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	Star Light, Star Bright by: Dr. Idelia P. Phillips Chapter One “Hurry. Please hurry. They’re shooting at me!” Connor cried. “They’re trying to kill me!” Franklin would wait until Connor was safe before he had his well-deserved nervous breakdown. Right now he needed to maintain all of his wits to save his woman. He held onto the PCD (Personal Communication Device) as he and Mansour rushed out of the building. Hopefully, they would arrive at the abandoned building at the same time as the police. Otherwise, he couldn’t be responsible for his actions. Mansour drove like a madman. Connor could be wounded or worse yet, dead by now. Sensing the tension and fear in Franklin, he punched down on the accelerator another notch. With the heels missing from her shoes, Connor ran as fast as she could. Her leg muscles ached and her chest burned. Just a few more feet and she would be safe. She heard footsteps behind her. The ogres were gaining on her. She had to put some distance between her and her pursuers. Her very life depended on it. Connor felt her energy waning. Total collapse was but a few seconds away. Out of breath and out of her mind with fear, she didn’t think she would last much longer. The footsteps were getting closer. Tears welled in Connor’s eyes. She had lost the race against time. Just before everything faded to black, all of the events leading up to this moment flashed through her mind. Aiken, South Carolina… Monday morning. As soon as Connor walked into Burkart’s office, she smelled cow manure. She took one look at Brian Ferraro seated at the conference table, and the fetid smell increased exponentially. “Come in, Connor. Please sit down,” Burkart said, his eyes not focused on anything in particular. Connor snorted under her breath. Burkart was a short, ‘leaning toward obesity,’ balding excuse for a man. His beet red face and sweaty brow spelled trouble. Fidgety and nervous. Something was up. “Ah…Connor,” Burkart stammered. “I know of no other way to say this except to just say it. As you know, the Chief Legal Counsel position is vacant. You have served in that position as the acting chief for the past two months.” “After careful consideration, and with the concurrence of the president of Ellenton River Company, I am pleased to announce that Brian has been named as the new Chief Legal Counsel.” Connor heard it, but didn’t believe it. Could not believe it. Those thieves had robbed her. Robbed her of her promotion. If that wasn’t bad enough, they had given it to Brian Ferraro. That despicable Brian Ferraro was now her boss. A man who hadn’t given Ellenton a day’s worth of work since he arrived. Connor struggled to keep a bland expression on her face. She’d rather die than to show any reaction to Burkart’s treachery. Seconds later, Burkart added more fecal material to the pile at Connor’s feet. She was slowly, but surely sinking as the pile grew higher and deeper around her. “Connor, I’m sure that I can count on you to properly orient Brian in terms of his duties as Chief Legal Counsel. Also, I know that you will continue to perform as excellently as you have as the Acting Chief. I am confident that you will continue to give this office your loyalty and support.” Burkart’s jaw twitched slightly as he iterated those last words. Obviously, his lying mouth had caused his palms to sweat because he nervously wiped them on his trousers. Connor couldn’t move. She wanted to lash out at Burkart, both verbally and physically, but professionalism and pride won out. She would remain her namesake, the Ice Princess. Brian smirked while waiting for a reaction from Connor. His azure blue eyes cut back and forth between Connor and Burkart, as if waiting for the next chess move. The thoughts and fears that must have been running through his mind! Burkart was nailing the coffin shut on Connor’s future at Ellenton, and she wasn’t doing anything about it. What was she planning? Why didn’t she throw a tantrum or something? He knew that he would have. The Ice Girl was taking it all in stride, or was she? The humiliation of not getting the coveted promotion should have shattered her frosty facade. He had lived for this moment…to see the Ice Girl crushed to the ground. He would be disappointed, though. Frosty the Snow Girl all the way. No matter, she was his now. His servant. He had waited anxiously for this day. Now that their roles were reversed, he would enjoy being master to that uppity Connor Phillips. Connor, the brain. Brilliant scientist. Outstanding lawyer. