A Proposal Read online

  Debra checked her messages while sitting at a rest stop on her way home. She got out and stretched for a moment. A steady drizzle had made the drive challenging for a good five minutes. A downpour moments before she left work had drenched the roads.

  Now, most of the roads were clearing. The flowers were blooming in a small walk space garden. The garden was a community effort to encourage drivers to take a break if needed and prevent road clogs.

  “Hey Debra!”

  Debra turned around suddenly.

  “Danson, hello! Wow, what a surprise.” Debra gazed at her former boyfriend in surprise.

  “I thought that was you. Gosh. The last time I saw you was three years ago!” Debra felt a pang of old bitterness.

  “I hope you are doing good. You will never believe it. I got married finally.”

  “That is great Danson.” Debra mouthed, the words, losing sound as she spoke.

  “I guess, I will get back on the road now. All the luck to you and your family.” Debra squeaked out weakly.

  “You too Debra. Great to see you.” Danson reached in his pocket to write his phone number, but Debra was already speeding away.

  Chapter 4

  Weekend

  -^-

  Tonight, she had made plans with a friend of Michael’s named Jeff. Michael described Jeff as handsome and witty. In the first five minutes, he asked Debra if she wore dentures.

  Across the tiny table at Chez Noir, Debra’s impression of Jeff was plain and hesitant. He wasn’t bad looking, but his continual dour expression would be appropriate at a funeral. They discussed politics, religion and teeth. After two hours, Debra initiated her dating exit strategy. Debra had zeroed in on - the number one quality Jeff needed in a women.

  “Jeff. I didn’t know what to expect when Michael mentioned you, but now that we have talked for awhile; I really see you two as friends. Also, I am glad to tell you how much I detest the idea of guys who hang on their Mother’s words. Clingy relationships with mother-in-laws are not my thing. So, should we do this again?”

  Jeff seemed to squirm in his chair. “No. Um. I mean. I am no good at this dating thing. Nice to meet you Debra. I just remembered I have my laundry to do tonight.” Debra's lack of acting abilities came through as she feigned surprise at her dates early goodbye.

  ^

  Over the weekend, Debra had the chance to relax. She mailed the condolence card along with a box of goodies for her niece and nephew. Telephoned George directly to ask if he needed anything. Then she put her feet up on her coffee table, grabbed a throw blanket and put her phone on ‘Do Not Disturb'. A new movie was available from her subscription list. Now was Debra time.

  Dansen’s words were ringing in her ears. You will never believe it. I got married finally. Three years ago seemed like a lifetime. Debra couldn’t have imagined herself as an executive back then. She had worked for a large product marketing company. She punched in at nine and out at three everyday. Her evenings were spent with Kim, Tiffany or Dansen. Tacos and Coca-Cola every Tuesday. The weekends were shopping, dancing and parties.

  Debra hadn’t realized that Dansen’s feelings for her weren’t progressing. In all the fun and newness, Dansen and Debra had become more of an item than a couple moving towards a marriage announcement. Debra moved away, accepting her new job at Herschen Foods. At first, she had missed all the couplehood weekly rituals. Brunch on Sundays…movies on Fridays...her friends had been his friends.

  Work became a dedication keeping her from looking at her loneliness and then with time…she began to embrace her independence in social activities. Debra didn’t miss a relationship in the least until now.

  Her sister Denise had enjoyed her family life before everything ended. Debra knew first hand what Denise’s love for her husband and kids had meant - fulfillment. Denise never saw the responsibility as a burden. The phone rang. Kim apologized. “I didn’t know about your sister. I am so sorry. Now I know why you were edgy. Listen Debra. How does a double date sound?”

  “Great, actually. Who is it?” Debra’s answer was unexpected to herself.

  “It should be a surprise, but I’ll give you a hint. Dress up. You won’t regret it. Meets us Friday at ‘The Met Café’.

  Debra giggled. “Perfect idea, Kim, your timing is perfect. See you next Friday then.”

