CJ Cregg sat in her car staring at the impressive house before her. Nervous didn't begin to describe her mood. This job was the opportunity of a lifetime. She had spent five years toiling away as a secretary. Then in one week her whole life had come apart. The girlfriend she was supposed to spend the rest of her life with had cheated on her and she was fired from the job she hated. Now she was sleeping on her friend's couch and had applied for this job on a lark. After a rather lengthy interview process, she had secured the position with a ninety day probationary period. If the director liked her then it would be hers permanently.
More importantly, it came with a place to live. While her friend had been gracious, she knew that she had outstayed her welcome. So, she needed this job to keep a roof over her head. And the money wouldn't hurt either. This job was supposed to pay $56,000 a year plus benefits. It was more than she could ever hope for.
She figured something had to finally go right in her life. So, maybe if she could get her career on the right track her personal life would be next. So, here CJ was sitting in front at the gates of the massive estate waiting for someone to answer her buzz. "Yes." The static filled voice came back. "I'm here to see Mrs. Bartlett. I'm the new manager for the main office." There was a moment's pause then a loud buzzing sound began as the gates opened of their own accord. "Please come to the main house."
CJ drove up the very long driveway. The driveway was as long as the street she'd grown up on. She parked in front of the house and got out, fixing her suit. It was the only one she owned and often paired it with different shirts to give the illusion of numerous suits. CJ was over 6 feet tall, the low heels she wore were just high enough to be professional without being intimidating. She had reddish brown hair and fair skin.
She walked towards the door to ring the door bell. After several minutes, a young woman opened the door and stepped aside to admit her. "Suzette is in the library." The young woman turned without another word. CJ assumed that she should follow so she did. She stole brief glances around the hallway she walked through. There was a refined elegance here that screamed old money.
The maid opened the door and gestured inside. When CJ stepped passed her into the room, the maid closed the door leaving CJ standing inside the room. There was a woman on the phone. "Yes, yes. I will be handling the transition. It will be absolutely seemless… Yes, I have spoken with Mrs. Bartlett about that she has agreed to handle all the details… No, I will introduce the new secretary around at the luncheon… Yes, good-bye Mrs. Carson." The woman turned around and looked in CJ's direction a warm smile coming to her face. She hefted her very pregnant frame out of the chair extending her hand, "You must be CJ. It's good to put a face to the voice." CJ walked over to shake.
"Its nice to finally meet you as well. Thank you so much for this opportunity."
"No problem. I'm just glad we were able to find someone as competent as you before I left for good. I have ten more days and then it's all up to you."
"I'm ready to jump right in." CJ tried to push down her nerves.
"I certainly hope so." There was a little disbelief in Suzette's voice. "Either way we will soon find out. Did you bring your things with you?" CJ nodded "Good. Let me show you where you will be staying." They walked out the library, threw a living room and into a garden.
"Should I get my things?" CJ asked.
"I'm sure they have already been delivered. And if you left your keys in your coat, I am sure your car has already been moved, which brings me to a something very important point. Never ever park your car on the main driveway it drives Abby crazy. Even if you are in a hurry."
They came to a structure that looked like an old barn. "This is where you'll be staying." Suzette opened the door. "This is the old Barn. Abby had it converted into an apartment for staff about 10 years ago. I lived here until I married Michael." She gently touched her stomach. I would show you around but I can't make it up the stairs. But your bedroom is at the top of the stairs. There is a bathroom up there and plenty of closet space." The maid from earlier came down the stairs. "Did you unpack CJ's things?" Suzette asked. She nodded. "Ok. I'll leave you to get settled meet me at the house in about 30 minutes we'll head over to the office." Suzette and the maid turned left.
CJ looked around, this was her new home. 'Not that bad Cregg. Not bad at all.' She went upstairs. All of her boxes had been brought up here. And her clothes had been hung in the closet. She straightened her suit and fixed her hair. She made her way back to the main house.
When she arrived Suzette, was standing at the front door. "Did you get settled in?"
"I can't believe she put my stuff away."
"Margaret is really helpful that way. You can utilize the staff for whatever you need. Cleaning cooking or whatever. Or you can ask them never to enter your apartment again. It's completely up to you. It's unlikely that Abby will come over there at all, but you never know." They got into a waiting sedan and left the property.
Suzette spent the rest of the afternoon giving CJ a run down on everything she needed to know. No detail was left out. She handed CJ three binders filled with people's pictures and little blurbs about them. Suzette said it was helpful in remembering the social network. She showed her the operations of the office and introduced her to the limited staff that was around. "You will be expected to do everything and anything. Abby keeps a light staff because she doesn't like many people around. And sometimes when her brother or father are around you will staff them directly. Luckily you won't have to staff Jed."
"Jed?"
"Yes, Josiah Bartlett, Abby's husband. He's a politician. Wants nothing to do with the family business. Here is a very important note. If you like this job don't get any designs on him. I've seen a lot of women chewed up and spit out trying to come between him and Abby, she won't let anyone ruin her image not even her husband." CJ was sure that wouldn't happen. But she kept that comment to herself just nodding slightly. "We'll spend the next few days getting you up to speed. Any questions?"
"Just one. When will I meet Mrs. Bartlett?"
"Not for a few weeks. She's away."
XXX
CJ spent the next few weeks meeting countless people. She had met Jed, who had made a move, and CJ had politely declined. She had met both James Barrington, III and IV and both of the Mrs. Barringtons, but she had yet to meet Mrs. Bartlett.
Suzette had left CJ a few weeks before. CJ had set about studying the workings of the office. Noting here and there where changes would be effective, getting to know the staff and familiarizing herself with Abby's extensive schedule. So far, the only sign of Abby were the messages left on the answering machine with instructions to do things.
CJ was finally going out tonight to see her friends. She would be meeting them for dinner. She left word at the main house where she would be. She was excited. She wasn't the mooching girl anymore, she had a career. Her happiness came to screeching halt when she made it to the table and saw her ex with her hand wrapped around the newest object of her affection. CJ took a deep breath and put on a brilliant smile. "Hey, sorry I'm late."
She spent the rest of the dinner avoiding the ex's stares and praying that it would be over soon. When she had excused herself to the rest room, her best friend Julie followed. "I'm soooo sorry. I didn't know she was coming until I got here. And I tried to call but I guess you had already left."