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Not anymore. Nothing but a house slave now. Locked into servitude. If she played her cards right, and played them with him, she might reap some small token for her efforts. …Maybe. Slowly, the smirk started to wane from Brian’s face and a more concerned look replaced it. He was finally beginning to consider the chaos that he would face if Connor left. Burkart looked at Brian. He knew that Brian couldn’t handle this job. What could Burkart do? His hands were tied. Politics in the workplace. Burkart, at this point in his career, had to go with the flow. He was too close to retirement to rock the boat. Deep down he felt that surely Connor understood. Burkart chanced a glance at Connor. The look on his face indicated that he felt the unspoken pain behind Connor’s icy veneer. And by all rights, she should be hurt. For seven years she had worked her tail off. And for what? A hard bounce against the glass ceiling. Burkart could feel the tightening of his chest. If his guilty conscience didn’t kill him, Brian’s antics surely would. As long as he could keep Connor on board, everything would be okay. Two more years; that’s all he needed and everything would work out fine. It was widely believed by Burkart and others that Connor knew the score. She would remain loyal to the company and take everything in stride. Connor broke the silence of the room by rising to her feet. She walked over to Brian, shook his hand and offered an indifferent, “Congratulations.” To Burkart she uttered, “If you need me, I’ll be in my office.” She turned on her heel and walked out without another word to either of them. Inside her office, she sank down resignedly in her executive chair and sighed. “Well, it’s been real, but it’s time to move on.” No more Ellenton River Company for her. If this were how the company repaid loyalty and hard work, then she would be a fool to stay. Burkart didn’t fool her. He knew how this scenario would play. Connor would do all of the work and Brian would get the credit. As of a few minutes ago, she had become totally invisible in the eyes of upper management. They would bring her out of the closet only when the situation warranted it—like on ‘Happy Diversity Day.’ Connor had other ideas. She reached for her electronic organizer, found the number she wanted and placed a call to her friend, John Snoe. The owner and CEO of Techno-Executives, John was a major player in the headhunting business. She had met him in Atlanta several years ago. He had tried then to persuade her to make a move, warning her about the glass ceiling at Ellenton. She hadn’t listened, but she was all-ears now. While waiting for John to come on the line, Connor thought again about the first time she had met Brian. Brian had been transferred into her technology unit. He was a former magazine cover model who had gone to law school after his looks started to fade and the modeling contracts dried up. He had immediately begun to make sexual advances toward her. Because she wouldn’t play along, he had called her a cold fish. One day he had held a mock ceremony in the break room, pretending that it was her coronation as the Ice Queen of Ellenton River Company. Connor recalled vividly how he had tried to humiliate her by presenting her with a cardboard tiara and a bouquet of paper flowers. He and his cronies had a big laugh that day. To Brian’s dismay, Connor had taken the ugly little tiara and the paper flowers, curtsied and had thanked him with feigned grace. The laugh was on Brian and he cooled it after that. Unfortunately, today, with Burkart’s help, Brian had had the last laugh. Connor’s recollections were interrupted when she heard John Snoe’s voice on the line. “Connor Phillips. It’s been a while. How in the world are you? What can I do for you?” John Snoe greeted Connor warmly. “You can get me the heck away from Ellenton. That’s what you can do for me,” Connor replied. “So, you’ve finally hit the glass ceiling, huh kid?” John asked sympathetically. “Yes, I’m afraid so,” Connor admitted reluctantly. “The sooner you can get me away from here, the better.” Connor told John what had happened to her earlier that morning. “Well, Connor, you won’t have to wait long. As a matter of fact, a law firm in Tyler Cove, Texas, has contacted me. They need someone to provide expert legal representation in some sensitive negotiations with Ellenton River Company and the Department of Energy (DOE).” “What kind of negotiations with Ellenton?” Connor was curious. “The CRADA (Cooperative Research and Development Agreement) kind,” John said jokingly. “Cool. I can handle that.” “Then they’ll want you badly.” “When can you set up an interview?” “Give me a couple of days. In the meantime, fax a resume to me immediately. These guys are in a hurry. They have a new client that’s in the bioremediation business and could use your expertise right away.” John continued. “I’ll try to set up the interview next week some time. Can you get away from Ellenton for a few days?” “You bet I can. You just set it up and I’ll be there. If this opportunity doesn’t pan out, keep trying. I am determined to leave Ellenton before the month is out,” Connor declared. “What kind of notice do you have to give the company? You’re pretty high up on the totem pole, kid. Won’t your boss expect at least a month’s notice?” John inquired pointedly. “You let me worry about that.” “All right feisty lady. Handle your business.” “John, one more thing,” Connor said quietly. “Please don’t call me at my office. If you absolutely must speak with me during the day, call and leave a message with my secretary. Leave your name. No company name and no number. I’ll return your call at my earliest convenience. I don’t want anyone, particularly my boss to know what I’m