Page 24 of The Flyboy's Girl
“Thank you.” I watch as she walks to what I assumed to be Mr. Palmer’s office.
When she returns, she smiles politely. “He will be with you shortly.”
Nodding my appreciation, I return her smile and wait. A few minutes later, Mr. Palmer emerges from his office and walks to the waiting area to meet me. “Miss Thorpe?”
“Yes.” I stand to meet him.
He’s younger than I expected, perhaps in his early thirties. Sandy blond hair cut short, and a black suit that fit him perfectly, his kind brown eyes smiled as he offered me his hand in greeting. “Dwayne Palmer, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Likewise, Mr. Palmer,” I give his hand a firm shake like my dad has taught me. “Thank you for seeing me.”
Releasing my hand, he indicated towards his office, “If you will follow me, we’ll get started.”
Following him inside his office, Mr. Palmer offers me a seat as he closes the door before making his way around his desk and taking a seat.
“Mrs. Masterson tells me you were inquiring about the secretary position.”
“Yes sir, that’s correct.”
“What experience do you have?”
“Honestly, this would be my first time being employed. I recently graduated from high school, but I did take both typing and shorthand.”
He’s silent for a moment, no doubt considering what I’ve said. Sitting forward he leans his arms on his desk, “I was hoping for someone with a little more experience, Miss Thorpe.”
Stealing myself against the disappointment of rejection, I listen as he continues.
“However, since I am also new to this position, I’m willing to give you a try.”
I breathe out a sigh of relief. “Thank you, Mr. Palmer,” I reply trying to contain my excitement.
“No need to thank me. Mrs. Masterson spoke very highly of you and is willing to take you under her wing.”
“She did?” I ask, unable to hide the surprise in my voice.
Chuckling at my surprise he says, “Yes, it seems you made quite an impression on her. And, believe me, that is no easy feat. Now, let’s go over what is expected of you, shall we?”
“Yes, of course.”
“Mr. Meyers our manager opens the bank in the morning and I close, so you’ll be expected to stay until closing. Your hours will be from nine to five daily, and the bank is closed on weekends and recognized holidays, with an hour for lunch. You’ll be responsible for taking care of my appointments and correspondence as well as filing and other duties with which I may need your assistance. Any questions?”
“When would you like me to start?”
He laughs lowly at my eagerness. “How about today?”
“Today would be fine.”
“Great,” he says as he rises from his seat. “Let’s get you out to Mrs. Masterson and she can show you around and get you settled in.”
Rising from my seat, once again I express my appreciation, “Mr. Palmer, thank you for giving me this opportunity. I won’t disappoint you.”
“It’s my pleasure Miss Thorpe,” he says as he opens the door and ushers me back to Mrs. Masterson.
“Mrs. Masterson, say hello to my new secretary, Miss Ruby Thorpe.”
Looking first to Mr. Palmer and then to me, Mrs. Masterson smiles, “Welcome Miss Thorpe.”
“Thank you.”
