I asserted.

The dinner was great, the steaks cooked to perfection. Dining out on the front deck of the houseboat, the rain changed from a downpour to a steady shower.

“How long before you have to go back to Chicago?” Robbie asked. “A month or so?”

“A month!” I exclaimed with a laugh. “Next week is more like it.”

“That doesn’t give me much time.” He muttered.

“Much time for what?” I questioned.

“Much time to change your mind about me.” Rob responded. “I hate having to keep my guard up around you, afraid I’ll say something and you’ll take it the wrong way. Afraid I’ll do something and you’ll run off again.”

“Nothing you say or do will change my doubts about you.” I proclaimed. “It’s best if we leave it at that.”

“So, there’s no chance the two of us will get together again?” Rob hinted, looking disheartened.

“Depends on what you consider getting together.” I responded. “Seriously, there’s no chance in hell.”

“What about….sexually?” He stammered. “Any chance?”

I didn’t answer his question, leaving him wondering. As for wanting to sleep with him again, I was more than willing. As for letting it develop into a serious relationship, I wasn’t about to ever let that happen. Robbie was too much of a player to ever convince me he could be trusted.

After dinner, Rob parked himself on the couch to watch a movie on the plasma TV. I jotted down a list of tasks that I wanted to tackle before I had to return to my job at the bank.

“We need to get some painters out here.” I affirmed, getting Robbie’s attention. “And some roofers too.”

“I’ve got some friends who’re looking for work.” Robbie stated. “You want me to call them?”

“Not unless they’re bonded and insured.” I replied. “The last thing I need is someone getting hurt and suing us.”

“What about getting the old crew back to help finish the houseboat?” Rob suggested. “I might be able to get talk some of them into coming back.”

“Yeah. That’s a good idea.” I agreed. “Offer them a two dollar an hour raise. That might persuade them a little.”

“Is the one in the shop gonna be the last Thunder Bay ever built?” Rob inquired, joining me at the diningroom table.

“I don’t know. It’s too early to say.” I answered. “Depends on how well sales go for the ones we’ve already got.”

“There’s another six hulls stacked up out back.” Rob reminded me. “The supplier’s refused to take them back.”

“We might have to sell them for scrap metal then.” I asserted. “We’ll have to wait and see.”

Robbie returned to his movie, coaxing me to join him on the couch. Pouring myself a glass of Sangria and opening a beer for Rob, the two of us snuggled up on the couch.

It was sometime after midnight when a loud clap of thunder literally shook the houseboat. It startled me at first, waking me from a sound sleep. Robbie was sound asleep, his strong arms holding me, my head resting in his lap. Lifting his arm gently to avoid waking him up, I managed to free myself. I switched off the television, then closed and locked the sliding glass doors that led out to the front deck.

Lighting up a cigarette, I debated whether to wake Robbie or leave him sleeping. I didn’t much care for the idea of him driving home late at night, especially in the pouring rain. I made the decision to leave him be, sleeping soundly on the couch.

Slipping out of my clothes, I opted to take a shower before climbing into bed. The warm water cascading over my body soothed my tired muscles and rejuvenated my senses. After toweling myself dry, I put on an oversize t-shirt and a pair of sexy black panties.

Returning to the livingroom, I checked on Robbie before going to bed. He was restless, slowing waking up.

“I’m going to bed.” I muttered. “You can stay the night if you want.”

“In the same bed?” He jested, staring at my crotch.

“That’s up to you.” I murmured, turning to head back to the master bedroom.

I knew he’d be right on my tail by the time I reached the bedroom, taking his clothes off along the way. Wearing nothing but his sexy white briefs, Robbie rushed up behind me, grasping me at the waist. His warm breath on the back of my neck was quickly replaced by his moist lips. Entering the bedroom, he lifted the t-shirt up over my head, tossing it on the floor.

I felt his rock-hard cock pressing against my butt, alerting me he was more than ready to have his way with me. Knowing he liked to be the dominant person when it came to lovemaking, I let him set the pace.

Tossing back the comforter on the queen-size bed, he pushed me face down onto the soft cotton sheets. I thought he was planning on ravaging me, taking me hard and fast until I passed out but Robbie had other thoughts in mind. Climbing onto the bed with me, I felt his calloused hands gently massaging my back. Working downward, his lips trailed moist kisses down my spine.

“Mmmmmmm.” I purred, taking great pleasure from his actions. “I love that.”