planning.” “Connor, you know that I’ll do everything I can to help you and I’ll do it in a highly confidential manner.” She ended the call and turned to her computer screen. Her e-mail prompt was blinking. She read the message slowly. “Well, well. Burkart didn’t waste any time in announcing Brian’s big promotion,” Connor cogitated. She finished reading the message. “At least Burkart didn’t try to tout Brian’s qualifications for the job. He’s already told too many lies as it is.” Connor’s phone rang. It was one of her staff attorneys, Megan. “How dare Burkart do this?” Megan said vehemently. “Everyone knows that you should have gotten that promotion. Brian is nowhere near as qualified as you are. As a matter of fact, he isn’t qualified at all. It’s not fair.” “Megan, don’t worry about it. Life goes on. I’m sure that top management had their reasons for promoting Brian.” Connor winced as she said those last words. Had she actually said that? Megan had a tendency to repeat things out of context and Connor didn’t want to give her anything to misconstrue. “Megan, I appreciate the confidence you have in my abilities. Can I take a rain check on our commiserating? I have some files I need to review. Thanks so much for calling.” Knowing that she would not remain at Ellenton much longer, Connor began packing some of her things in boxes, shredded some documents, and erased some items from her computer’s hard drive. Up to now, Connor had enjoyed her career at Ellenton. It was all she had. It had become her family, her lover, her everything. Now, she had nothing. After today, she would go no further than where she was now…somebody’s assistant. The chief ’s position was out of her reach. Connor left Ellenton earlier than usual. She wouldn’t put in her customary extended hours any longer. What was the point? Besides, she had a lot on her mind and needed her privacy to think things through. As soon as Connor walked into her house and on into the den, she saw the blinking red light on the answering machine. She pushed the play button and listened to the only message. It was from John Snoe. “Martin and Dubois have reviewed your resume. They’ve even done a quick reference and background check. And, as I expected, they want to meet with you at your earliest convenience. Can you make it as early as Thursday of this week? Call me.” “Yes!” Connor shouted. If John Snoe’s prediction was on target, in less than a week she might have a new job. Connor walked into her bedroom and examined her body from head to toe. She saw a fairly attractive face. No makeup except a little lipgloss. Hair pulled back into a nondescript bun at the nape of her neck. White oxford shirt underneath a drab navy gabardine blazer with gold buttons. In a word, dull. It was time for a change. After two very important phone calls, one to Saks and the other to B’Elegant Salon, Connor grabbed her keys and rushed out of the door. By the time Connor had gotten to the department store, the shopper had selected several pieces and then added more once she saw Connor in person. A zealous Connor had bought all of the selections plus the suggested accessories. Next stop—B’Elegant Salon. Connor recalled the receptionist’s greeting when she had called about an appointment. “B’Elegant Salon. Be all you can be.” At the salon, Connor was greeted by Antoine, the proprietor and head stylist. He critiqued Connor in one quick glance. “Tsk, tsk, girlfriend. Why did you wait so long?” With a snap of his finger, salon staff started coming out of the woodwork, swarmed all around Connor and began to work their magic. When they finished, she looked in the mirror and could not believe her eyes. Antoine gave two snaps up and gloated enthusiastically over his latest masterpiece. Connor left the salon feeling the first effects of her liberation. The old, staid, corporate clone Connor was literally and figuratively fading fast. She drove home looking good and feeling the same. Later that evening as she was admiring her purchases, John Snoe called. “Hey lady. Just as I told you, Martin and Dubois are anxious to meet you. Soon. The interview is just a formality. You’ve got the job.” “John, I am pleased that you’re so confident. But, you and I both know that Martin and Dubois will have the last word on the matter.” “I’m never wrong. That’s why Techno-Executives is so successful. I match the right executives with the right firm. I put a lot of time and energy into finding the type of person that my client wants.” “And you’re so modest, too,” Connor said jokingly. “You are so-o-o right. What can I say? I know I’m good at what I do. You, on the other hand, should give yourself more credit. Toot your horn once in a while, kiddo. A talented lady like you deserves to work for a company that will appreciate you. And I can get that for you.” John said confidently. “Enough of the accolades already. So, when is the interview?” Connor asked. “On Thursday of this week, just as I promised. From the excitement in your voice, I guess I can confirm everything with Martin and Dubois. As of earlier today,” he chuckled, “you are scheduled to depart late Wednesday afternoon from Augusta on Delta Flight…” John finished