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Cameo Appearance
Cameo Appearance
Cameo Appearance
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Cameo Appearance

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While being blackmailed by her ex-boyfriend who wants to turn her in as the witness to a murder some five years before, Cameo Dreyden has done her best to put the incident behind her. When she finds out the creep is going public anyway, Cameo has no choice but to disappear to places unknown, with a Prince who wants to make her his bride.

The South Pacific is as far away from the Unites States as she can find. Prince Reginald of Charmania whisks Cameo off her feet with a gentle but electrifying kiss, while battling demons of his own. The island nation needs a stable monarchy, because the threat of a takeover to get the newly discovered riches is imminent. Under the island's rules, since the king's ill, Prince Reginald has to marry to save his country, and Cameo's been chosen as future queen.

Surrounded in this idealistic fairy tale setting with castles, frolicking dolphins and the promise of a life of luxury in exchange for her hand in marriage, Cameo couldn't possibly turn it down. However, she's torn between staying to save the monarchy and fleeing to save her life while sacrificing her heart.

LanguageEnglish
Release dateOct 14, 2011
ISBN9781452424965
Cameo Appearance
Author

Markee Anderson

Writing is escapism, at its finest, for Markee. With three grown children (a son and two daughters) and their daily issues, she escapes by writing about other people's lives. It's like playing with dolls all over again--giving them a life, problems, a past...and it all happens in her head, keeping her entertained.See more at MarkeeAnderson.com. See all of her books (and all her pen names) at SweetTaleBooks.com.

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    Cameo Appearance - Markee Anderson

    Chapter 1

    Cameo Dreyden raised the bat in her hand and stared at the stranger who she was certain had been sent to kill her. No murderer's thug would kill her without a fight, especially not so early in the morning. Out, she said with a determined voice. Or you'll regret it. This is your last warning.

    The stranger backed up, lifting his hands into the air as if to deflect a blow. Don't kill me. I mean you no harm. His soft British accent filled the room.

    She paused. She was such a sucker for British accents, but couldn't afford to back down. Her fingers tightened on the handle. Who are you and what are you doing here?

    I'm with—

    Cameo's roommate, Jane, rushed into the apartment carrying some bags. What's going on? Cameo, why do you have a bat?

    The blond man turned toward Jane with his hands still lifted. She thinks I'm a masher. Tell her who I am.

    He's—

    Wait. Cameo held the bat in the air and watched her roommate, even though Jane was in front of her. Why are you home so early? You shouldn't be here until tonight.

    Jane put her hand on her hip. I wanted to bring Reggie home to meet you. She pointed toward the stranger, who still looked horrified.

    Cameo lowered the bat and returned it to the corner. Sorry. I didn't know. I wasn't expecting anyone so early in the morning. She reached out and shook the man's hand, but he still looked a little shaken. So, I take it you're Reggie and are dating Jane now? I thought—

    Wrong, Jane said. I'm still with Benson. I just wanted you to meet Reggie. He's a friend of mine… She glanced at him. …from work. Yeah, that's it. He works with me.

    The very handsome blond-haired, blue-eyed man turned toward Jane. "No, I don't. I'm not even from the United States, but I am here on a mission."

    A mission? Cameo returned to the kitchen, grabbed a bowl, a spoon, and a box of cereal. She put those things on the table, and then grabbed the milk from the fridge. What's your mission in the States? Are you a spy or something? She chuckled to herself while dumping cereal into the bowl. I scared a spy with a bat. Hilarious.

    No, I'm a prince.

    She spun toward him. I scared a prince with a bat? Even funnier. She chuckled and put the spoon into the bowl.

    Dressed in light-colored khaki pants, a dark blue polo shirt, and a black jacket, the man bowed slightly with a grin, his gaze on her face. Prince Reginald at your service. But you can call me Reggie.

    She watched him, stunned, and poured the milk into her bowl. A prince? A real live prince in my apartment. That doesn't happen every day.

    He had strong masculine features and slight dimples. She was a pushover for dimples, blue eyes, and a British accent. Since he was a prince, he really was someone to watch. Stunning. That was the only word for Prince Reginald. He had the whole package, from what she saw.

    He pointed down at her bowl. I think you have enough milk on your cereal.

    Cameo glanced downward and yanked the milk container up, the liquid dripping all over the table, off the side, and onto the floor. Oh no. She put the container on the table, grabbed a few paper towels, and started mopping up the milk. How stupid am I?

    Reggie lifted the paper towel roll off the dispenser and helped her with the milk as it dripped onto the floor. Not stupid at all, he said. There's no use crying over spilled milk.

    Very funny.

    I thought so. Now why did you carry a bat to the door? Are you afraid?

    He didn't need to know anything. He was a stranger, and for all she knew, someone who might hurt her. She darted her eyes to him, while continuing to wipe up the milk. It's nothing to worry about.

    I do worry about you. He touched her arm. She turned as her stomach fell from the sentiment of the comment. The heat from his fingertips burned her skin, making her swallow hard.

    He leaned a bit closer, invading her personal space. I see I have a mission here, even if it's just to make you unafraid. He smiled, taking away all her fears. My primary mission, though, is very important, and it involves you.

    She couldn't let him into her life, chiding herself for falling for his looks.