"Its ok." CJ lied.
"I can't believe she brought that tramp." CJ could. Colleen could be very cruel when she wanted to be. And CJ had figured out that Colleen wanted everyone around her to be absolutely miserable. CJ spent the rest of the meal grinning and bearing it and when she could make a hasty retreat she rushed home to find solace.
She parked her car in the garage and made her way to the barn. She saw the light in the living room and assumed that she had left it on. Hopefully tomorrow would be better. She walked in to see a beautiful woman sitting in her wing back chair. The woman was impeccably dressed so there was no way that she had randomly wandered onto the property.
"Excuse me may I help you with something?"
"I do not enjoy waiting for you to return. You should leave word of the exact time of your return from now on." CJ figured that this was Abby.
"I apologize Mrs. Bartlett it won't happen again."
Mrs. Bartlett stood. Her suit fell nicely over her perfectly over her curvaceous figure. Her chestnut brown hair was swept over one shoulder revealing just enough neck. "Tomorrow morning please arrange to take me through the details of the Houston flower show. Also, I need the projections for next year's budget." She paused, obviously she didn't mean tomorrow as she was staring pointedly at CJ. CJ made her way to her brief case and pulled out the budget she had brought home to make the final changes. She handed them over. Mrs. Bartlett turned and left.
CJ leaned heavily against the wall. A magnificent ended to a horrible evening.
XX
Abigail Barrington Bartlett was impressed by what she had seen of CJ's work so far. While Suzette was competent, CJ seemed to excel. When Abby had first taken over the foundation, her mother and sister-in-law had mocked every decision she made. She never wanted to do this the way they had. Abby had dreams before duty called and she stifled them in order to meet expectation.
She worked hard and exceeded expectation, creating a foundation that far surpassed anything that her mother had done. She was the envy of everyone her in circle. She had carefully sculpted her life. Molding herself into something untouchable. Not even her husband's constant affairs could interfere.
When Suzette had announced that she was leaving to stay at home with her baby, Abby had giving her the task of finding a replacement. CJ was the 3rd try in six months. Abby had chosen her herself. CJ was a Reed graduate, Abby's own alma mater. She had called the President of the college to get a recommendation for CJ and received full assessment of CJ's attributes.
She chose CJ because she wanted to take the foundation to another level. She didn't want her daughter to be encumbered with it. Zoey deserved better. She knew that her daughter had the makings of a doctor. She had told her how Zoey had removed the casing from a hot dog without bruising it. Abby knew enough to know that most surgeons couldn't do that. So, an eight year old having that type of skill was virtually unheard of. Now, Zoey had gained interest in other things, most 13 year olds did, but Abby knew eventually that's where she would end up.
If the foundation could exist without a Barrington woman at the head then Zoey would be released from the obligation that stifled Abby. The Foundation had been giving to her great-Grandmother as a gift from her husband. It was also an opportunity to divest the family business of some of its assets to avoid taxes. Her great-Grandmother took it as an opportunity to raise the profile of the already wealthy family. Her Grandmother had expanded the giving of the family.
Her mother had done absolutely nothing with the foundation, but throw lavish parties. She spent more money than she brought in. When Abby took it over, she had to dig the foundation out of a huge deficit. After ten years, she was finally able to return the endowment to the size it was when her mother took it over.
She walked into the office. It was time to let CJ know the purpose of her being here. CJ's head was buried in papers. Abby walked into the office and sat down in the chair in front of CJ. CJ looked up a little startled by her visitor.
"Good morning, Mrs. Bartlett." She waited for Abby to respond. "Can I get you some coffee?"
"Do you know why I hired you?" CJ waited. Was that a rhetorical question? "You have no experience with foundations or secretarial work. You're not exactly right for what the foundation is right now."
"Then why did you hire?"
"Because after speaking with your former employer and some people at Reed, I believe you can help me take the foundation to its next step. I want to move away from throwing parties for the sake of throwing parties and pick another area where my money can be put to good use. You have a week to give me something worthwhile. Otherwise your probationary period will end early." Abby got up to leave.
"Music education."
"Excuse me." Abby turned around.
"Music education. The foundation's primary focus is the arts. Music education has been cut in quite a few public schools. There are many studies that say without it the quality of education will suffer. Its not a far stretch for the foundation, and it makes for great parties. People feel good about music and there is very little controversial about it."
"So, Music Education is your best idea."
"It's my immediate idea." Abby waited. "You graduated from Reed with a double major in chemistry and english and a minor in biology. You were pre-med." How did she know that? "I have friends still there myself. When I applied I did some research and asked them for information about you. You graduated summa cum laude and turned down an early acceptance from Harvard Medical. Which means you know enough about medicine for a shift to occur. The foundation can do a major shift to health related issues without it being out of the realm of possibility because of your interest."
"The board is not set-up to handle health issues. There's not an expert in the bunch."
"Your board is ineffective. A board of that size should raise money. From what I can tell you have single handedly raised 95% of the foundations assets in the past 10 years. While it's impressive, it's simply not enough. You have board members that don't bring in any money and spend like it's their own private bank account. It will have to change."
Abby was impressed. CJ had taken the time educate herself on the board. And more importantly she was not afraid to tell Abby what she thought. The board members that CJ were referring to were her mother and sister-in-law. Abby had upped her fundraising to off-set what they spent. But all her talents would never be able to completely erase the damage that they were doing if she didn't stop it sooner rather than later.
"What do you prepose I do?"
"Ask every single board member to raise $10,000 over the next 6 months. We will provide them with all the information they will need for the new focus. We start with education and move onto health in three to five years. Over the next three years we assemble another board or a sub group of the board that are experts in health related issues and can raise money. Also, we find someone to give you a better understanding where you can be most effectively felt."
"You have two weeks to come up with a game plan. And CJ don't share this move with anyone and be careful who you trust." Abby picked up her jacket and left the room.
CJ stood behind her desk closing her eyes to steady herself. She wasn't sure exactly what was making her light headed. The scent of Dior's Poison that Abby left behind or the mental stimulation that the woman had provided. Either way CJ was in trouble.
