Page 54 of Abundant Moon
“Yes, and no. I thought I did, but I don’t want to leave your family yet.”
Evan smiled at his faithful nanny, already aware of what Ben was going to say.
“I chose Linda Kilburn for the position, and she accepted. Not because you weren’t qualified, but because your work here isn’t finished. We need you, Lance, and hope you’ll stay for at least another year - if you’re willing.”
Lance’s scent and glistening eyes revealed what he could not say.
“I will. Thank you, Ben.”
“You’re welcome, though you might be needed on occasion to help out in a pinch. Linda tells me she’s open to your ideas and feedback any time.”
Ben took pity on Lance and steered the conversation to another part of his plan.
“The school will operate in a similar fashion, with fees to cover the cost of curriculum, supplies, and teacher salaries. It will be overseen by the Education Committee, made up of the two of you plus all teachers. There are a surprising number of pack members with higher degrees, and if we need more committee members, we can tap some of them.”
Curious, Evan asked who Ben selected for the teaching staff in the fall.
“Well, there’s you for history, Zane and Trisha Metcalf for math and English, Donna Follett for science, and William for social studies. Some subjects like music, art, computers, and language arts will be done with shorter modules by guest instructors. The Cooks pack has had a school for years, and they’ve agreed to send some of their teachers over for subjects we can’t cover.”
Evan leaned over to give Ben a kiss on the cheek.
“It sounds like a good plan, babe. I think the pack will be excited about the changes. When does the daycare open up?”
“Linda would start tomorrow if we had everything on hand! She needs help making a list of supplies and ordering whatever we can’t get locally. After we get the carpet replaced, she’s planning a work day to clean and decorate the Quad. I’m guessing a week from Monday will be our first day if don’t run into any problems.”
Lance was all smiles; excited to take part in the project.
“Tell Linda I’ll go shopping with her on Saturday. If she needs help finding things, I know some good on-line stores for supplies and equipment. The daycare is going to help so many of our families. I can’t wait for it to open!
Chapter 30
EARLY MAY
Ben’s carefully orchestrated construction schedule lay in ruins. Two major contracts fell through due to financing issues and he needed something to take their place. Otherwise, he’d be looking at lay-offs, tight budgets, and delayed proposals of his own for the entire season. He, Nolan, and Tom were ensconced in his office, trying to decide on possible cuts and reduced crew assignments when the phone rang. Ben paused their discussion to answer it.
“Hello Carol Jo. What can I do for you?”
“Good morning Mr. Blair! I’m hoping you will consider a project that’s fallen into my hands recently. I know you’re probably booked up for the year, but I thought I’d ask anyway.”
Intrigued, Ben put the call on speaker before continuing.
“As it happens, some of my jobs have fallen through and I’m looking for more work. Why don’t you tell me about it?”
“Oh dear! I’m sorry to hear that, but it gives me hope! While I researched opportunities for you, I discovered the owner of the Delta Avenue Apartments wanted to sell. I’ve joined an investment group to purchase the property and it’s sadly in need of renovation. I know this isn’t your specialty, but Natural Homes has a reputation for quality work. Would you be interested?”
