Page 51 of Mail Order Splash

He nodded, then went on. “Dalton has been filling me in on your situation and you have a fairly large problem on your hands. That’s not to say we can’t beat it, but they could make it worse on you.”

“Worse how?”

“They could close you down, stop you from doing rescues at least the ones you must bring back to the facility with you.”

“That can’t happen, Kleine, we know that already.” Dalton sat next to me.

“I can’t afford to pay you. I feel I must tell you up front.” I looked to Victoria. “I came to you for sponsorship, not a handout.”

“I realize that, dear, but Dalton is fully committed in this venture. He wants to help you, and Hawthornes stick together.”

“We’ve had two meetings and many phone calls. Kellan wanted to meet with you first to see what you’d be willing to do,” Dalton said.

“Dr. Schaffer, the city isn’t going away easily, not with all the money they hope to make by, basically, stealing your property. The way I see it, the best thing you could do is to sell it to us. They will most likely drop the fines, then Dalton will take over as the chairperson to bring it back to what you both decide.”

“I don’t want to sell it. It’s been in my family over fifty years.” I felt the nerves starting. “Is this the only option available?”

“Basically, yes. We could put up a fight, spend a lot of money and resources, and they very likely would deny anything we request,” Kellan answered. “The Hawthorne name carries weight but, without it being owned by a Hawthorne, the fight is harder.”

“Can they steal my property?”

“They can and are about to. Your back taxes are due in less than two weeks.” Kellan paused. “Do you have money for all three years?”

“I have enough for one year, which should keep any deeds from cashing in. I’ve been playing that game for years now.”

“Okay, but because they want your property, in a bad way I might add, they will play hardball on the fines and liens. I spoke with the city attorney. They are adding at least ten more violations and are prepared to shut you down.”

“They are heartless. This is awful.” I fought back tears.

“Kellan had a contract written up to sell to us, with you as CEO of the charity. You would still be in charge.”

“But it wouldn’t be mine. I would have lost all my family worked for, the legacy, everything.”

“Dr. Schaffer, you are going to lose it anyway. At least, this way, you are in control.”

“I have to think about this. It’s not what I thought was going to happen today. I’m so sorry to have wasted anyone’s time.” I pushed my chair back and ran from the office.

Tears poured down my cheeks as I ran down the emergency stairs. I knew Dalton would follow to the elevator trying to stop me, but I needed time. I needed to get away.

I left Josh in there. I wasn’t thinking. Should I go back for him? That was rude of me. No, he’ll find me, he always does.

I pushed through the stairway doors, bringing me into the lobby. Regret for my behavior had set in several floors down. I knew I had to go back and thank them for their time. I would find another sponsor, I had to. The elevator stood open in front of me, calling me in. Slowly, I stepped inside, pushed the appropriate button, and waited.

“Kleine, are you alright?” Josh stood at the elevator door. “I was going to find you.”

“Sorry, that shouldn’t have happened. I was raised better. I need to go in and apologize.”

“Are you accepting the offer?”

“No, Josh, I can’t give it up that easy. Maybe I’ll get tv crews to do a piece on us.”

“I asked questions. It sounds bad; maybe you consider it.”

“Do you hear what you’re asking me?” I walked past him into the office.

“Kleine, thank you for coming back.” Victoria motioned to come all the way in.

“I only came back to thank you for time spent on it, but I can’t do it.” All I could do was look down. “It was wrong of me to run out like that. Please accept my apology.”

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