“You guys.” Rachel dabbed her eyes. “I thought I was all out of tears. How did you pull this off?”
“Lots of planning and secret meetings.” Tiffany tugged her to the rocking chair. “Sit down and let us spoil you.”
Alexis sat at the far side of the circle. She was the newest to the group, and while everyone had welcomed her, she knew this moment was especially bittersweet for those who had known Rachel for longer. She was content to let them have this moment while she waited and participated in the background.
In the middle of Rachel opening her presents, Carl, the head of security and a former Marine, knocked on the door. His wife, Luna, part of the group and a former resident, began to stand, but he motioned for her to sit, then waved for Alexis to meet him.
She stood up, quietly excusing herself and stepped outside the room. “What’s going on?”
“I’m sorry to interrupt, but the board of directors are here. They’d like to wish Rachel farewell in person, but I know how important this baby shower is.”
“Gotcha.” She glanced over her shoulder, saw the pile of unwrapped presents dwindling. “The shower part is almost over. Where are the board members? I’ll meet them and talk to them until the ladies finish.”
He clasped his hands together. “Thank you for understanding.”
“No problem.”
“I’ll take you to them.” Stretching out an arm, he indicted the way to go.
She began to walk down the hall. “Are they all here?”
“Yes, and no.” He muttered something unintelligible under his breath.
“What’s that?” she asked.
“It’s nothing.” Shaking his head, he grumbled again.
His behavior was completely out of character for him, which put her on alert. “Obviously, it’s something.”
He sighed. “You’ll find out soon enough. They replaced Mr. Alleman’s spot.”
Her stomach clenched. As the new director, she should have been informed. “Why did no one tell me?”
“I just found out. From what I understand, the official announcement will come tomorrow.”
“Great,” she mumbled.
“Don’t take it personally. I only found out because I was the one who met them when they arrived.” He gave her an assuring smile. “I don’t believe Rachel even knows.”
But Rachel isn’t the director as of today,she wanted to say. She shook her head, ridding herself of the offense. Carl’s explanation was logical, even if she didn’t exactly agree with it. It wouldn’t even bother her so much, but she was a firm believer in open communication. However, she realized her insecurities were playing on her, and she had a professional demeanor to uphold.
Her thoughts trickled back to Carl’s reaction. “I’m guessing the new board member didn’t make a great impression on you?”
“He seemed…disinterested. As though being here was an inconvenience.”
“Then why and how is he on the board?”
Carl shrugged. “Don’t know, wasn’t my place to ask.”
“Maybe he’s having an off day,” she suggested, trying to give the benefit of the doubt.
“Could be. I guess we’ll find out.” He didn’t sound convinced.
She’d learned quickly that Carl was an excellent judge of character. This was one time she hoped he was wrong. The board needed members who were passionate about the cause and mission of Hope House. Anything less would have a damaging effect on the shelter.
“I served them cake to eat while they were waiting.” Carl grinned and winked. “Maybe it will sweeten up the new guy.”
Alexis laughed. “Smart idea.”