  ^^

  Monday morning, Robert sat staring at Debra’s report. Her timeline was cutting edge. A turnaround any company would envy, with projections for products sales growth. If actuality followed her assumptions, Tosibrand could expect a revenue growth percentage of fifty percent per year, for the next five years. Things looked good for closing the deal from all angles. If Debra stayed on track, she might be the new general manager. Debra noticed Robert seemed tired. He was always in the same ‘matter of fact’ mood and never showed his bad side. Debra was getting hungry. Maybe, Maggie’s had a special on their baked goods to go. She would find out on her way home.

  Chapter 5

  Croissants

  -^-

  Debra entered the company lounge. Two steaming cups of coffee sat on the coffee table. “Good morning, Robert!” Debra said cheerily.

  “You have been busy, I see. Between the rumors of your label update and this report, it looks like Tosi will certainly sign and your future promotion is set.”

  Debra hesitated. She took a giant sip of coffee and pulled out a stack of papers.

  “Something else, Robert. Sam has been busy too.”

  Robert was all ears. He sat back drinking his coffee while Debra filled him in on the latest news and her upcoming double date.

  Ten minutes later, Debra headed over to check-in with Max before the nine-thirty meeting. Sam, David, Laren, Robert and Debra huddled around the table. A brief summary from each person’s report was pieced together by Laren with a large yellow highlighter. The final proposal was brief. Three pages including a persuasive paragraph with Herschen Foods ability to produce an outstanding product quality and look - at a competitive cost.

  The group took a break for fifteen minutes and enjoyed the croissants. Max said goodbye while juggling several croissants, his meeting notes, a list of ‘to do’s’ for next week, and pineapple juice. Laren disappeared with Frank, holding piles of reports and notes.

  Debra’s part of the project was finished. She sat back. A late breakfast and a laugh with colleagues. Michael appeared briefly, grabbing a fresh croissant and muttering “Good job, team” thru mouthfuls. Robert sketched an update for him. Frank stopped by as the summary finished. Laren reappeared.

  “Just in time, Frank. Here you go!” Laren handed Frank a copy of the final proposal to be presented tomorrow. Robert and Sam were set with their presentation. Michael would review the proposal and hear the presentation later.

  Back at Debra’s corner, Laren filled Debra in on the latest office rumor. Max poked his head in her doorway.

  “Are we going to lunch?” Debra and Laren smiled at each other.

  “Absolutely. My treat. Great Idea Max!” Debra replied for her and Laren.

  “Should we invite Robert?”

  “Another idea, Laren, great. Let me send a text now.” Just at that moment as Debra started typing the message, Max saw Robert walking their direction. “Perfect. Are you coming to lunch with us?”

  “You guys? Who else? I am starving.” Robert smiled his bubbly wide grin. Debra grabbed her purse and the four left together.

  Debra bought lunch for her team plus Robert at one of the trendiest bistros in Portland. They laughed throughout lunch and Debra was surprised to learn both Laren and Max were everyday smokers and excused themselves to enjoy the expansive outdoor patio filled with fellow smoke lovers.

  “Debra. How are you? Since your sister’s death, I thought you might need to talk to someone, but I have noticed your social calender seems filled.”

  “I miss her.” Debra said lightly.

  “What are her kid's names?”

  “Daniel and Denise, they are four year old twins. It has been tough on George. I am thinking to visit soon. I really love those kids and I know Denise would want them spending time with me. Headed back to Redding soon.”

  “Long drive. Robert’s piercing brown eyes captivated her for a moment. “What if I came along and pitched in for gasoline.” Robert couldn’t imagine such young kids without a mother. His eyes welled with tears.

  “No one says ‘gasoline’ these days.”

  “Ok. ‘No one’ wants to accompany you on your travels.”

  “What do you plan to do in Redding?”

  “The usual tourist stuff. Read a good book.”

  “Ok.”

  “I’ll pick you up eight in the morning. A break seaside midday. Don’t forget a sweater.”

