© Copyright 2001 by Meag Brorman
Chapter One
Amanda Whiteside flopped dejectedly onto the couch.
“But do you really have to move? There are plenty of secretarial jobs here in La Vernia.”
Alexandra Campbell shook her head as she taped up yet another packing box. “You just don’t understand. I love La Vernia, but San Antonio will offer so much more. And it’s not like I’ll be that far away. San Antonio is just a short drive away. Anyhow, I feel like I’m supposed to go there, like there’s a reason. Call me stupid but…” Lexa trailed off.
“Oh, you’re not stupid. I just feel like I’m loosing my best friend. I know this job sounds great, but what if you don’t get it? Then what?”
“Then I’ll just trust in God and go look for another one,” Lexa
said cheerfully. She went on firmly, “I know I’m making the right decision. Don’t worry so much. Shouldn’t you be helping me pack anyway?” she asked teasingly.
Mandy giggled. “But it’s so much more fun watching you!”
She joined Lexa on the floor and started packing books.
“Look, if you’re okay with this, then I guess I can live with it. Just be expecting lot’s of phone bills from me!”
“You’ve got it! I’m going to grab another box and start doing kitchen stuff.”
“’Kay.”
Lexa walked into the kitchen. She was going to miss this place. She’d tried not to get too attached when she’d moved in two years ago, but it was hard. She had few things to call her own and this little cottage reminded her of her grandmother’s house in North Dakota where she’d grown up. Her grandmother. Oh how she missed her! Lexa had decided after graduating high school that she would go to college in San Antonio where she’d lived with her parents until a car accident took their lives when she was three. Her grandmother was her rock. She’d taken in an orphaned child and raised her when she should have been enjoying retirement. Lexa thanked God daily for such a wonderful grandmother.
Lexa pulled herself out of her reverie. She said a quick prayer for her grandmother and got back to work. She had to be in San Antonio in three days and her possessions weren’t going to pack themselves. She turned on some music and started packing dishes.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Sarah Burke watched the woman walk through the door of her brother’s new office. She was a beautiful woman. Blond hair in a stylish chignon, green eyes that rivaled spring grass, and fair skin every woman envied. She was slight and petite, why she even looked up to Sarah, who was no Amazon!
“I’m sorry, we’re not open yet, so if you wanted to see Mr. Burke you’ll have to come back in two weeks.”
“As a matter of fact I do need to see Mr. Burke.” She smiled calmly. “I’m Alexandra Campbell and I’m here for an interview for the secretarial position.”
“Oh yes, of course. Cam mentioned you’d be coming by. I’m sorry he’s not here today, but he got held up in a meeting. I guess I’ll just have to conduct the interview. Please, have a seat.”
Lexa calmly took a seat. Sarah was amazed at her composure. There wasn’t the smallest hint of nervousness about her. Sarah wondered how she would act in this situation.
Lexa’s insides were shaking. How did she ever think she could do this? She should have stayed with her old job. The library had been a safe, comfortable place. No! She reminded herself. I know this is where I’m supposed to be! I just know it. Now calm yourself down Alexandra Marie Campbell. You can do this! Easier said than done.
The lady across the desk didn’t help matters. She looked every inch the professional that Lexa was not. She was striking lady with blue-black hair, violet eyes, and slightly olive-toned skin. Lexa wondered who she was. She couldn’t be the secretary because this was a new business and this position was the only one needed as of right now.
“Oh my goodness!” The lady looked distraught. “Forgive me. I’m Sarah Burke, Mr. Burke’s sister. I’m filling in as secretary until someone permanent can be hired, which I hope is soon,” Sarah added with a chuckle. “It’s a trial working for family!
Lexa smiled and her nerves calmed down a bit. Sarah seemed nice enough. Maybe this wouldn’t be as bad as she’d originally thought.
“Okay, let’s get this interview started,” Sarah said brightly.
The interview went well. Sarah asked about prior work experience, general information, then asked for a resume. Then she went on to explain what the job would entail.
“I can’t tell you exactly what this job will entail. I guess the best way to put it is a personal assistant and secretary all rolled into one. You seem to be qualified enough for it too. We have two more interviews coming in on Monday, but I wouldn’t worry about it too much. Like I said, your well qualified for the job and besides, I like you!”
Lexa relaxed at those words. She really hoped she got the job. The pay was good, the office was in a great part of town, and if Cameron Burke was as great as his sister was, they’d get along great.
Sarah stood up. “Just one word of advice. If and when you get the job, don’t take anything Cam says personally. He can be a bit of a bear at times, but he’s all growl. Just show him your not scared of him and he’ll leave you alone. Now either Cam or I will be calling you sometime next week to let you know whether or not the job is yours.”
Lexa stood too. “Thank you so much. I really hope this works out. I feel like God wants me here and I don’t wish to disappoint him.”
Sarah smiled. “Well don’t worry. I’ll put a good word in for you with God and Cam.”
“I’d appreciate it.”
Lexa stepped out into the late February sunshine. It was so nice to find good Christian people in the area. She hoped that she and Sarah could become friends. She really liked her.
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