“We could ask some of the businesses to carry fliers about it. They did that for the center’s dance fund-raiser.”
“Printing fliers costs money, too.” Benita hated to burst his bubble. “We’ll ask our friends for donations for the production. You’re not the only person who wants to support the center.”
“All right.” Vaughn’s agreement was reluctant, but at least he agreed.
“Good. I’ll take care of that.” Benita made a note on her to-do list.
“And all of the musical’s proceeds will go to the center.”
“What you’re doing is a beautiful gesture.” And in keeping with her knowledge of the man she’d grown up with. Vaughn Brooks had always had a generous heart.
“I’ve spoken with Ms. Helen and the center’s director. They’ve given me permission to perform the musical in the center’s activity room.”
“Wonderful. The event will allow us to showcase the center and bring its needs to the community’s attention.”
“Exactly.” Vaughn’s smile invited her to share his excitement.
Benita caught her breath again. It was time to go. “Well, is there anything else we need to cover?”
“I think that’s it.” Vaughn closed his folder.
“Then I’ll see you next Wednesday for the audition.” Benita stood. “Don’t schedule any dates for those days.”
Her face flamed. Why had she said that? Had she lost her mind? Benita ducked her head and feigned an absorption in collecting her purse and tote bag.
“I won’t.” Vaughn’s reply was soft. She felt him stand.
“I’m sorry.” Benita threw her notes and other belongings into her tote. “I don’t know what made me say that.”
“It’s all right.”
Of course it was all right—for him. He was the one dating again. No one had asked her out. And she didn’t want anyone else to ask her out.
Benita jerked her purse and tote bag onto her shoulder and rushed toward the door. “See you Wednesday.”
“Benita.”
She didn’t stop. Her plan of seduction hadn’t worked as well as she’d envisioned. Next time, she couldn’t allow past memories to make her fall apart. Her goal was too important. I want Vaughn back.
CHAPTER 11
“I’ve heard you’re producing a musical.” Nessa lowered herself onto one of the two guest chairs in Vaughn’s faculty office Thursday.
Vaughn watched the Trinity Falls Town Council president as she glanced around his office. Her expression was disapproving. Why? There was nothing wrong with his cozy home-away-from-home. His space was clean and well organized. Four oak bookcases were packed with textbooks and nonfiction literature. Two black metal file cabinets balanced a coffeepot, filters, and grounds. A black minifridge was tucked into a corner. But based on the look on Nessa’s face, one would think he’d strewn his underwear all over the room.
Why is Nessa here and why do I feel as though I’m under attack?
“Somehow I don’t think you’re here to congratulate me.” The best defense was a strong offense. He’d learned that lesson playing youth football.
“I’m afraid not.” Nessa’s smile turned cold as she held his gaze. “I took an early lunch to meet with you because this matter is too important to wait.”
“And too important for a phone call?”
“Yes.” Nessa crossed her right leg over her left, adjusting the crease in her dull brown slacks. Her cream blouse was buttoned to her neck. She’d tucked a small strand of fake pearls under her collar. “I’ve heard you plan to perform the play at the community center.”
“That’s right.” Vaughn sat back on his chair, balancing his right ankle on his left knee. “I spoke with Ron yesterday. He’s going to let us use the activity room June thirteenth.”
Ronald Kendall had been the Guiding Light Community Center’s director since Vaughn and his brothers had been in elementary school almost thirty years ago. He must be in his early seventies by now.