  “And my bathing suit…” Robert said coyly.

  After lunch the group took a quick walk around the quai and arrived back at work in time to make notes on the day’s work and check emails before heading home.

  Debra talked with Laren on their way back to their cars. Did she know anyone with the qualifications the company needed for a coordinator. “It would be on contract with a possibility for a permanent position; if production continues its growth.”

  “I might know someone. I’ll let you know. Debra. I wanted to ask something personal. You have worked with Michael a long time. I wasn’t sure…you’re not interested romantically in anyone at the company?”

  Debra blushed. She had not expected that question.“ Just between us girls, I am dating again, but I am trying to find a way to spend more time with family. So, the answer for now is no. Robert and I have a friendship outside of work, but both of us are dedicated to our jobs first.”

  Debra drove slowly away from the bustling quarter, happy with her day. It had been good for the team to mingle outside and Debra felt a weight off her chest talking about her sister’s family.

  ^

  Sam and Robert arrived back at Herschen Foods exhilarated from the success of closing the deal with Tosi.

  “I don’t know about you, but I am ready for vacation.” Robert declared.

  “Me too. Michael’s got vacation scheduled next week. Frank mentioned Michael is watching closely to see who will fill the new Upper Management position.”

  “That’s interesting. I think I will use this chance before it gets close to the product roll-out. Production won’t start for two weeks. The balls in your office now.”

  “Your right. I guess my vacation will be roll-out time. Debra and I will keep things in-line. Have a good vacation.”

  “Thanks, Robert. Sam hesitated a moment before continuing. “Debra has started dating again.”

  Roberts eyebrows rose up suddenly. “Really. I didn’t think of you as the type to be interested in gossip.”

  “I am not. You are right. But, Debra has been dedicated to her job and you too. She hasn’t talked much about her loss. So, I am happy to hear she is dating.” Sam started to veer away and added. “I already cleared a month off with Michael. A temp will fill-in for a week working with the numbers.”

  “Sam, your expertise was invaluable to our success. You’re a lot like Debra in this area. I will be mentioning your efforts to Michael.” Sam headed to the bus stop and Robert back to his office. He had planning for the next year. Plus, he wanted to talk to Debra suddenly.

  Chapter 6

  Party Planning

  -^-

  Sparkling grape juice, soda and homemade ice tea from Anthony’s, the party was set. A variety of sandwiches, chips, and a crock of spaghetti. Most of the attendees would be upper management with Ferino and his assembly line coordinator Dan. Laren had planned a celebration for all employees at lunch, end of the week.

  Michael was preparing his speech for the luncheon. Laren sat reviewing her project notes. All in all, her first assignment at Hershen Foods was a success. She was hired on a project basis with a possible reassignment and signing bonus. Michael waved her into his office as she finished up her lunch hour at her desk.

  “In conclusion, Hershen Foods is proud to roll-out the new promotion and product line for Tosibrand’s newest product, Blue Beans. Enjoy the food and celebration. Everyone gets the rest of today and tomorrow as paid vacation! What do you think Laren?”

  “Great! I would add the time of the vacation start. All the managers need a memo.”

  “Now, I know why I hired you. The reason I called you in, is the company has found your work exceptional. I want to ask if you will stay until roll-out on the same contract. This might change if something comes up, but you will continue as project coordinator working with Debra specifically. Her office is expanding to include project leads. You would be above rank to her assistant Max, but assisting Debra as needed. My assistant, Frank, will be the new project coordinator in general. There might be a possibility of a new upper management position.”

  “Let me check with my agent and I will give you my answer by Friday. Then I will be off Wednesday and Thursday. Send me a message if anything else is needed for Friday. Anthony’s confirmed the catering and balloons. By ten-thirty, the room will be ready and food heating. I’ll stop by here on my way to check on everything. I will send Frank your way. See you then…”

  Earlier in the day at an eight o’clock meeting, William was updated on the current and future client list. Michael didn’t care for early meetings, but William was insistent. William was impressed by the process and solid work ethic of Michael’s team. Now that Tosibrand was Herschen’s client, William could focus on Treath. William was leading not only Hershen Foods, but also Treath Advertising. Both Sam and David had started their careers at Treath.

