Chapter Fourteen
Joe came into work the next day with a clear purpose. His work for the week was nearly finished. He just had to finish up looking over a few contracts and wanted to talk to Charlene about the trip.
Joe knew the next few weeks would be very busy with the end of the year coming up. Books being edited took first priority while contracts would be looked over as well. There would be many meetings about deadlines and copy in the office. Joe was looking forward to his time away from work.
As he entered the building and passed by Charlene, he waved for Charlene to follow him into his office. She left her desk quickly and followed Joe., straightening up her dress as she walked.
“Sit down Charlene. How are you today? I called the travel agency yesterday and reserved my place on the trip, Charlene.”
“Well, that solves one problem Mr. Monore.”
“Yes, and I think I will get my refund as well.”
“I know it isn’t much consolation after all you’ve been through Joe, but it’s better than another kck in the teeth.” Charlene quickly looked at the floor. “Sorry boss.”
“No, your right about that Charlene. I just want to be sure we have an understanding about our situation.”
Charlene had a very clear understanding of the situation.
“If you come on the trip, you will be traveling as coworker and nothing more.” “Yes Joe, I know that, obviously.”
Unknown to Joe, they would be sleeping together in the same kingsized beds in all the camps as had been reserved for Suzan and Joe, by Charlene. Charlene could have rearranged the sleeping arrangements for twin beds after the engagement went to pieces but that would have defeated the whole purpose of the trip, after all. She was sure she could make Joe love her before the trip was over. Sleeping together was part of her plan.
Charlene was above average in looks, or so she thought. She looked up at as he sat at his desk, with her soft blue eyes and listened to every word he spoke.
“We must be careful to keep this trip on a professional level even if it is sort of a vacation as well, Charlene. I think we should look on it as a business trip among coworkers.”
“I have no problem with that Joe.”
“I’ll be working on some travel articles or a book and will be busy talking photos as well.”
“That’s great Joe. That should keep your mind occupied. I will simply be on a vacation of a lifetime and along to help if needed. I’m fine with that situation.”
Charlene knew all the information about the value of Joe and Suzan’s life insurance policies and who the beneficiaries were. It was Joe and Suzan, of course. Charlene had done all leg work getting an agent and sending in the paperwork for the policies. If something happened to Suzan before she or Joe changed or cancelled the policies, that money would go to Joe. She had double checked on that. The policies were still in affect. Joe was still Joe in that regard.
Charlene thought that money might help Joe get a head start on the next phase of his life and Charlene wanted to be a part of that. She had no idea what the near future held for her or Joe, but she was formulating a plan.
The next few weeks at work passed quickly
Well, things are coming together for everyone, or so it seems.
More tomorrow, after tennis and a nap.
Remember, my travel photos are going up everyday on TikToc at R.C. Hand22252
I’m finishing up our Route 66 phots everyday. The Balkan and London photos are up now in the middle of the Route 66 pictures. Don’t miss them.