Kelly didn’t doubt that for a minute, her boss was so squeaky clean, Kelly was surprised Jennifer’s legs didn’t screech when she walked. An image of subtle thighs rubbing together sprung to mind. Trying to rid herself of the inappropriate image, Kelly swept up the shards of glass at their feet.

“Whoever the tax department sends in will also be auditing all personnel files.” Her boss’s voice trailed off.

When Kelly stood, they were no longer alone.

“Hey, boss. Kel.” Jacinta breezed by, retrieved a litre of milk from the fridge and disappeared as quickly as she’d materialize.

“I can’t be here all day every day.” Jennifer didn’t elaborate; she didn’t need to.

While it wasn’t talked about openly at work, most employees were aware Jennifer’s mother was receiving chemotherapy treatment at Palmerston North Hospital, and Jennifer always accompanied her mum to the appointments.

“I want you to assist the auditor. Make sure the files are accessible when needed, and kept under lock and key at all other times.”

For some inexplicable reason, the serious look in Jennifer’s eyes worried Kelly. Her pulse raced as she awaited her bosses next words.

“I’m putting you in a huge position of trust, Kelly. One that might ruffle the feathers of those who think you’re receiving special treatment.” Her expression softened.

“That doesn’t bother me,” Kelly replied honestly.

It wasn’t like she hadn’t been judged before. And, unlike some of her co-workers who were often late and liked to gossip about customers, Kelly had earned Jennifer’s trust.

More than once, a regular client had shared a confidence with Kelly. It was almost as if they thought she was a safe sounding board, especially when they vented about a spouse or family.

God knew, Kelly had shared half her life story with her hairdresser. She hoped it went no further and therefore afforded her customers the same courtesy.

A slither of sunlight glimmered off the key Jennifer dangled between them.

“I won’t let you down, boss.” Kelly held out her hand.

“I’m counting on it.”

The small gold key landed in Kelly’s palm. She closed her fist around it, accepting it like a sacred gift.

Jennifer pushed her glasses up her nose, drawing Kelly’s gaze to the sadness lingering there.

In that moment, Kelly’s heart went out to her boss. She didn’t know what would be worse, having her father ripped from her life, or having months to prepare for the fact that a loved one might not survive cancer.

Taking a huge risk of overstepping boundaries, Kelly placed a hand on Jennifer’s forearm and gave it a gentle squeeze. “I can lock up tonight, go be with your mum.”

Jennifer narrowed her eyes. “Are you after a pay rise?”

Playing along, Kelly replied, “Always.”

Without a backward glance, her boss exited the building and Kelly returned to work.

Chapter 12