Macgowan Meets His Match

“I hope you’ll find your stay here satisfactory,” he said. He stood, wincing as he straightened his left leg. “I’ll have Hazel show you to your room.”

He touched a button on the extension phone next to his chair and Jenna heard Hazel’s voice. “Yes?”

“I believe Ms. Craddock and I have dealt with the necessary hiring procedures. Will you show her to her room, please?”

“Certainly.”

Jenna rose and walked to the door. When she opened it, she saw Hazel striding down the hallway toward her. As Jenna stepped through the doorway, Ian spoke again. “Ms. Craddock?”

She turned. “Yes?”

“Do I have your permission to call you Jenna?”

She doubted the sincerity of his conciliatory tone. With a regal nod, she answered, “Yes.”

His lips twitched. “Well, then, welcome aboard, Jenna. I would appreciate your returning as soon as you’ve settled in. I hope you won’t feel too rushed to begin working today. As you’re aware, I’ve been without help for some time.”

She lifted one brow and said, “Imagine that,” before quietly closing the door behind her.