Rob’s hands trailed over the back of my legs, kissing every inch of my flesh. Feeling his hands grasping the flimsy material at the sides of my panties I lifted myself just enough to allow him to slide them down my legs. Robbie’s warm breath wafting over my bare butt, heightened my sexual desires even more. His muscular arms spread my legs apart, wide enough to allow him to tease the swollen lips of my pussy with his tongue.

My hips bucked with each swipe of his tongue as he brought me closer and closer to cumming. Reaching back for him, I tried to grab him by the hair but he pinned my wrists to the bed, making me wait for an orgasm that would make me scream out. The orgasm came on quickly like an electric shock. My wrist, pinned to the bed, jerked free from Robbie’s grasp. My body shuddered violently as the sexual bliss coursed through my body.

“ROBBBBBBBBBBBBBB!” I screamed out, turning my face to the side. “GODDDDDDDD!”

My juices flowed like a swollen river, my body quivering. Rob slithered his tongue inside my pussy, teasing me until I peaked again. My breathing was labored, gasping for each breath. Clenching the sheets, I dug my fingernails into the material.

When my breathing finally returned to normal, Rob grasped my waist, lifting me up until my knees supported my weight. His shaft, thick and hot, slipped between the folds of my wanton pussy, letting me savor the feel of the head of his cock. Slowly, he pushed against me, taking slow, deliberate strokes until I felt his hot balls pressing against my sensitive clit.

I pushed back, grinding my butt against him. The feel of his balls rubbing against my clit immediately aroused my inner desires once again. Robbie fucked me slow, taking long strokes, at times almost pulling out of me. I wanted more and I wanted it now.

Pushing back against him, I rocked back and forth, quickly picking up the pace. My orgasm zapped all the strength I had left. Arching my back, I fell backwards against his chest. Robbie held me tight, letting me milk the orgasm for all its worth. My firm breasts heaved, my nipples harder than ever and hurting like hell.

As the orgasm waned, so did my strength. Collapsing face down on the sweat-soaked sheets, Robbie fucked me like a wild animal, his long, thick cock pounding harder and harder. His pelvis slapping against my butt, emitted loud smacking sounds that filled the bedroom. With a long, loud groan, Robbie pumped his steamy hot cum deep inside my pussy. He kept stroking into me until finally collapsing on top of me.

Perspiration from his face trickled onto my hair. His body sweat mingled with mine, seeping onto the cotton sheets. His heated breath wafted against my ear.

Within minutes, my body relaxed enough to fall asleep. My handsome, young lover was still on top of me, warming me with his body heat. We slept that way most of the night.

The bright sunlight pouring through the bedroom window stirred me awake. Robbie was lying on his side, his arms wrapped tightly around me. Wiping the sleep from my eyes, I checked the time. It was almost 9:00am. Half the morning was almost gone.

“Wake up! Wake up!” I shouted, jostling Robbie from a deep sleep. “We’ve got work to do!”

Robbie barely moved, seeming like it was taking forever for him to wake up. I jumped off the bed and ran into the bathroom for a quick shower. I thought Robbie would be up but he’d fallen back asleep. I gave up on trying to wake him again, thinking it best if he got all the sleep he needed.

After getting dressed and fixing my hair, I ran out to the galley to put on some coffee. I barely noticed Rebecca, Robbie’s mother climbing the steps up to the houseboat. I panicked, not sure how I’d explain Robbie’s presence in my bed. I knew she’d seen his pick-up parked in front of the building so she’d know he was around somewhere. I hoped he’d stay sleeping and I could figure out a way to get her inside the construction building while I came back and got him up.

“Robbie around?” Rebecca inquired when I slid the glass door back. “I noticed the building was still locked up tight.”

“Oh….a….he’s in the bathroom.” I stammered, hoping she’d buy it.

“In the bathroom.” She repeated, a faint smile forming on her face. “Are you sure?”

“No.” I muttered, knowing she didn’t believe me.

“You know, in my grandparent’s day they’d make the two of you get married.” She laughed. “But that was then. A lot of things have changed since then.”

There wasn’t any sense in me trying to say we hadn’t slept together. She’d already caught me in a lie. Why tell another?

Over coffee, we discussed hiring painters and roofers. I mentioned getting the weeds cut down, something I’d almost forgotten. Rebecca took over, making phone calls to responsible contractors who could do the jobs. I just hoped she’d forgive me for sleeping with her son.

Robbie finally stirred an hour or so later. Rebecca and I heard the shower running but neither of us said a word. I blushed with embarrassment, turning away from his mother.

