Page 18 of Lorna's Savior
“I’m not discouraging you, but why did you do it?”
“Because the aquarium isn’t just for rich people. People from all walks of life visit there every day. Hell, I mean, monk, I even sent invitations to local teachers. Everyone’s invitation includes a plus one. I’ve contacted the local colleges and sent invitations to all the students in the marine biology courses.”
“Damn, I never would have thought about that. Did the invites have RSVPs on them?”
“No. I’m not one to beg people for anything, let alone money. I feel that if the attendees really want to attend and donate money, then it’s not my job to pressure them into responding. I know I’m probably shooting my foot for that, but I wanted to try something new with this fundraiser.”
“Then I’ll leave you to it. I just wanted to touch base. You’ll let me know if you need any help with anything?”
“Of course, thank you for checking up on me.”
“No problem, Lorna. Again, if you need anything, please let me know.” Finn left when Lorna’s phone began to ring.
“Hello.”
“Is this the gal in charge of the aquarium fundraiser?”
“It is, who is calling, and why?”
“This is Mr. Marvin.”
“Oh, Mr. Marvin, hello. I’ve met you a few times over the years. I’m Lorna.”
There was a pause, then a chuckle. “Beautiful, curvy blonde, green eyes? Always flitting around behind the scenes. Janis tried to use you as a lapdog, but you wouldn’t cater to her BS.”
Laughing, Lorna nodded, though the caller couldn’t see her. “That’s me. What can I do for you, Mr. Marvin?”
“My assistant just showed me the invitation to the aquarium, but I have questions about it.”
“Okay, what are they?”
“What’s the dress code? Is there an RSVP date? How much for the dry chicken dinner? Where exactly is the address on this invitation?”
Laughing, Lorna responded. “Well, the dress code is clothes.” When the man on the other end of the line sputtered, then laughed, Lorna relaxed. It wasn’t every day she talked to a man richer than God, let alone have such a normal conversation with him. “I’m sure you’ve heard, or you will here, but Janis is no longer with the Larson Foundation. I now hold her position. I do things differently than she did. Though I won’t normally speak ill of someone, I feel I know you enough to tell you the truth.”
“That’s what I demand from everyone I do business with. The truth will set you free.”
“Exactly. Anyway, Janis only catered to people of your ilk, and I mean no offense by that, Marvin.”
“None taken. But, I see what you mean. What makes you different?”
“I’m having this fundraiser right there at the aquarium. You’ll be able to see where your donation will go. I’m also having the director, staff, and board of trustees available to answer any questions. Though there will be food, it won’t be a sit-down meal. I’ve got to meet with the caterer later this week, so I can’t really tell you what’s going to be served.”
“That’s fine, will there be drinks?”
“Yes. And the location you asked about, as I said earlier, the fundraiser is at the aquarium in question.”
“Very ingenious of you. If you ever want to leave the Larson Foundation, give me a call. I’d hire you in a heartbeat.”
Laughing, Lorna felt ten-feet tall. “Thank you, Marvin, but I’m perfectly happy right where I am. But, I will keep your offer in the back of my mind.”
“You do that. I look forward to seeing you again. I know there’s no date, but mark me down as coming. I’m unsure of my plus one yet, but I’ll definitely be there.”
“Thank you Marvin.” Lorna hung up and didn’t even realize she hadn’t joked about him bringing his checkbook. Somehow, she felt he never left home without it. That phone call with Mr. H. set up the rest of the day. She fielded calls all day about people wanting to know what was happening.
At four o’clock that afternoon, Lorna found herself knocking on Finn’s door. When he looked up and motioned her in, she came in and sat down heavily in the chair in front of his desk.
“Problem?”
