Page 36 of The Exposed Heiress

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

The woman said, “It’s fine. We had a chance to talk.”

He closed the door when she left.

Emma stood up. “I’ve several more meetings with employees.”

He nodded. “I know.” Tension flowed through his body.

She took in a deep breath. “Do you want to join me...?”

He shook his head. “No.”

She looked at him. “So what’s up?”

He glanced past her. “We’re doing the right thing. The only thing that’s possible at this point.”

She nodded and waited for him to continue.

Leo rested his hands on the table. “I want you to tell employees that there is a special fund set up to help in emergencies. If someone can’t find work and needs help with rent or food that they can let you know and you’ll take care of it.”

Emma rubbed her arms. “We don’t have a fund like that.”

He said, “I’m going to set it up with ten thousand pounds from my private funds and you can disburse as needed.”

She folded her arms over her stomach. “I know this is difficult but you don’t have to feel responsible. People have families and friends that they can rely on. We are giving a small severance package and they’ll be eligible for benefits.”

He straightened his spine. “I can afford it.”

Her eyes glistened. “Yes, but you don’t have to take this on.”

He held her gaze. “My mother found herself in a difficult place when I was young. My father had left and she lost her job. It wasn’t long before we were on the street. It doesn’t take much for someone who’s vulnerable. So I want you to offer everyone a safety net.”

She nodded. “Okay. I will, Leo. Don’t worry.”

He said, “Let’s meet at six o’clock and get dinner?”

“We’ll probably need a drink.”

He opened the door and the next employee waiting came into the conference room.

He ran a hand through his hair and decided to talk with the solicitor about the building. It was important to keep moving forward and not allow the stressed atmosphere to stall their progress.

* * *

Emma closedher eyes and leaned back in the conference room chair. She had spoken with every employee today. Some wanted to reminisce about Francis Bolles years ago, remembering emotional moments or speaking about her grandparents. Many of the younger workers wanted to talk about the future.

Exhausted, she stood up and stretched her back. She texted Jeremy. He had promised to visit her father today, but he hadn’t called her.

She went to her father’s office and knocked on the closed door before walking in.

Leo and Peter Lake sat at the table going over details of the contract.

Peter stood and said, “Hello, Ms. Bolles.”

“Please, call me Emma. I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

Leo glanced at her and smiled. “We’re almost finished. I promised Peter a walk-through, and then we can head out.”

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