XX
It didn't take CJ long to discover what Abby had meant by be careful. In addition to working the foundations new proposal, she helped Abby plan a few upcoming events. One was the swim team meet and greet for Zoey. She had written Abby a memo outlining suggestions on caterers that she may consider trying. She left it on her desk one night. And not long before lunch the next day had received a rather nasty phone call from Mrs. Elizabeth Barrington threatening her job. It was just a caterer, you would have thought she suggested that the earth didn't in fact revolve around the Sun. Abby just told her to use the caterer that had been used in the past.
Since there meeting she had not seen very much of Abby. It was a week from the end of her probationary period and CJ was working hard on the new plans. She had moved all her paperwork to the spare room in the barn and banished the staff from entering.
She had spoken with Abby off and on to get continued go ahead on the project, but mostly she worked alone. She was one week away from her 90days ending when there was a knock at her door. She opened it to find Abby's maid standing there. "Mrs. Bartlett is leaving for the plane in 20 minutes and would like you to join her on her trip to London." Having delivered her message the maid made a hasty retreat back to the main house.
'London? What the hell was in London?' CJ raced upstairs and throwing her clothes in a bag. She went into the second bedroom to unplug her laptop and stuff it in a bag. Throwing that and her newly packed suitcase in over her shoulder she rushed to the front of the main house. Someone was loading Mrs. BArtlett's bags in the back and when he saw CJ took her bags adding them. A few moments later Abby walked from the house giving directions to a girl that CJ recognized as Zoey's nanny.
"Make sure she attends every single riding lesson. I will be back for her recital in 2 weeks." Abby got into the car without another word. As she followed CJ thought, two weeks she definitely had not brought enough clothes.
They were half way through the plane ride before Abby said anything to her. "We will be spending sometime in London then moving on to Vienna."
"Ok."
"Did you bring the proposal with you?"
"Yes, ma'am." Abby smiled. Prepared even with 20 minutes notice. No one had ever past that test.
"Call me Abby. We are going to be working together a while."
"Abby why am I on this trip?"
"Several reasons. Privacy and access. We will spend the next two weeks coming up with a game plan. I have called a board meeting which will occur in a month. There we will present the new recommendations to the board. If the chairman of the board likes the new direction she will be calling for the immediate resignation of every single member. Those members who wish to continue will have to reapply. You will have one day to prepare for a presentation and tomorrow then you will present it to me and the chairman."
"You mean I am going to meet Abigail Eleanor Barrington."
"Yes." Not many people knew anything about Abby's grandmother. Abigail Barrington was legend at Reed and at women's college's up and down the eastern sea board. She had not only changed hem lines but got many campuses to start offering its girls birth control. Abby had been named after her grandmother at her father's insistence. Her mother had changed her middle name from Eleanor to Elizabeth, but most considered Abby to be a carbon copy of the 1st Abigail.
Both were forces to be reckoned with. And when Abigail asked Abby to take over the foundation, she had remained on as chairmen to lend Abby her full support. In a month Abby would replace her grandmother, assuming her grandmother approved CJ's ideas.
XX
When they arrived in London and CJ was sure that Abby wouldn't need her she ran down to Harrod's to buy a new suit. Considering that she finally had enough money in her bank account to shop and that all she had was her old ratty one, she splurged a bit and went designer. She spent the next 24 hours putting together a presentation that would knock both of the Abigail's socks off.
When there was a knock at the door she was ready. She took a deep breath opening it to admit Abigail and Abby. "Good Morning Mrs. Barrington. I'm CJ Cregg." CJ extended her hand.
Abigail Barrington gave CJ a warm smile. "CJ isn't a name, its initials. What do they stand for?"
CJ swallowed hard. Abby stood beside her grandmother enjoying watching the usually completely composed CJ loose her cool. "Claudia Jean."
"Then that's what I'll call you. Claudia Jean wouldn't you like to offer us a seat and some coffee."
"Yes, yes I'm sorry. Please take a sit." CJ pointed at the couches in the opulent suite that she was staying in. "Cream and Sugar Mrs. Barrington." The woman nodded. "Abby can I get you the same?" Mrs. Barrington took note of the fact that CJ called Abby Abby. If Abby had signed off on that then she must like CJ very much.
"Claudia Jean I understand you are a Reed girl."
"Yes, Ma'am. I graduated five years ago."
"Then you must know Mrs. Ann Prescott."
"Yes, she was my modern French history professor."
"How is she as a teacher?"
"A slave driver."
"Yeah, that sounds like Annie. We were roommates our sophomore through senior years. One would never know that she almost got kicked out for missing curfew at least once a month during that time."
"I can't believe it. I was late for class once. She made me stand the entire time and answer ever single question. Then when class was over gave me a 45 minute lecture on how a Reed girl was always on time. And how I couldn't hope achieve anything at this fine institution if I didn't take a moment to learn how to count the hands on the clock."
"I believe that's the speech Ms. Anders gave her every time she missed curfew. She said one day she would be able to put it to good use." They all laughed. Abby wasn't surprised that her grandmother had sensed CJs nerves and decided to put her at ease. It was what Abigail usually did.
"Now Claudia Jean I believe you have something to show us.
"Yes." CJ launched into an elaborate plan to increase music education to schools all over the country. Her entire presentation took about 20 minutes.
"Who do you suppose we hire to teach these classes?"
"Other students. Most colleges in this country have a requirement of community service. Most of them have a music department. I know that I learned how to play the piano because one of my friends took lessons and when her mother made her practice, which she hated to do, she would show me how to play what she had learned." CJ left out the part that she had the biggest crush on this girl and would have done anything she asked. "Its easier to take direction from someone closer to your age. And most of the students have a love for their instrument that is very likely to come across and make the learning exciting."
Abigail considered this for a minute. "Abby, also tells me you have decided to expand the foundation to health related issues. Don't you believe that some will say that we are losing focus and heading in a direction that we have never been in before."
"I would remind them that this where the Foundation started, when Eleanor Barrington began the foundation she did mostly care for the sick and infirmed. She established hospitals in New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Some that still exist even today. I look at this as more returning to our roots."
Abigail gave a small smile. Very few knew that her mother used the funds raised at those lavish parties she threw to give back to the community where her grandparent's had started. And while the Barrington's had giving generously since then. Her mother encouraged Abigail to pursue art as the foundations focus because it was what Abigail loved.
