Page 5 of Halstead House

“Yes, ma’am. I took the tour twice,” I replied.

“What did you think?” She leaned back in her chair and clasped her jeweled fingers together. Her fingernails were perfectly manicured. I wanted to tuck mine under my legs.

“I think it’s probably the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen.”

Her lips relaxed into a soft smile at the obvious sincerity. “Well, on that we can agree. You’ve been told that I’m looking for an assistant event planner?”

I nodded.

“I handle the events, the charitable fundraising, the advertising, the household staff, and really anything else that has to do with Halstead House itself. It’s becoming a bigger job, and I need an assistant. Someone with experience.”

“I understand. I have experience in all those areas.”

“Well, it’s easy to say so, but with no resume and no references it would be difficult for me to verify that.” One eyebrow raised slightly in timeless challenge.

I had seen worse. I lifted my chin a notch and calmly met her look. “Of course. However, you understand that I did not come here looking for a job, nor do I carry a resume in my purse in case tour guides attempt to drop one in my lap.”

Ms. Halstead’s face was unreadable for a moment before a large grin broke out. “Very well said. Now, tell me your name and all about you.”

I relaxed and returned the smile, although I kept it small and demure as I’d been taught. No one liked all those teeth flashing in their faces, Mother’s voice reminded. “My name is Grace Burke. I’m from Rhode Island. I’ve been working as an exhibit and content coordinator for the State Historical Society. I also do a lot of fundraising volunteer work in the area.”

“Grace Burke, you say?” She tapped her manicured finger to her lips. “From Providence?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She shook her head as if clearing it. “No, it would be too great a coincidence,” she mumbled to herself while continuing to look me over. Finally, she seemed to come to a conclusion and she leaned forward in her chair. “Is there any chance you knew my great aunt, Mary Reed?”

At the mention of Mary’s name, I let my smile grow. “Yes. She was my... well... adopted grandmother, I suppose.”

“You’re George and Lillian’s daughter?” Ms. Halstead was beaming now, her smile so like Mary’s that I was surprised to find happy tears threaten.

“I am.”

“How wonderful. If I remember correctly, she always called you her ‘sweet Gracie’. Mary told me several times how much she wanted you to see Halstead House and to meet us all.”

“Yes. It’s all she spoke of while I was growing up,” I replied.

“I do believe she left you some pictures when she passed away?” She leaned back again, a nostalgic smile on her face.

“Yes. I still have them.”

“How lovely that you’ve found your way to us at last.”

I nodded, yet again.

“And Steven tried to offer you a job. Mary would just love this twist!”

I too could imagine Mary’s delighted laughter over this turn of events. She was dancing a heavenly jig, for sure.

“Actually, ma’am, I really would love the job if you feel I’m qualified,” I said. The words popped out so suddenly and without thought that my smile died and I pressed my fingertips to my mouth in surprise.

“I’m sure you’d be perfect for the job, dear, but don’t you have a job in Providence?”

I cleared my throat and dropped my hand. “Yes, I’d have to be a temporary solution, but I took a three-month sabbatical and can stay through June.”

“Three months?”

“Yes. I might be having a mid-life crisis.” More unplanned words popped out.

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