When she approached her apartment door she noticed her bucket sitting against it. She looked in and was relieved to see that the mice were gone. She grabbed the bucket and headed straight for her closet. After a quick assessment of her wardrobe, she selected a black and white floral print skirt with a simple blouse in a muted pastel green. She completed the look with modest black heels. Looking in the mirror, she decided to leave her hair down so she didn’t look too formal. She added some blush to her cheeks and a clear gloss to her lips before heading out the door.

Sophie grabbed her phone and dialed her mother’s number. When the answer machine picked up, she left her a quick message. Before she tucked her phone in her bag she sent a text to Jack.

Sophie: Heading off to a job interview with Mrs. Darcy. Wish me luck.

 

Jack: Wow…you don`t mess around. Good luck.

 

She’d lost touch with the few friends she had in high school after they graduated. Mel was the only person she considered close. Sophie had gotten used to keeping to herself and never really reached out to anyone. Mel was always losing her phone, but she usually just showed up when she wanted to chat, or Sophie would go upstairs if she knew she was home. They had an unusual friendship but it worked for them.

The thought of having someone to chat with regularly had its appeal. She liked the idea of sending Jack a message whenever she wanted to share. This new relationship had its benefits and it felt safe. He only wanted friendship and that’s exactly what it was.

Chapter Five

Sophie walked up to the grand house on Simons Street where Mrs. Darcy lived. It was in an older part of the city that had aged gracefully. Large maple trees lined the street, big enough to form an archway down the entire length. In front of Mrs. Darcy’s house, stone statues flanked the end of the short driveway supporting a black iron gate. The house was almost as large as the lot on which it sat. Sophie looked up at its stone exterior and couldn’t help but be impressed. It was beautiful with so much rich character. The exterior of the house as well as the garden were well cared for. It was absolutely breathtaking.

Sophie walked up to the large wooden door and knocked. A few moments later the door opened, revealing a well-postured older woman, dressed in a beautiful blue dress. Her gray hair was swept up in a perfect chignon with warm, inviting features.

“Hello, dear, aren’t you a beautiful sight. I knew you would be lovely from the sound of your voice. Come in.” Mrs. Darcy’s voice had a buttery quality that made it warm and comforting. She held out her hand and formally introduced herself.

“Thank you.” Sophie followed her into a formal living room. The furniture was crisp and fresh but looked as if it could have been original to the house.

Mrs. Darcy poured tea as they discussed the position. She was looking for someone to start immediately to assist in her daily activities, drive her to appointments, and help her organize her social functions. The duties fluctuated based on Mrs. Darcy’s daily needs. The hours were very flexible and the pay was more than she had hoped, making it even more appealing.

“I have a feeling this will be a wonderful fit.” Mrs. Darcy smiled as she led Sophie on a tour around her house. “You have a good energy about you, Sophie.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Darcy. Your home is very lovely. ” Sophie looked around at all the beautiful art that was displayed in the home. Mr. Darcy was definitely wealthy. Every detail of the house looked expensive.

“Please call me Margaret.” She reached for Sophie’s hand, taking it in both of hers. “I am a big believer in fate, Sophie. I learned a long time ago to trust my feelings. We are going to be great friends. I can feel it.” Her blue gray eyes sparkled.

“I think so too.” Sophie smiled. There was something about Margaret that made Sophie trust her; she seemed so pure of heart. “I should inform you that I don’t have a vehicle, will that be a problem?”

“No, definitely not. I have several. When can you start, dear?” Margaret questioned hopefully.

“Immediately…well, sort of. I currently have another job at a restaurant not far from here, but I can work my schedule around yours. Though, I do have a few more weeks before I graduate art school. I can bring you a copy of my schedule. Once school is out I’ll be a lot more flexible.”

“That would be lovely. Why don’t you come by tomorrow afternoon?” Margaret didn’t seem at all worried about a conflicting schedule.

“Thank you, Margaret, it was very nice to meet you.” Sophie left with a good feeling about the position.

She pulled out her phone and sent Jack a message.

Sophie: Got the job!

 

Jack: Congrats.

 

Sophie: Thanks. I owe you big!

 

Jack: I will hold you to it ;)

 

Sophie: Gotta run to catch my bus. Talk soon.

 

Jack: I hope so.

 

Mel was shuffling around in Sophie’s apartment when she arrived home. “Hey girl!” She hollered from Sophie’s small kitchen. She had learned long ago not to be startled by Mel’s unexpected presence.

“Do locks ever keep you out?” Sophie complained with a chuckle.

“Nope. How was last night? Did you love the dresses?” Mel came around the corner with a cereal box in her hand. “What one did you wear?”

“Um…I wore the dark red one and it certainly drew attention.”

“I know, right? Your boobs must have been busting right out.” She laughed. “I was trying to get you laid. I have known you two years and not once have you dated anyone, let alone got any.”

“Mission failed.” Sophie rolled her eyes. “Besides, you get enough for both of us.”

“True.” She smiled deviously. “You coming to see my show? You always say you will but you never do.” Mel pouted.

“I have never been to a strip club. It’s intimidating. Besides, I see enough of you already.” Sophie indicated toward her tube top and short skirt.

“We’re having a big promo night coming up and I am supposed to recruit some hot friends to make the audience more appealing to the male guests.” Mel looked at her sheepishly.

“No way,” Sophie barked.

“Oh come on. You don’t have to do anything but hang around and look hot. You will get paid.” Mel knew how desperate Sophie was for cash at the moment.

“Paid?” Sophie looked at Mel skeptically.

“Yes. You’ll just be eye candy and I promise you won’t have to take anything off.” Mel smiled.

“Good, ’cause that wouldn’t happen.”

“Say yes. You’re like the hottest person I know and you’ll make the boys want to empty their wallets and…” Mel buttered Sophie.

“Don’t.” Sophie stopped the rant of comments she knew was coming. “I’ll think about it. When is it?”

“Next Friday night.” Mel jumped up and down, wrapping her arms around Sophie. “You’re the best.”

“I didn’t say yes,” Sophie reminded her.

“I know but you didn’t say no either. Gotta run. You’re out of milk, by the way.” She said as she slipped out the door.

Sophie sighed and shook her head. Mel always talked her into crazy things. Mel was a wild card that Sophie was drawn to. Her whole life Sophie had felt the weight of responsibility. She never learned to let go and enjoy life. Mel was refreshing and made Sophie realize there was more to life than the struggle to get ahead. It was usual to find Mel in her kitchen in the middle of the night raiding her cupboards, looking for someone to talk to. It was her favorite time with Mel.