giving Connor the rest of the details. She especially liked the part that John had said about the ‘wining and dining’. “Martin and Dubois will probably make an offer before you return to Aiken. Call me as soon as they do so I can gloat.” Connor laughed. She was almost beginning to believe him. “The only thing you need to do when you return to Ellenton is to tell them Adios and pack your bags.” “I’m starting to believe you, John. You sound so sure.” “Trust me. You’re what Martin and Dubois have been looking for.” Tyler Cove, Texas… The first thing Connor noticed after walking into the airport terminal from the plane, was a woman holding a sign with “Dr. Connor Phillips” written on it in large gold-colored letters. Connor walked over to the woman, and introduced herself. The woman did not immediately return the greeting. She simply stared at Connor. Connor stared back. The woman blinked and then found her voice. “Ah…welcome to Tyler Cove, Dr. Phillips. Uh…my name is Martha Hillcrest, Attorney Martin’s executive assistant. I’m here to escort you to your hotel.” What was that weird look about? Surely I was expected. Ms. Hillcrest must have heard Connor’s thoughts. “Please forgive me for staring at you earlier. I was somewhat lost in thought. You know, trying to remember all of the details concerning your visit to Tyler Cove.” To herself, Ms. Hillcrest muttered, “I was staring because Martin had said to be on the lookout for a man. Surprise, surprise!” Connor merely nodded. She hoped that Ms. Hillcrest’s expression was not a bad sign. John Snoe had finally convinced her that this job was hers. Ms. Hillcrest’s strange behavior had caused an inkling of doubt to set in. As the skycap placed Connor’s luggage in the trunk of the sleek black Mercedes, Connor noticed that the chauffeur was also looking at her very strangely. Ms. Hillcrest entertained Connor during the trip to the hotel with tidbits of information about the law firm and Tyler Cove. After about a thirty-minute ride, the limousine pulled up to the covered entrance of a large hotel. The Wyndham. Martin and Dubois sure know how to treat a girl, Connor thought gleefully. The doorman assisted Ms. Hillcrest and Connor from the limousine and held the door so that they could enter the lavishly appointed lobby. Connor signed the register and after accepting her passkey, Ms. Hillcrest accompanied her to the executive suite that the firm maintained on the tenth floor. It was incredible. A sitting area that was lavishly appointed with two Queen Anne wing chairs and a Chippendale sofa positioned in a semicircle in front of a large entertainment center. Web TV, a laptop computer, a projection system, stereo and other gadgetry that Connor would dally with later completed the setting. Large vases of pink roses everywhere. The sunken garden tub in the pink tiled bathroom was large enough for a small army. Apparently satisfied with the arrangements, Ms. Hillcrest motioned Connor toward one of the wing chairs in the sitting area. “Let’s sit for a few minutes and discuss your schedule.” Ms. Hillcrest removed a folder from her leather briefcase and handed it to Connor. “A copy of the itinerary is included in the folder along with important telephone numbers and other pertinent information.” Connor scanned the items in the folder and hoped that her expression did not reveal her surprise and delight. Even if she didn’t get the job, the entertainment factor will have made the trip to Texas worth the effort. “Do you have any questions or is there anything you would like to add to the social portion of your itinerary?” Where would she fit it in? Connor wondered. “No, it appears to have the right mix of professional and social events.” Like she knew what the right mix was! Ms. Hillcrest stood. “I’ll leave you now so that you can get settled. Would you like to have the concierge send someone up to unpack for you?” Connor shook her head. “No, thank you, I can manage.” Ms. Hillcrest pulled a business card from her pocket and placed it in Connor’s hand. “If there is anything that you require or desire, please call me immediately.” “Thank you,” Connor said with a smile. What more was there? Ms. Hillcrest had taken care of everything. With one last sweeping perusal of the suite, Ms. Hillcrest left Connor alone to enjoy the hotel’s amenities. Ms. Hillcrest entered the limousine, and shared a knowing look with the chauffer. Martin and Dubois were in for a big surprise. Alone at last with her thoughts, Connor poured herself a glass of the complimentary champagne and sauntered over to the window. As she looked into the moonlit and star bright sky, she thought fancifully that it was a ‘wish upon a star’ night. So she searched the sky for the brightest star and upon finding it, she raised her glass in salute. “I wish I may. I wish I might. I wish upon a star tonight.” In response, the star twinkled, as if it knew what Connor really wanted. Book Titles Available \| \| The BANYON NETWORK \| Betty Byers \| Whitlow Synopsis \| INNER-VIEWS WITH CELEBRITIES \| ECLECTIC REVIEWS \| BOOK REVIEWER'S CORNER \| The NEWS \| SHORT STORIES CORNER \| \| Return Home \| GREAT LINKS \| WHAT'S NEW? \| CONTACT US \|