Drive and Determination by Kara Louise Read Free Book Online Page B

his free hand gently against her back and gave her a nudge. “Shall we go?”
            Elyssa smiled. “Thank you.”
            As they walked, George congratulated himself on offering to pick Elyssa up and take care of any needs that arose while she was in Guatemala. He just happened to be in John Walker’s office when the phone call came from Mrs. Reed telling them that Miss Barnett was arriving and needed someone to pick her up, take her to the Blakelys’ apartment or a hotel, and help her with whatever else she might need.
            Remembering this pretty young lady with a very fine figure, he figured it would be a most pleasant chore.
            The Walkers gladly accepted George’s offer when they had some guests unexpectedly drop by and this made it much easier for them.
            As George looked down furtively and watched Elyssa walking along by his side, he thought how much prettier she looked tonight than the day of the funeral. He recalled how she had been crying and did not look her best that day, although his attention had centered mainly on her younger sister, who seemed to have a very flirtatious personality and a lot of energy. He often thought he would like to have gotten to know that sister a little better.
            As he looked at Elyssa, he believed that if he really poured on the charm, there might be some sort of reward from her in return. Considering the reason for her visit, however, he reminded himself that he would have to take it slow.
            “You know, Elyssa, your sister Janet was certainly well liked by everyone that knew her. Just the other day, I talked with a lady who lives down the street and she could not stop talking about what a sweet, generous young lady she was.”
            “That is very comforting to hear, George. I am so glad she had such an impact on people’s lives here.”
            Elyssa felt that all too familiar lurch inside that indicated an onslaught of tears was on its way. She turned her head away from George and gave a slight tremble, which did not escape his notice.
            “I can only imagine what a difficult time this is for you.” He pulled out a clean handkerchief he had pocketed just before leaving for the airport and handed it to her.
            “Thank you.” Elyssa wiped her eyes. “And I’m sorry. I just never know when the grief is going to spill out again.”
            “No need to apologize to me.” George brought his hand up and gently squeezed her shoulder. “You will come through this, Elyssa. I can see there is great strength in you.”
            “You are too kind.”
            They came to George’s car and he popped open the trunk, putting Elyssa’s suitcase inside and then closing it. Walking over to the passenger side of the door, he unlocked it and opened it for her, taking her elbow in his hand as he handed her in.
            George walked around to the driver’s side and slid in. He started the engine and turned to her, “Now, where would you like to go? Do you want to go by Chad and Janet’s townhouse, should I take you to a hotel, or would you like to stop somewhere and get a bite to eat?”
            “If you don’t mind, I think I would prefer to stay at their home. That way I can start early and work as late into the night as I want. I don’t want to be a bother to anyone having to drive me back and forth.”
            “Are you sure? Pemberleo has a very nice suite in a nearby hotel for our clients and it wouldn’t be a bother at all for me to drive you back and forth. I’m available any hour of the day… or night.”
            “I am quite sure. Thank you, George.” She reached down to fasten her seatbelt. “I understand they lived in a townhouse with the Walkers living