"Well, Claudia Jean thank you for the lovely presentation." It took CJ a brief second to realize that Abigail was getting ready to leave. She retrieved her jacket from the closet and kissed Abby on the cheek. "Abby when you come to dinner tonight bring Claudia Jean with you." And with that she was gone.
Abby let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. She moved to the refrigerator and pulled out the bottle of champagne that she knew would be there and popped the cork.
"Are we celebrating?" CJ asked. She wasn't sure what had just happened.
"Of Course we are. She loved the presentation. We just got the go ahead."
"I'm sorry. How do you figure? All she did was invite me to dinner."
Abby chuckled. "If she hadn't liked and approved the presentation she wouldn't have invited you to dinner, but used the meal as an opportunity to order me to fire you."
"Maybe she wants to do that to my face."
"CJ, I need you to be more confident." Abby sat down on the couch with a glass of champagne in her hand. She patted the space next to her. "Bring yourself a glass and the rest of the bottle. So, what did you think of her. Did she live up to the image in your head?"
"I think she surpassed it. I feel a little like I was run over by a tornado. Now, I see where you get it."
"Me I am nothing like her."
"Oh please Abby. 'I do not enjoy having to wait for your return.' That night I knew that Margaret was going to pack my things and ask me to remove my car from the premises. Then you walk into my office and tell me that I have no skills. I think you may be more intimidating than your grandmother. You are virtually unreadable."
"It takes one to know one. However, I'm impressed by your reaction to me; most people crumble. You seem to thrive off of it."
"I need this job."
"Well, today you guaranteed yourself the position." CJ gave a really heavy sigh of relief. Abby laughed. "CJ you need more confidence." They sat in silence for a few minutes. "Why do you go by your initials?"
"I thought it sounded more sophisticated. Claudia Jean sounds like a lanky girl from small town USA. At college that's what I looked like. I didn't want to sound like it too."
"I like Claudia Jean, but I like Claudia more. And I'm not sure you could ever not look sophisticated."
They stared at each other a few minutes. Abby glanced down to look at CJ's lips, who chose that moment to lick them. Abby could feel her temperature rising. "Ok. Well, I am going to relax. In my room." She could hear the desperation in her own voice. "I'll see you in the lobby at 7:30."
CJ watched Abby's fleeting form leave the room. "Why does she have to look so damn good?"
XX
At 7:25 CJ stood in the lobby waiting for Abby. Because she felt the walls closing in on her she went shopping again. She spent more money this afternoon than she had in the last year. This time she bought a simple blue strapless and shrug. She didn't know where they were going for dinner tonight, but she didn't want to look out of place around Abby and Mrs. Barrington.
"Excuse me. Are you Ms. Cregg."
"Yes." CJ said to the young English boy who had approached her.
"This was left for you." He handed her a slip of paper that said. Left early. The driver knows where to go. Abby "Your car is this way." CJ followed him wondering why Abby had left her. There was a sedan waiting. She handed the boy a tip and got in. She was wisked around the streets of London. Eventually the car stopped outside of a house that looked like it was taken directly from a Jane Austen novel. The driver came around and opened the door. Inside was more beautiful than the outside. CJ was led through the house to a main dining room where she could hear laughter coming from inside.
The door was opened for her to reveal a round table set for a full scale dinner party with only two occupants Abby and Abigail. Now that CJ had relaxed some it amazed her how much they looked alike. They had the same high cheeks bones, dark eyes and gorgeous necks.
"Claudia Jean!" Abigail said. "You made it. I'm so glad."
"Thank you for inviting me to your home Mrs. Barrington."
"None of that Mrs. Barrington stuff. You call me Abigail. Now sit down. You are a tad bit behind us but I trust you can catch up." She raised her glass indicating the wine. "How was the drive?"
"Good. London is beautiful at night."
"Is this your first time here?" Abby asked.
"Yes. I've always wanted to come, but never made it."
"Well, Abby you are going to have to show her the city. When Abby was a teenager I escaped here after her Grandfather died so she is very familiar with the place. You'll show her everything tomorrow." It was clear that it was an order and not request.
"I'd be happy too." Abby replied.
They talked for the next few hours. Sharing stories of Reed.
"So, Claudia Jean are you married?"
"No."
"Boyfriend?"
CJ smiled slightly, "No."
"Girlfriend?" Abby asked. CJ choked on her wine. "Told you Grams. You owe me $50."
"Well, Abby not all Reed girls are lesbians. I had at least a 50/50 chance. But you didn't answer the question Claudia Jean. Do you have a girlfriend?"
"No."
"But you did?" Abby moved a tad closer to the edge of her seat. Almost imperceptible to everyone except Abigail.
"Yes. We broke up. Actually I walked in on her with someone else." CJ shook the image out of her head and smiled a smile that didn't quite wipe the sadness from her eyes.
"Well, she didn't deserve you if she couldn't see the beauty that was in front of her." Abby said. She had forgotten her grandmother was in the room. She wanted to wrap her arms around CJ and tell her how beautiful she was. And that she would take care of her.
"Thanks. It doesn't matter. I wouldn't have taking this job if we were together. And I wouldn't be in London. And I wouldn't be shopping at Harrod's and spending entirely too much money. So, all and all I came out on top."
"Well, Claudia Jean that's the attitude to take. If you stick with us you will be seeing a lot more than just London. Abby and I talked before you came. We will be making an addition to your proposal. We will be doing a musical exchange program every year with students from different genres of music from around the world. You will be making the selections."
"Mrs. Barr… I mean Abigail. Thank you so much for the opportunity."
"Don't thank me. It was Abby's idea. Well, ladies it is past my bed time. I will see you in the morning."
"Goodnight, Abigail. Thank you for dinner."
"Anytime, Claudia Jean. Come back and see me before you leave London." She left the room without speaking to Abby.
"I am going to speak to her. Why don't you take the car back. I will borrow hers."
"I don't mind waiting." CJ said. She was hoping to spend more time with Abby tonight. No such luck.
"Goodnight, CJ." Abby left the room following her Grandmother's path.
When she entered Abigail's room she was sitting at the vanity facing the door. "That didn't take you very long." Abigail said.