Later that afternoon, I had written quotes from the contractors, giving them permission to start work. A fresh coat of paint on the building and fences would improve the looks of the place but having the roof repaired was a necessity. I was anxious to get the weeds mowed down so I could see what the property really looked like.

By the end of the week, Thunder Bay looked completely different, at least from the outside. Rebecca and I had sold two more houseboats, including a new Thunder Bay. The Baja powerboat I’d taken in on trade was gone, sold to a couple from Knoxville. I hated to see it sold but then again, it wasn’t something I really needed.

Sunday morning I prepared to leave for Chicago. Robbie and I had spent every night together so we needed a break from each other. He was a little down, not knowing when I’d be back. Admittedly, I felt the same but it couldn’t be helped. My position as Vice-President of Centennial Bank was far too important to risk taking any more time off.

Monday morning, I practically pounced off the elevator. I felt wonderful, no doubt thanks to Robbie and the sales we’d made during my stay at Thunder Bay. I stopped at the coffee bar to fix myself a cup of coffee, hoping I wouldn’t run into Burt Wheeler before I could get to my office.

As usual, Emily was already busy at her desk, typing up an announcement of some kind.

“Hey Hon!” She greeted me, peering over the top of her glasses. “Looks like you got some sun!”

“I sure did.” I agreed, grinning. “And I hope to get even more.”

“You got any tanlines?” She asked, bursting into a laugh.

“Yep.” I answered, slapping my hand on my hips.

Entering my office, I tossed my purse and attaché onto the credenza just like I did every morning. Turning to boot up my computers, I noticed two of them were gone. Looking around, I noticed some of the furniture had also been moved around. The carpeting looked like it had been cleaned also.

“Before you ask any questions, you need to run over to Burt’s office.” Emily stated. “They told me to tell you as soon as you got here.”

I felt faint, thinking I’d already been caught. My legs stiffened, making it difficult for me to walk. As I trudged the corridor towards Burt’s office I kept trying to think up excuses for my actions in buying Thunder Bay, at the same time denying a loan to another potential buyer. I knew Burt would probably fire me no matter what and his father wouldn’t refute his decision.

Connie Marshall, Burt’s cute little secretary, looked up from her computer monitor when she saw me approaching. The serious look on her face didn’t do anything to calm my nerves.

“Go on in.” She asserted. “They’re waiting for you.”

They? That had to mean Burt and the Director of Personnel!

Opening one of the double, solid oak doors to the President’s office, I spotted Walt Taylor over by the windows. Director of Personnel for Centennial Bank, Walt thrived on fucking over people, firing staff members for the most menial things. He answered solely to the President of the bank so I didn’t have jurisdiction over him.

“Valerie! Come in, won’t you?” Carson Wheeler greeted me. “We’ve been waiting to see you.”

A quick look around as I approached the two men, let me see that Burt wasn’t present. Motioning for me to sit down in a comfortable chair by the windows, I caught a glimpse of a blue manila folder in Walt Taylor’s hand. I knew immediately it was my personnel file.

“Fuck ‘em!” I thought. “I’ll should just make a run for the door and deprive them both of berating me before they chop off my head.”

“How was your vacation?” Carson Wheeler, Burt’s father, inquired. “Other than being too short.”

“It….it was fine.” I stuttered.

Carson Wheeler sat there looking at me for what seemed like an eternity. His salt and pepper, neatly groomed hair and short beard gave him a very distinguished look. Dressed in a designer suit that had to cost a fortune, he prided himself on his appearance. He wasn’t a man who looked threatening but when he spoke, you better be listening.

“Over the past few months I’ve been pondering a decision.” Carson affirmed. “I’m sure you’re well aware I don’t make decisions without thinking things over.”

I nervously nodded my head, unable to speak a word. My throat and mouth were dry as a bone.

“I’ve made a decision, which affects this entire organization.” Carson continued, leaning forward in his chair. “One I hoped I’d never have to make.”

“Oh God, just get it over with!” I thought. “Get to the point! Fire me so I can get the hell out of here!”

“Friday afternoon, I dismissed Burt.” Wheeler muttered. “It was damn hard for me to do that to my own son but it had to be done. I gave him a year’s severance so he’ll survive until he finds another job.”

I was shocked at hearing the news, no matter how good it felt to know his lack of abilities had finally caught up with him.

“There’ll be a posting going out to all the bank’s facilities later this morning.” Carson affirmed, a faint smile forming on his handsome face.

“Even though we haven’t discussed the issue, I was sure you’d accept the promotion to the President’s position.” He stated.

“You will, won’t you?” Carson asked, hoping I’d say yes.

