Chapter 9 - THE WAITRESS WHO LOST HER JOB
The story became public before Elliot was ready.
A reporter obtained information about the Harcourt family investigation.
The headlines spread quickly.
HARCOURT FAMILY HISTORY UNDER SCRUTINY
BILLIONAIRE'S FATHER MAY HAVE BEEN SEPARATED FROM SISTER DURING WAR
FOUNDATION RECORDS RAISE QUESTIONS ABOUT DISPLACED CHILDREN
The Aster Room's management grew nervous.
Nora was called into the office.
Her manager, Richard Bell, sat behind his desk.
“Nora, we need to discuss your position.”
She already knew.
He folded his hands.
“You've become connected to a very public controversy.”
Nora stared.
“I helped a frightened guest.”
“I understand.”
“Then what's the problem?”
Richard sighed.
“The restaurant has an image to protect.”
Nora laughed bitterly.
“Of course.”
He looked uncomfortable.
“We're terminating your employment.”
Nora sat still.
Then stood.
“Thank you for letting me know.”
She walked out carrying her uniform in a paper bag.
Outside, rain fell across downtown Chicago.
Nora stood beneath the awning.
Her checking account was nearly empty.
Lucy's tuition was due.
And she'd just lost the job keeping their lives together.
She took out her phone.
Then stopped.
She could call Elliot.
He could solve her financial problems with a single check.
But she didn't want to become another person who depended on the Harcourt family.
So she called Lucy instead.
“Hey.”
Lucy answered cheerfully.
“How was work?”
Nora swallowed.
“I got fired.”
Silence.
Then Lucy said, “Come home.”
May you like
Nora closed her eyes.
“We'll figure it out.”