"Grandmother that was rude. You shouldn't have left like that."
"Abby why aren't you in the car wrapped around that magnificent Amazon, instead of up here with me."
"Grandmother be serious I'm a married woman."
"Abby who are you talking to? You married Jed because he was convenient and is a generous man who seems to love you. But you and I both know that he has not satisfied you sexually in a very long time. And if the half the reported affairs are true, then you aren't satisfying him either."
"Jed and I are happy. And I am not a lesbian."
"Please don't insult my intelligence. I know exactly what you did at Reed and all your time on the streets of London. You may have been able to snow your mother with that it was just a phase bullshit, but not me. So back to my question. Why are you here with me?"
"I am fifteen years her senior. There is no way a woman like that is going to want me."
"Well, I don't know Abby. I think she has noticed that the Barrington women hold up well over time." Abigail walked to her granddaughter taking her hand. "Abby, if you want her. Don't let a silly thing like age get in your way. If she doesn't want to be with you, I'm sure she will tell you. But don't close yourself off from passion because you are afraid. Now leave my house. I need to sleep."
Abby left
XX
CJ and Abby spent the next two weeks together. They shopped in London then moved on to Austria. After Vienna, they went to Budapest and Abby insisted on touring all the baths. It was CJs first look at Abby's body. The first day Abby wore a one piece with the sides exposed and enough cleavage that CJ was sure that if she bent over she would pop out the top. They ate at the finest restaurants and attended the Opera. CJ felt like she was being wooed, but chalked it up to her projection her own attraction.
Now, they were on a plane heading home. Abby's glasses were perched on her nose and CJ couldn't help but observe how sexy she was.
"CJ." Abby said. When she didn't get an answer she smiled, "CJ."
"Huh. Yeah. Yes."
"Distracted?"
I wouldn't be if you weren't so freaking sexy. CJ thought to herself. "No, just thinking."
"Did you hear what I said?"
"No."
"I said that we should begin being more public with our new plans. Leave some things at the office. Start getting quotes from print companies for materials. Meet with the list of board members I gave you. Hint that you expect some changes. No details."
"Ok." CJ sounded non-committal.
"Are you ready for this? It could get ugly."
"Yes. I'm ready. I'm not really worried. What's the worst that could happen?"
"Oh CJ. Poor naïve to the way of the upper class CJ. Your time at Reed taught you nothing. You know those mean girls who have gotten so much attention recently. Well, these women make them look like saints. My mother hates any idea that's not her own. Even more she hates anyone smarter than her showing that they're smarter. She will come after you first. Every secret that you have will no longer be a secret. If there is something you don't want your parents to know you should resign now." Abby waited. She didn't want CJ to resign, but she also didn't want her to get hurt.
"She can't be that bad. And even if she is I tell my mother everything. The last earth shattering secret I had came roaring out the closet at 16 when she caught me with my hand up Leigh Simmons shirt."
"That must have been fun."
"My mother was surprisingly cool about it. Only one thing changed. I was no longer allowed to have sleepovers with girls. But my male friends who always had to stay in the living room before were now allowed in my bedroom albeit with the door open. She trusted that I was a lesbian, but wasn't stupid enough to categorize me just yet."
"She sounds amazing."
"She is. You would like her." Abby's mother was the exact opposite of amazing. She resented Abby for getting all her father's attention. James Barrington recognized Abby's intelligence immediately. He encouraged her daughter to pursue her dreams of medicine. But it all crumpled when Elizabeth Barrington caught Abby kissing another girl. She blackmailed Abby into compliance. And forced her into a marriage that she didn't want.
"I'm sure I would."
They flew the rest of the flight in silence. CJ imagined what it would be like to bring Abby home to meet her family. She was sure that they would like her. Her father would love to talk to debate Abby on whatever topic they landed on. And her clothes obsessed sister would probably rifle threw Abby luggage. But she knew that her mother would like her most of all. 'Oh, well. She's not your girlfriend. And you won't be bringing her to Dayton, OH to meet your parents. So get that notion out of your head.'
XX
The next two weeks were frantic. CJ brought the idea to Abby of eliminating most if not all of the office staff. Abby agreed and summarily fired anyone who worked there when her mother was there or got their job because of her mother. They hired young energetic staff who were ready and willing to implement change and not afraid of ideas. Abby even took it amongst herself to hires a few friends' daughters and one of their sons to preserve relationships. They were bright and qualified, so it wasn't that much of a hardship.
CJ was in the barn with the music cranked up. It was her day off, at least that's what she told herself when she left the office at 4pm that afternoon. She slipped into sleep shorts and a tank top. When her song came on she began to dance around the living room. She was feeling pretty good. Tomorrow's board meeting would be successful she knew it. When she turned towards the door she was surprised to Abby and Abigail standing there watching her.
"That was quite a performance." Abigail said.
"Oh My God. I didn't know you were here. How was your trip Abigail?"
"Relaxing."
"Nice Outfit." Abby could barely contain the lust in the statement. "Are you ready for tomorrow?"
"Yes. Would you like to see it?"
"No Grandmother just wanted to say, Hello!"
"Would you like to join us for a martini?" Abigail offered.
"Sure." CJ said. "I can make you one here if you like."
"I take it you heard my daughter-in-law was here." Abigail sat on the couch as CJ chuckled. "I prefer a cosmo to martini." CJ took out the shaker and prepared the drinks with refills.
"We caught you on your time off." Abby said. "You were clearly relaxing."
"No, I just put a chicken in the oven. I'm glad you two came by." CJ thought for a moment. Then decided to take a risk. "Would you like to join me for dinner?" She stole a brief glance at Abby.
Abigail smiled she knew her grand-daughter wanted nothing more than to be alone with CJ. But knew that she wouldn't want ignore the guests in her home. She also knew that if she left Abby hear Elizabeth would become her hateful and gossipy self, and imply that Abby had hired CJ for something else. She decided to give her grand-daughter an out. "Abby call the house and let them know we will not be joining them for dinner."
"Grams I have guests."
"Your mother and brother aren't guest; they are a pain in the ass. I feel sorry for your father but he made his bed. And it will give him ample opportunity to run off and hide somewhere with a phone."
