Chapter 5 Make It 35

Kelvin

I sighed heavily as I glanced through the resumes and pondered why none of the candidates I'd spoken to had been successful. They felt off for some reason, but I wasn't sure what. No one had progressed past that stage when I was interviewing them on the porch of my mother's house to get to know them a little better before I brought them inside. If there was anyone I would genuinely brave seeing, it had to be the right person. Mom was sulking upstairs, and I knew that.

I mumbled, "Phoebe Roy," doubting if this would be another pointless exercise. "You had better be the right one."

In awe that she arrived ten minutes early, I quickly checked my watch as I noticed someone approaching the home. When it came to my staff, I valued punctuality, and that sentiment carried over to this situation as well. Actually daring to be late was one of the men who applied for the position. I wasn't even willing to give him a chance before we ever spoke, so he had no chance.

Looking up, I noticed a startlingly attractive person. Her heart-stopping smile was accompanied by her dark waves that cascaded down her back, and her piercing blue eyes, which twinkled and gleamed. Then there was her physique; she was thin and curvaceous, and the incredibly beautiful top she was wearing practically exploded against her breasts. I could see long legs peeking out from beneath the knee-length skirt. Though I didn't get the sense that she was aware of it, she was very beautiful. She didn't in the slightest appear haughty.

She exclaimed rather enthusiastically, "Hello, I'm Phoebe Roy." "I sincerely appreciate you agreeing to meet with me. Thank you so much."

Thanks for the kind words. I appreciate you coming, very much. You may sit down now.

I was transfixed for a split second by her as she sat down and tucked her skirt under herself. A woman hadn't attracted my attention in such a striking way in a very long time. I briefly lost track of where I was.

"Oh, right. " To recover focus, I made my eyes forcefully look downward. You have 18 months of motel cleaning experience, according to your resume.

"Yes." In her lap, she sat with her hands together. "I realize it isn't much experience with cleaning, probably not as much as some of the other people you've seen today, but I can assure you that in that time I have done a lot of cleaning jobs. Things you'd prefer not to consider.

I couldn't resist joining in on her laughter. I became engrossed in this woman immediately since she had an endearing and contagious quality. What actions did you take earlier, then? The importance of the work experience suddenly diminished. Previously, I was making the mistake of focusing more on the tasks they had completed than on their personalities, which was a mistake. Phoebe had a pleasant demeanor. The biggest challenge I had to face was that I truly believed my mother would like her.

For a period, I was employed by the restaurant that belonged to my ex-husband, but I left after having my kid. She said this with a withdrawn expression. Since few others would have been as forthright, I admired her honesty. I was hired by the motel when it was all over.

What made you leave your position there? There was a pause there that hinted at a plot, in my opinion. It won't have an impact on your ability to perform your job here, so you can tell me. Unless, of course, you killed somebody. How did I get here? Was It teasing her? In an interview, that was most definitely not the acceptable behavior.

Why, then, couldn't I stop?

You genuinely want to know, right? When she saw me, she arched her brow. Is that correct? The story is not pleasant.

I must now understand.

Because they were losing money, the motel had to make layoffs. I may perhaps keep my job, according to the manager, provided I agree to...do a few things.

My tummy began to immediately tighten. Never have you treated an employee in that manner. "I'll bet you're suing," Even though I was clenching my hands to control my anger, it was still about to blow up.

Oh, regarding that, I'm not sure. I'd like to focus solely on finding a new career for the time being. Nothing or my house should be lost. My daughter needs my attention; please.

Overcoming me was guilt. I occasionally forgot how challenging it was to struggle because of all the wealth I had amassed in my life. Or perhaps I didn't know, which is more accurate. Growing up, my mother protected me from any financial issues that we might have encountered. Phoebe seems to be making the same effort on behalf of her son or daughter.

Obviously, yes. The necessary actions must be taken. Even though I had a gazillion questions for her, I couldn't help but feel a certain sense of comfort around this person. I was very impressed with her up to this point. All that was left for us to discuss was one topic. Thus, the job entails working for my mother. Her leg was broken lately after she fell. Although she needs it, she doesn't want assistance.

She had the air of a strong woman. Thus far, so good. Despite that, she didn't appear to be offended. I like a woman like that.

I appreciate your perspective. At Phoebe , I chuckled in appreciation. Since she could be a little prickly if you work for her, that is why.

It's better to be prickly than itchy, therefore I don't mind.

"That is true, now." My choice was impulsive because it felt correct. What about meeting her? As a result, I'll have more time to show you the house. Following that, you can get a better idea of what you'll do in this area.

Of course!" With eagerness, Phoebe jumped up. I love the way that sounds.