All I could do was nod my head, barely choking out the words that I’d gladly accept the promotion. Both men shook my hand but I was still having difficulty believing it was all true. Walt Taylor reviewed the salary increase, which was almost double what I’d been making. The benefit package was much better than I thought it would be, which really surprised me. The perks practically paid all my living expenses, not to mention additional weeks of paid vacation and the use of a luxurious condo in Fort Lauderdale.

“I’m bringing in a new guy to take your place.” Carson stated. “He’s the former Vice-President of the New England Banking Company. I’m hoping under your tutelage he’ll be able to fill your position. He’s young and doesn’t have much experience. But he’s bright and well educated.”

“There is one thing.” Taylor chimed in. “You won’t be able to bring Emily Hanks with you.”

“Why? Why not?” I questioned.

“Emily’s decided to retire.” Taylor revealed. “I hate to see her go as much as anyone but she’s going to be sixty-seven next month. She and her husband plan on traveling while they’ve both still got their health.”

“If you’d rather not have Connie for your secretary, there’s a lot of other women you can pick from.” Taylor added. “That’s up to you.”

“Oh….well….let’s see how Connie works out.” I stammered, still shocked at the news of Emily’s retirement.

Carson gestured for Walt to leave the office, which didn’t bother me in the least. We both watched the door close behind him.

“Before you ask, NO, you can’t fire him!” Carson Wheeler laughed. “I wanna do that myself over lunch.”

“What I do wanna talk with you about is the three million dollar loan you wrote for yourself.” He continued. “Tell me about this Venture Limited LLC company you’ve got going on the side.”

I took a deep breath, wishing I had a cigarette. Starting at the very beginning, I told him how I’d formed Venture Limited for an opportunity that might arise in the future. I didn’t withhold any details, feeling it necessary that he knew everything, including my purchasing Thunder Bay Houseboats.

Carson Wheeler sat quietly across from me, absorbing every word I spoke. He never interrupted me once to ask a question although I’m sure he had many. I talked for over an hour, divulging everything to him.

“Sounds like Thunder Bay Houseboats might consume quite a bit of your time.” Carson asserted, when I’d run out of anything more to say. “That worries me a little.”

“I can assure you it won’t affect my performance here at the bank.” I avowed. “My priority is Centennial Bank.”

“That’s what I was getting at.” Wheeler countered, rising to his feet. “You’re not going to have much time for yourself running back and forth between Chicago and Lake Cumberland.”

“How about you cut me in on Thunder Bay?” He inquired, looking out at the Chicago skyline. “I’d be more than willing to oversee the business if you’d cut me in for say….half ownership.”

“It’ll cost you three million.” I boldly stated, knowing he wouldn’t give up until I agreed. “We’ll split the business fifty-fifty, equal control.”

“Three million!” Carson exclaimed. “That’s a helluva lotta money!”

“Thunder Bay’s worth ten.” I boasted, remember Frank Martin declaring the same figure.

“I’ll stop down in accounting and write a check to pay off that signature loan of yours.” Carson asserted, displaying a big smile. “That alright with you?”

“Fine with me.” I responded, getting to my feet to shake his hand. “Just don’t fuck things up at Thunder Bay!”

“I’ll try not to.” Carson laughed, grasping my hand. “I damn sure don’t wanna piss off my new business partner!”

I practically ran back to my office, anxious to tell Emily of my promotion to the President’s position. What I hadn’t realized was that she was typing up the announcement when I arrived for work. She knew about my promotion before I did but she wanted Carson to break the news.

I had mixed emotions, knowing my long time confidant and close friend was retiring. I was happy for her but saddened for myself. Emily knew me like a book. I seriously doubted Connie Marshall and I would ever have that kind of relationship.

After helping Emily pack up her personal items, we carried them down to her car. Surprisingly, she was very upbeat for a person putting in her last day at a job she’d worked at for such a long time. I wasn’t sure what to say after we had everything stowed away in her car. I hadn’t had the time to get her a retirement gift, let alone think of anything to say. Wishing her a happy retirement was so cliché and not very personal.

“You’ve got my cell phone number.” Emily muttered, giving me a hug. “Keep in touch. I wanna know how the romance is coming along with that cute young guy you’ve been seeing.”

“I will. I will.” I responded, tears welling in my eyes. “But how did you figure out Robbie and I were seeing each other?”

“Robbie! Even his name sounds cute!” Emily replied. “As for knowing you two were back together, I could tell by your walk. You used to come trudging down the corridor every morning but when you came back from the lake, you were practically prancing.”