"Good. So, I will put on some potatoes and go change." CJ was feeling very naked under Abby's gaze.
"You do that; we'll be fine." Abigail eyes followed CJ upstairs. "She has great legs."
"Grams!"
"Don't tell me you haven't noticed. You'd have to be blind not to notice."
"Grams, stop it! Whether CJ has great legs or not is none of your concern or mine."
"Oh sweetheart, you're in trouble."
"I have stayed very professional. She doesn't know."
"Professional or not. Abby, you're eyes wonder to very unprofessional places. And if you are curious so do hers." Before Abby could say anything CJ came back downstairs in jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt. CJ finished cooking and they ate. It was the best non-date of her life. At the end when she said goodnight to them. Abigail leaned in and kissed her on the cheek. Abby did the same but caught the side of CJs mouth instead. They separated quickly and said another hasty goodnight and the Abigails retired to the main house.
XXX
Abigail Barrington listened to CJs presentation. She listened to the asinine questions, then she called the new proposals in for a vote. They passed, as expected most board members were excited about the changes. Then she resigned as chairman of the board.
"I believe that Abby will do a fine job in ushering this foundation into its new chapter. My grand-daughter is savvy and capable and she has a vision for the future that we all need now. She has my full support."
"Thank you grandmother your faith means a lot. Now As I have discussed with some of you, I am asking all of the board members to resign today. In 24 hours, we will begin accepting new applications for board members and I hope all of you reapply. However, you are not guaranteed positions. The terms of membership are laid out in front of you." She took a deep breath before saying the next part. "The foundation by-laws require only one member of the board to be a family member. Former board chairs get first right of refusal, and grandmother has graciously agreed to fill the role. So, no one will receive preference over anyone else because they are a Barrington or married to a Barrington.
"You can't do that!" Her sister-in-law screamed.
"I can and I have. All board expenditures will need to be personally approved by me and each board member will be responsible for raising $15,000 a year. Are there any questions?"
There were murmurs around the table but most people said no. As everyone left, her mother and sister-in-law approached her. "I don't know who the hell you think you are Abby. But you cannot force us out. Your brother won't hear of it. And he runs Barrington Company which is the foundations largest donor."
"I think and I know that I am a Barrington. By blood not marriage. And like my brother I own 25% of controlling stock in Barrington Company. Not my husband, but me. More important I am the chairman of the board of this foundation. Jamie will support me because he will want my support and grandmother's support. Together we make a 51% voting block. So, please go toddle off to my brother and see how much he will interfere. My brother is a lot of things, but remember he grew up with me see if he wants to put his livelihood in jeopardy just to please you." She spat the last few words.
Abby and her mother stared at each other for a long time. Elizabeth had never seen Abby like this. Out and out confrontation usually made her back down as she didn't want to create drama in public. But today it didn't seem to matter. What Abby said was true Jamie would not run to their rescue and for that matter neither would James. She would have to find another way to make Abby bend.
XX
Four months later, CJ stood in the ballroom of the Barrington/Bartlett estate looking at the party in full swing. It was their first official fundraiser since the foundation changed its mission. CJ had been working very hard to show everyone that she deserved this job as much as Abby thought.
And tonight she had proved it. They had raised $150,000 so far and that was before the silent and live auction profits were totaled. Considering that the trip to Greece had just been purchased for a resounding $25,000 she felt pretty good about the outcome.
She had never seen Abby in her full on lady of the manor role before and tonight she gained a new appreciation. Abby spoke to everyone as if she's known them for years. The crowd was a mixture of the wealthy, music teachers and students. Abby engaged them all.
Abby saw CJ and approached her, "It seems to be going well." CJs huge smile gave away her agreement. "Claudia don't gloat." Abby had taken to calling CJ Claudia these last few months. "At least not until I can do it with you."
A waiter walked up to them, "Excuse me Miss Cregg, there is someone on the phone in the kitchen for you they said its an emergency." CJ walked past him into the kitchen. She didn't notice that Abby ahd followed.
"Hello… Brooke, what's wrong… Brooke you're gonna have to stop crying I can't understand you… Sam tell me what happening… Nooo." She covered her hand with her face dropping the phone. Abby walked up to her placing her hand on CJs back rubbing gently.
She picked up the receiver. "Hello, this is Abigail Bartlett. What's happened?... I'm so sorry…. No I'll take care of Claudia. She's leaving now I will make sure she gets there… If you need anything, please call me." Abby rattled off her phone number. She hung up the phone and pulled CJ into a hug. The woman's sobs shook her entire body. Abby managed to get her to sit on a stool in the kitchen, but CJ kept her arms wrapped around Abby's waist. Abby stopped Margaret as she came in. "Pack Claudia a bag. And have the car brought around. Also, call Murphy and tell him I need the plane tonight. Tell him destination Dayton, OH."
"He can't die." She heard CJ say.
"Sam said that he is stable. Your father will be fine. I'm sure of it. But you need to go and make sure for yourself that he is."
"I have to break down the party and run the figures."
"I've thrown a few parties in my time I'm sure that I can handle it. What I can't, you've hired a capable staff that can offer assistance. And if they can't, it will all wait for your return."
Abby put her in a car to the airport. And began to organize the cleaning of the house. She had made it to her bedroom when Jed walked in. "That was a lovely party Abby. You certainly out did yourself."
"Thanks."
"Is CJ all right?"
"Yeah, her father and niece were in a car accident. She needed to go to home." She paused a moment. "How did you know she'd left?" She hoped that Jed wasn't thinking of pursuing CJ.
"Don't look at me like that." He took off his tie throwing it on the chair. "Your mother couldn't wait to tell me that she saw you in the kitchen with your arms around 'that woman'." He saw the shocked look on Abby's face.
"It was a perfectly innocent hug nothing happened. Or will"
"Abby I know who you are. And you know who I am. We entered into this marriage with our eyes wide open. Your mother was trying to stir the pot. The same way she did on our wedding night when she made some comment about you not preferring men. I knew it before she told me then and anyone who knows and loves you can see that you are attracted to CJ."
"I won't break our marriage vow or jeopardize your chances of going all the way."