  “I have to tell you, we need more clients. Herschen Foods is not streamlined like Treath. Two client’s products en route and one new client. Come up with something. I see you in two weeks. You know how to reach me. Here is my new car phone. Your bonus this month is here.”

  William had passed him a silver envelope. Expensive stationary. Twice his monthly salary! Michael was going to build a home gym. He had reason to celebrate. Now, that his work hurdles were falling into place. His next project would be to find someone to marry.

  ^

  Back in his office preparing for the month ahead, Frank appeared. Michael began. “I am taking vacation Wednesday full day. Thursday half. Friday full day. Vacation all next week. I’ll need you in the office the whole week. Call - only if necessary. I’ll check in.” Frank was used to Michael’s clipish nature. He was hired right before Debra started. He made notes on the memos he would need to send. He smelled overtime in Michael’s requests. Frank needed every penny. His wife Joann was expecting their first child next month.

  “Frank. Listen up. Two things more. Meet with Debra next Tuesday and Thursday briefly. All problems with production - send to my vacation inbox. Your project is too report back any kinks you notice while I am gone. I intend to put in my recommendations next month for a new position in the company. Anything comes up, not sure, talk to Debra.”

  Michael added in a quiet tone “And between us. William has asked for us to add another product a.s.a.p.”

  Frank, always with his pen and notepad continued making notes. He nodded at Michael. “Enjoy your time off. You deserve it.” Frank shut Michael’s door. Laren was waiting at Frank’s desk.

  “I don’t know if Michael mentioned my schedule, but I wrote a note for you…” Laren looked like she had something on her mind.

  Frank, slightly irritated, wanted to follow up on his discussion with Michael and take a late lunch.

  “Thanks, Laren.”

  “I have a decision to make…” Laren voice trailed off as she waited for Frank to inquire. The phone rang and Frank was relieved. Laren waved, “I’ll see you Friday morning then. Good job Frank.”

  Frank's hand went to the phone. “You too. Thanks again!” He said genuinely. Laren headed for the exit.

  Chapter 7

  Michael

  -^-

  Debra was starting her vacation tomorrow for one week. Then another week next month. Michael favored this week of relative peace and quiet. He had a report due and wouldn’t need to worry about interoffice issues or production hang-ups. Plus, William would be either on vacation or working with Treath for the entire month. He had heard some strange rumors this last week from a former colleague. Whispers of a possible merger with Treath and Herschen.

  Michael stopped by the lobby himself. The receptionist, Frannie, was reading a popular magazine in the sleepy afternoon lull.

  “Good afternoon, Frannie. I trust you have the vacation schedule list.”

  “Yes, Mr. Felton”

  “Wednesday, I’m ordering lunch for the team. Make sure you have a few menus and your petty cash is adjusted higher for the week. Make a list of who will be around and their lunch order in the a.m. Maybe catch them as they pass the lobby. Tell them it is my treat. And talk to Lauren about the best spot to place the food at lunchtime and decide which restaurant or deli.”

  “Ok. Mr. Felton”

  “Also, Frank will not be here after Tuesday. So you will need to screen my calls. Make sure you know when I arrive and leave. He has a new title now.

  Take a message and send it by text. Any client calls go straight to me. Make sure I get the message personally. Hand write the message from any client and follow-up. When you take lunch or away from the phones, Max will cover. Put a sign-up in lobby with a phone and phone number. Max should know when you are in the lobby or not.”

  “What about a temp?” asked Frannie bluntly. It sounded like a lot of responsibility. She usually worked alone. Needing no assistance and not worrying about lobby coverage when she took breaks. A straight nine to four shift. Phones, mail and visitors. Simple.