Reaching inside my jacket pocket, I took out an envelope, placing it in her hands.

“What’s this?” She questioned, wiping the tears from her eyes with a tissue.

“I didn’t have time to get you a proper retirement gift so I deposited some money in your personal checking account.” I replied. “It should be enough to buy that motorhome you always talked about.”

“I….I can’t thank you enough.” Emily muttered, tears streaming down her face.

Watching the woman drive away, I wondered if we’d ever run into each other again. I certainly hoped we would.

Returning to my former office, I called the maintenance department to see if anyone could help move my belongings. The furniture I’d leave except for my desk chair. Over time, it had come to fit my butt perfectly. Burt’s high-back red leather chair looked pompous and uncomfortable.

It was late afternoon, when I got all settled in. Still getting used to being the new President of Centennial Bank, I wasn’t sure what to do first.

Connie Marshall was just getting ready to leave for the day. Entering my office, I couldn’t help but notice how tight her short red leather skirt was. At twenty-two years of age and barely over five foot tall, she was cute as a button. Connie’s long blonde hair hung halfway down her back and shadowed her pretty face. Her figure was perfect for a woman her size, everything in proportion.

“It’s five o’clock.” She mumbled, looking down at the floor. “Do you need anything before I leave?”

“No.” I replied.. “I’m fine. I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Miss Marlowe, would it be improper for me to ask if I’m going stay as on your secretary?” The young girl asked, looking quite worried.

“I don’t see why not.” I answered, giving her a smile. “I’m sure we can work together.”

“Thanks. I was worried you’d want somebody else.” Connie asserted. “Somebody like Emily.”

With that said, she left the office, allowing me to get back to work. It was nearing 7:00pm when I called it a day. My eyes were getting tired and I was facing an hour long drive on the expressway to get home.

During the long drive home, I received a call from Rebecca on my cell phone. She just wanted to chat about how things were going at Thunder Bay. I skipped over telling her about my promotion. Instead, I informed her about my new partnership with Carson Wheeler and that he was the new co-owner of the business.

“I’m not sure when you can expect him.” I stated. “It may be a week or two before he shows up.”

“The sooner the better.” Rebecca asserted. “I’ll gladly welcome anyone who can take over the responsibility on a day-to-day basis.”

“I’m worried that Robbie might not like it.” I affirmed. “He and Carson might not hit it off.”

“Don’t worry about Rob.” The woman avowed. “As long as he’s building houseboats, he doesn’t care who he’s working for!”

“I hope you’re right.” I responded. “Robbie’s an important asset to the company. Losing him would have a dramatic effect on Thunder Bay.”

“A dramatic effect on Thunder Bay or a dramatic effect on you?” Rebecca quipped, snickering.

“Both.” I replied, realizing how much I already missed him.

It was late that night before I finally wound down enough to get some sleep. So much had happened during the day, I couldn’t stop thinking about the events that were radically changing my life. I hoped everything would work out for the best.

Arriving at work on Tuesday, I stopped at the coffee bar, just like I did every morning. Looking down the corridor leading towards my old office, thoughts of Emily entered my mind.

Connie Marshall, my new secretary, wasn’t at her desk when I arrived at my office. Not scheduled in until 8:00am, it seemed odd not having someone there to greet of a morning.

I went about, booting up my computers, just like I always did after tossing my purse and attaché on the credenza. Looking around at my new office, I realized how much bigger it was than my old one. A private bathroom, complete with shower and a wet bar were just a couple of the amenities I’d have to enjoy. Kicking off my high-heels, I delighted in the feel of the soft, plush carpeting beneath my feet.

“Burt Wheeler really had it made.” I thought to myself. “Too bad he fucked it all up and lost his job.”

Remembering my business deal with Carson Wheeler, I checked my personal bank accounts to see if he’d paid off my signature loan like he promised. I was greatly relieved to find that he had, not that I doubted his word. But when it came to money, I wanted to stay on top of things.

I wasn’t sure when Cole Bannister, the bank’s new Vice-President, was going to arrive. I figured at least two weeks, maybe longer. Checking into his background to get acquainted with him beforehand, I found out he was thirty-two years old and married. His wife, Nicole was an architect and a graduate of one of the leading engineering colleges. As for Cole, he was a Harvard graduate, with a PHD in Finance and a Masters Degree in Management. The information I was able to obtain didn’t mention the couple having any children so I assumed they didn’t.

“Probably too damn busy handling money matters to knock her ass up!” I thought. “That’s one of the things that I let ruin my marriage.”

“TO BE CONTINUED…”