"Well, for the marriage vow thing. Why the hell not? We both know that I've had my share of flings." He held up a hand at her protest. "Not that CJ would be a fling. And from the brief time I spent with her I know what she would be discreet. So, I say go for it. You're my best friend Abby. We don't have secrets. I want you to be happy. You've given me a handsome and intelligent son and a beautiful and equally intelligent daughter. There is nothing I wouldn't give you or begrudge you taking for yourself. Especially if I get to watch."
"Jackass." She kissed him the check. "But your sweet. I think I am going to Ohio."
"And I think we are going to be paying Murphy extra this month for two trips to Ohio, but I'll call the airport and make sure he knows your coming."
Abby packed her bag and changed her mind twice before she got in the car. She changed her mind on the plane. And when she arrived at CJs parents home it was 7am, but there seemed to be a lot of noise. She rung the bell and a 13 year old girl that looked a lot like CJ answeres. "Yes." She said looking at Abby.
"Is Claudia, I mean CJ here?"
"I'm CJ." She said. "Constance Jac that is. You want Claudia Jean though right." Abby nodded. "Aunt CJ there's someone here to see you." She yelled in the house. "Who are you?"
"Abby." CJ stood behind the girl. She looked amazing. "What are you doing here?"
"I…" She was at a lost for words. "I don't know. I thought you might need me. I wanted to see you." CJ pulled Abby into a hug. They smushed the teenager between them.
"Aunt CJ I can't breath."
CJ pulled back. Laughing. "Sorry Jac." She swept a lock of hair behind Abby's ear. "Jac this is my boss Mrs. Bartlett. Abby this is my niece Constance Jac. I call her Jac. She makes everyone else call her CJ."
"You make everyone call you CJ. Except Mrs. Bartlett calls you Claudia. You hate Claudia."
"Well she got special permission because she doesn't annoy the hell out me like some people do."
"Dad, Aunt CJ said you are annoying." Jac's father stuck his head out the kitchen.
"So, is she. Would you two get in here. Breakfast is ready." CJ just stared at Abby. Jac grabbed Abby's hand and drug her through the house.
As they entered the kitchen, Jac called out, "Aunt CJs boss is here. This is Mrs. Bartlett." She turned her attention from Abby to her grandmother. "You didn't let daddy make the pancakes did you he always burns them."
"No sweet heart I didn't." She handed Jac a plate. "Put these on the table. Mrs. Bartlett, welcome, I'm Josephine Cregg. Thank you for putting CJ on a plane."
"Is that your plane?" A little boy said from atop of a man's shoulders. "Does it go really fast?"
"Luke stop asking questions. I'm Everette, CJ's brother and the father of Jac and the inquisitor here."
Abby smiled at the little boy. "Yes, its my plane and it goes pretty fast. Not super fast."
"Can I fly it?" Abby laughed. She liked his assertiveness.
"I would let you but my pilot gets a little touchy if someone touches his controls, but maybe he will let you sit in his chair."
"Cool!"
"I'm sorry to interrupt your breakfast. I just wanted to make sure CJ was ok."
"We're fine." CJ answered beeming at Abby. "Dad's fine. He was complaining when I got there about not being able to sleep in his own bed. Then summarily sent us all home to get some sleep. Let me introduce you to everyone else. The flyer's name is Luke he's 7. He would want you to know that. This is my sister-in-law Kate. My other sister-in-law Samantha, or Sam, she's the one you spoke to the phone. My sister Brooke and my brother JT or Junior Talmedge. And Brooke's daughter Haden. My brother Mark is at work. Everyone this is Abigail Bartlett." Everyone said a collective Hi. "Abby you hungry we were just about to have breakfast."
"I don't want to impose."
"Please, there is more than enough food. Grandma's so happy we're all home she's been cooking since 5." Jac said.
"Jac." Josephine chastised. "Mrs. Bartlett we would love to have you."
"Please call me Abby. And if its no trouble I am hungry." They made room at the table for Abby. Mostly, they talked about random points of interest in the family. Abby just sat back and watched, until Brooke addressed her.
"I love your suit. Is it Chanel?"
"Yes. It vintage. I picked it up in a store in New York not too long ago. I'm a bit of a clothes whore."
"So is she." Everette yelled across the table.
"Though nothing in my closet is as nice as this."
"I'm sure you look great in everything you wear. I on the other hand have to buy everything a size to big and have it fitted." Brooke liked her.
"So, Abby. How's our CJ doing? You haven't come here to fire her. Cause if you did I just want to say in her defense she's a bit of a klutz, but she can put a basketball in the trashcan at 50 paces." Everette said winking at his sister.
"Don't mind him. He's just mad cause he consistently looses to the girls every Thanksgiving." Kate said. Sticking her tongue out at her husband.
"Claudia has helped me a lot with the foundation. You should be very proud with what she has accomplished. Because of her children that would never have had the chance to learn an instrument will." CJ blushed.
"I can't believe it. CJ never showed any interest in anything, but the news and music videos. I had to force them all to listen to classical." Josephine said astonished.
"Well, I guess of that Bach got through." CJ said to her mother.
They finished breakfast. Everyone pitched in to help clean up. And then CJ took Abby to the hospital too meet her father. Once she was sure he was going to ok they got on the plane and flew home. Though Murphy was gracious enough to show Luke how to taxie a plane.
On the plane, CJ and Abby sat next to each other. "Thank you. It really means a lot that you came."
Abby cupped CJs face. "I needed to be here with you." She took a chance, pulled CJs face down for a kiss. At first CJ didn't return it. She thought she was dreaming and that if she made a move it would all end. Abby pulled back. Maybe she had made a mistake. "Claudia, I'm sorry. I didn't mean. This won't affect anything I made a mis…" CJ stopped her with another kiss. There kisses passionate and slow and long. Neither were sure they kissed. "Claudia, we have to stop. We have to talk about this."
"Mmmm." Was all CJ could muster. She kissed around Abby's jawline, lingering at her ear and down her neck.
"Claudia, stop." Abby breathed. She wasn't very convincing. She wasn't even convincing herself. It took all her strength to push CJ away. "CJ please. Let's talk."
"OK." CJ was sure she knew what was coming. Abby was going to tell her it was a one-time thing and that it would never happen again. Prepared for what she wanted to hear the worse, she hung her head.