I showed her about the house while pointing out particular tasks that I was aware my mother preferred to be completed in a particular manner. I wanted Phoebe to have the best possibility of getting along with Mom if she ultimately decided to work here. Where there wasn't a necessity, I didn't want any problems to arise.

My admiration for Phoebe grew as we talked more. Although she was quieter than other of the folks I had spoken to, she had a wonderful side. She sounded as though she really meant every word she spoke. Those were good. I had this gut instinct that Mom would appreciate Phoebe if she showed her her heart.

Mom is upstairs, I see. What about meeting her?

Without even a hint of nervousness, Phoebe nodded. She was completely oblivious to the risks she was taking. Though I tried, I was unable to emulate her peaceful assurance. I didn't know what would happen because Mom didn't want assistance and had vehemently contested that issue with me.

"Mom?" I caught a glimpse of my mother watching television from her chair as I glanced around the door of her bedroom. Phoebe is here, I promise. I want her to get a chance to meet you once she interviews to be your maid.

With a flame in her eyes, Mom turned to look at me. Fear clung to my throat like a solid lump. Thankfully, she nodded, since I was terrified that she would completely humiliate me. OK, go ahead and enter.

Phoebe and I were standing side by side in the bedroom when I brought her there. Elena, my mother, is speaking to you, Phoebe . Here's Phoebe , mom.

Mom got a warm handshake from Phoebe as she approached, who had a friendly smile on her face. What a pleasure to meet you, Elena. You live in the most amazing house, I have to say. About the interior, you did a really great job.

Phoebe 's hand was shaken by Mom as she looked at me from behind Phoebe . Her face had a difficult-to-interpret look. But I couldn't figure out what Mom was trying to say to me with her eyes.

We're glad to have you here, Phoebe . What draws you to work with me, I must inquire.

"Oh." I wasn't sure if Phoebe 's blushing was from embarrassment or something else because she had pink cheeks. I pondered Mom's reaction if she related the incident involving her former boss to her. My former job wasn't working out for me, so I thought I'd apply because I have a daughter to support.

Not a husband? Without regard for societal norms, Mom jumped right in.

"Nope, just a bothersome ex,"

Oh, trust me, I am well aware of it. My mother rolled her eyes. The father of Kel was a true nightmare, to be honest. Phoebe got a friendly pat on the hands from her. I understand what you're going through, I'm sorry. The best strategy for survival is to simply maintain being resilient and independent. You simply carry on regardless of what he throws at you.

That's incredibly wonderful of you, Elena. Thank you. Furthermore, it was nice to meet you even if I didn't obtain the position working for you.

Are you insane, Pfft? You're going to get the job, of course! You are welcome to come work for me; it would be my pleasure. In the most unexpected turn of events, my mother responded. When she said those things, I couldn't believe it. I mean, I'm hoping to be back on my feet in no time, but in the meantime, it would be great to have you around.

It completely astounded me and shocked me. We both felt as though Phoebe had performed her magic. Something about that was absolutely fantastic.

"Kel, what have you proposed to give her?"

17 bucks per hour, I believe.

I said, "Make it 35." I was astonished by my mother's request, but I didn't mind it at all. Phoebe needs to be interested in working for us and staying the entire time, so we want to make sure of that.

That's excessive, oh no. Without success, Phoebe tried. My mother gave her the cold shoulder, shaking her hands in front of her face.

"Nonsense." The mother shrugged. You needn't worry; Kel can afford it. Start the next day. Do you think that's acceptable? Have you got child care?

That won't be a problem because my daughter is going to school tomorrow.

I nodded to Phoebe as she glanced at me for confirmation. It makes perfect sense, of course. I'll lead you outside, so come on.

I pondered what was going to happen once I bid adieu to the lovely woman with raven hair that Mom had taken a true shine to. Without knowing why, it seemed as though I had lost all control. Mom had to be planning something since she was often far too obstinate to change her opinion that quickly. I required learning what, so I did.

What say you, then? I merely asked her. While I was trying to learn more, I didn't fix my gaze on Mom too long. Phoebe seems friendly, right?

Mom said with a cheerful "Oh, she'll be fine." She will be very useful in this area.

She will, I guess, you're right. I made an effort to sound informal. What caused your decision to alter, then? I assumed you weren't interested in assistance. You and I must have argued passionately over it, in my memory.

She shrugged. I can relate to her. She needs this job, and I am aware of what she is going through. Phoebe is a good woman who merely requires a break. I'd rather have her if you're going to insist that I need someone.

My impression was that it went well beyond that. Although I was aware that Mom would be so generous as to act in that way, I felt that there was more going on than what was immediately apparent. I simply wasn't certain of what...