She took her time that morning, with her makeup and hair and put on her favorite dress, the one that gave her confidence. Wearing it made everything in her life seem better. The fit was perfect and gave the appearance of a business suit. It was important to look professional. After all, she really did need this job.

Life had it ways of letting her know when it was time for change. She knew it was time. Leaving her old boring job was easy and finding this one immediately was almost too good to be true. However, everything about this job felt right. The location of the building was very convenient. She could drive or take the train. She was excited about the interview.

She arrived a little early. Not wanting to seem anxious, she looked for the Directory in the lobby and found her way to the restaurant on the main floor. It was small, clean, and quaint. She sat at a table by the window and ordered a cup of coffee and her favorite blueberry muffin.

She was feeling so good about her future. Then she saw him. He was lean, tall, and quite good-looking. He was gliding toward the register, leaving the room, and she could not breathe. He past her table and without a glance was out the door.

It seemed like hours before she was able to get up and leave that restaurant, even though it had only been a few minutes. What is happening to me, she thought, why am I feeling this way? She had seen him briefly, but in that short time, he consumed her. “Get yourself together woman”, she whispered, “and go to your interview”.

As she left the restaurant, she noticed it had started to rain a little. Oh no. It looked like there might be a storm coming. Well, I’ve handled storms before, she thought. When the interview is over I will go directly back to my apartment; since I have no umbrella.

Thinking of the rain was a welcomed distraction from her earlier thoughts. She needed a clear head. She wanted that job. She had always heard rain is a good sign anyway. Good things grow in the fresh rain.

The interview went extremely well and the job was hers. “Could you begin as soon as possible?” the interviewer asked. “Mr. Clear doesn’t want to be without a receptionist another day. In fact, before you leave, allow me to show you where you will be working”. As they left the interview room a feeling of excitement overwhelmed her for a second.

Oh my, she thought, this is really nice. She noticed the offices were large with many windows and plenty of light. Thinking with a smile, I am going to love it here. Her thoughts were interrupted by a deep and very pleasant voice. “Mrs. Vaughn, when you are available, may I see you in my office.”

As she turned toward the sound, her heart stopped and she felt a little dizzy. It was him. Standing in the doorway. Looking her way. This time, it felt like days passed and no sound was made.

Then she heard Mrs. Vaughn say, “Mr. Clear, this is Miss Elizabeth Meadows. I am showing her where she will be working. She is your new receptionist.”. Their eyes locked. He smiled, walked to her, extended those manicured fingers, took her small hand into his, and said, “Wonderful, can you start tomorrow?”

Barely able to speak, she heard herself say, “I am scheduled to be here at 8AM sharp”. “Well”, he responded with a smile so warm she actually felt it, “I am happy to hear that”. He turned and went back into his office; as quickly as he came, he was gone. But the warmth of his smile stayed in the room.

Mrs. Vaughn then said, “That’s unusual. He never leaves that office to call me. He always uses the intercom. Well, here we are. Your office is the first office and its right next to mine. Mr. Clear’s office is down the hall, but we are the only three offices in this corridor. This place is very busy and your day will be occupied with much to do.” Feeling a warm sensation in her entire body, she responded, “I am looking forward to it”.

Elizabeth left the building and hurried to her car. As she ran across the street trying to stay as dry as possible in the sudden down pour, she remembered, she had neglected to ask Mrs. Vaughn anything about her new boss. She knew absolutely nothing about him. But, in her heart, she felt like she knew him better than anyone she had ever known.

She forced herself to stay focused. The drive in the rain on the way home was exhilarating, so much so, she decided to run a few errands. Tomorrow would take a long time to come and her anticipation was already almost overwhelming.

She took extra care the next morning preparing for her first day at work. She looked and felt beautiful. She was happy; and felt very confident. It is so marvelous, she thought, having something to look forward to, not only her job but her co-worker Mrs. Vaughn and of course, Mr. Clear. Yes, today is certainly a great day.

As she entered the building, her heart leaped. She eagerly made her way to the suite of offices. She was excited. She was fifteen minutes early and also a little nervous. As she entered she heard voices and knew then she was actually later than anyone else.

Elizabeth put her personals into the office which was to be hers and headed next door to Mrs. Vaughn’s when she heard, “Good morning”. It was deep, refreshing and gripped her like an unsuspected blow.

She felt a surge of joy as she responded with her best smile, “Good morning, Mr. Clear”; using restraints not adding – ‘DEAR’. And as quickly as he came, he was gone…….