"Claudia, I think I am falling for you and everything is telling me it's the right thing. But I don't even know if you're attracted to me. I am 15 years older than you. And I can't imagine that you don't have hundreds of girls beating down your door. If you don't want , if you don't want me, tell me now." CJ just leaned in and kissed her. She put all her passion into the kiss hoping it would convey everything she felt for Abby. "CJ, please answer me." She said as soon as could ply her lips away.
"How could I not be attracted to you, your fucking sexy?"
"OK. Well that answers that question. CJ I'm not sure what I can offer you."
"I don't want anything, just you. I know that you're married. I can be discreet. I just want to be with you."
"I haven't been with another woman in a long time so maybe we can take it slow."
"How slow?" CJ played with the buttons on Abby's shirt. She was imagining what her breast would feel like.
"Maybe a little kissing. And when we are ready to move to the next step then we'll talk again."
"Maybe a lot of kissing. And I won't need to talk when you're ready. You just move on. And I will keep up."
"Oh, Claudia. I think I can fall in love with you."
"Good. Cause I am already in love with you."
XXXX
CJ and Abby fell into a routine, when Abby was not traveling they spent most days in the office working. Abby traveled a lot. She spent time with Jed in Washington, DC attending events with him. And sometimes she traveled for the Foundation or Barrington Company. She for all intents and purposes was the face of the Barrington family.
When they were alone together, CJ felt like a teenager. There was a lot of heavy petting and a lot of cold showers being taking. A part of her enjoyed stolen kisses here and there. Another part of her was getting incredibly frustrated. She needed more of a release, but she remembered Abby wanted to take it slow. And Abby was worth waiting for.
CJ walked in the barn to the flashing light of her answering machine. She pressed the button. "You have four new messages." The automated voice said.
Message 1: Hi CJ this is your mother. I haven't heard from you in a week, but I am going to assume you are still alive. Maybe you can confirm by calling me back.
"Ok, Mom. Got it, I should call."
"Message 2: Claudia, It's me. I will not be home as expected tomorrow. I am heading to Greece. I'll call you when I get on the plane. Hope your home by then. I miss your voice.
Message 3: Claudia Jean this is your sister. Brooke. Remember me. Don't think I have forgotten that you are supposed to tell me about that sexy boss of yours. Have you two done it, yet? Cause if you haven't I'm thinking about switching teams maybe she'll take the brighter, sexier sister.
"Fat chance, Sis."
Message 3 continued: Anyways, call me. If not call Mom so she can stop driving me and Dad crazy about whether you're eating enough.
"Check, call Mom."
Message 4: Tomorrow a plane will be waiting for you on the tarmac at 10 am. I want you in Greece with me Claudia. Bring a bikini.
"Bikini. I can do that." Her phone rang.
"Hello."
"Awe Damn, I was about to ask your answering machine to spend the rest of its life with me." CJ smiled at the sound of Abby's voice.
"Well, I can hang up and you can whisper sweet nothings to it. But it doesn't love you quite the way I do."
"Oh well. Then I guess I'll keep you. Have you packed?"
"I just got the message."
"You work too hard."
"Well I have a demanded boss. She has these unrealistic expectations."
"You should tell her that your girlfriend said you need to be home when she calls." Girlfriend, CJ liked the sound of that.
"Well, I'll tell her, but I have a major crush and I don't want to rock the boat." She heard Abby laugh. "What should I bring besides a bikini?"
"A toothbrush."
"Cute Abby. But I may actually need something to put on."
"Why? I will be done with what I need to do by the time you get here. The resort has suite service. And I don't plan on letting you leave the suite so you won't need to wear clothes."
"Abby…"
"I'm letting you know that slow is no longer working for me. If you're not ready…"
"I'm ready. Really Really ready."
"Oh Claudia, I've kept you waiting too long. I'll see you tomorrow. Get some rest."
She hung up the phone. 'Yeah right like I am going to rest after that.' She picked up the phone and called her mother. Then went upstairs to pack; she forgot to ask how long they were going to be there.
XX
Abby looked around suite; everything was perfect. Dinner would be arriving an hour after CJ got here. She needed to dress. She put on a black lace teddy. She had spent an entire day looking for something in shops all over Paris. She wanted everything to be perfect. When she saw the teddy tucked in the back of the store she wasn't sure it would work. Then she put it on, it had a plunging V neck and was completely backless. What material was there covered her flaws and she was grateful for that.
At 42 and after 2 children, Abby had kept in really good shape. However, she wasn't fooling herself into thinking that she looked exactly like she did at 27. She didn't want CJ to see her and run in the other direction. So, she thought they would work their way up to seeing her completely naked. She slipped in a formfitting green dress. Just as she completed putting the final touches on her makeup she heard the door to the outer portion of the suite.
"Hey you." Abby said. CJ just stood there, mouth open. "Claudia close your mouth." Abby kissed her softly at first and then more passionately.
"Wow!" was all CJ could manage. "Wow."
"Thank you, Claudia."
"You look amazing. I mean that's the only word I can come up with. Now if you give me a few hours I'm sure I can find something else, but I am really going to need a thesaurus."
"You really do wonders for my ego."
CJ kissed her some more pushing Abby up against the table in the middle of the room. She wanted to take her time but being this close to Abby was making it difficult to remember the restraint speech she gave herself on the plane. Luckily, when CJ reached for the zipper on her dress Abby stopped her.
"Claudia you are ruining my seduction plan."
"Mmmm. I would apologize but I'm not sorry."
"Claudia, please." Abby titled her head back so CJ would have better access to her neck. "Please. Dinner will be here soon. Don't you want to shower?"
CJ stepped back. She took a hard look at Abby. CJ noticed the insecurity. "OK Abby sure. I'll shower. I hope you got something good for dinner, cause I'm hungry." She kissed Abby again and headed towards the bed room. "I guess the shower is this way." Abby nodded at her back. She turned around before closing the door. "Abby, I brought a bikini and a toothbrush per your request, and pretty much nothing else. If you wanna have dinner and fall asleep in each other's arms tonight, I can be ok with that. But you should know that I think you are the sexiest woman ever, and I really really really want you." Abby let out a heavy breath. CJ chuckled. "Abby, I really need you to be more confident." With that she got in the shower.
To be continued…