    Did he say something involved her? He must be mistaken. Me? She turned toward Jane, standing in the kitchen doorway, checking her phone. Jane. What's this about?

    Jane lifted her eyes and then put the bags she was carrying on the table. Sorry. I wasn't listening. She stood in the kitchen, still looking at her phone.

    Reggie finished wiping the table and took the paper towel from Cameo, throwing it into the trashcan. As he stood at the sink and washed his hands, he spoke to the side. I need you, Cameo. But I have to explain it, so give me a minute.

    I don't even know you and you think you need me? Are you some crazed lunatic who was sent here to hurt me?

    He grabbed a paper towel and turned toward her in confusion while drying his hands. No, I'm not here to hurt you. Why would you think that?

    Considering the nightmare of her life, it would make sense. Don't worry about it. So why are you here, really?

    He studied her face for a moment. I'm here to present you with a legal contract that you might want to consider.

    Look, buddy. She crossed her arms. If you want to sue me for something, I have nothing, so you're out of luck. I have to get to work and I don't have time for legal contracts. If you have any ideas about making me late, forget it. My boss already hates me.

    Even though Reggie appeared to be frustrated, he didn't comment. Instead, he took the big bags from the table and put them on the counter. Jane moved off to the side, ignoring them, while still working with her phone. After opening the bags, he removed a box containing three cups of coffee from Cameo's favorite coffee shop and a box of what looked like donuts. I knew you'd be like this, so I brought a peace offering. He read the side of each of the cups, finally handing her one. Large latte with four sugars, just like you like it.

    She studied the cup, finally lifting her eyes. How did you know that?

    I told him. Jane grabbed a cup and turned toward the door. I'll be back. I have to email the people at work. She left the kitchen.

    Reggie took the box of donuts and the third cup of coffee to the table. Have a seat, he said to Cameo. This won't take long and I don't think you'll be late for work. You take the bus, right? He sipped his coffee.

    Yes. She checked her watch as she sat down, wondering how he knew that. It gets here in about seven minutes.

    Plenty of time. He opened the donut box. He shoved it toward her, got two plates out of the cabinet, and handed her one. Your favorites are in there.

    She stared inside, realizing he knew more about her than he should, considering he really was a stranger. He and Jane must've had a few conversations about her. But why?

    She decided to start with the obvious. Who are you and why are you here? You're too nice to be a burglar or a masher.

    I'm not a burglar or a masher. He took one of the cream-filled chocolate-covered donuts and put it on a plate. Cameo, I came the whole way from my country to see you. He produced a thick document from his jacket pocket and laid it on the table. This is a legal contract for marriage.

    Her eyebrows lifted in surprise. Marriage? For whom? Jane and you? But she's dating Benson. What do you need me for?

    You're beautiful, with your blonde hair and blue eyes. I want you to be my wife. He lifted the donut to his lips and bit into it.

    Cameo stopped breathing, trying to understand his words while playing them over and over again in her head. Did he say wife? Maybe she heard him wrong. She glanced down at the papers lying in front of her. Yes, it was a contract of marriage and her name was at the top.

    She stared at him, suspended for an extra moment in disbelief. Your wife? Are you insane? I don't even know you, much less be in love with you. She leaned closer. I don't believe in marriages of convenience, loveless marriages, or marriages based on looks. You have the wrong girl. She grabbed her spoon and shoved a few spoonfuls of soggy cereal into her mouth. Besides, she said, the milk seeping out from between her lips. Wait a minute. She took a drink of the coffee and swallowed, while Reggie grinned at her. Besides, you're not even from this country, right?

    No, I'm not.

    Why are you doing this? For your green card or something? Do you want to use me to get your citizenship?

    He shook his head. No. I want to marry you and take you back to my country with me. You'd be a princess and all my people would worship you.

    I don't want to be worshipped. She stuffed more cereal into her mouth and swallowed. I want a normal life, here in the States. You've definitely got the wrong girl.

    I don't think so. Look at it from my side. I know more about you than you realize. You're exactly what I'm looking for—someone who's independent, strong, and beautiful. Why wouldn't I want to marry someone like you?

    She leaned up, shaking her head so he'd get the message. Because it takes two to want to marry, and I'm not what you think. I don't know where you got your information, but you're sadly mistaken. I'm not for you, but I wish you the best. With a quick glance at her watch, she blew out a breath, jumped up, and ran toward the door. Now I'm late for work!

    Just wait, Reggie said, following her. Don't forget your purse.

    He grabbed it from the couch and threw it to her. She caught it on the first try, but stopped with her hand on the doorknob and stared at him. What a nice man.

    He approached her. See? I'm marriage material.

    She slapped his arm. Nope. The diamond tiara doesn't fit this girl. She opened the door, ran down the stairs, and outside. The bus was just pulling away, heading down the street.

    Wait! I have to get on that bus! Cameo waved her hand in the air, trying to get the driver's attention. She ran after it until she realized there was no way she'd get it to stop. The thing was two blocks down the street before it even slowed to run through a red light.

    Taxi! She whistled and raised her hand to hail a cab, but there were none in sight while other cars whizzed by. Why did morning rush hour in San Francisco have to be so busy?

    With no bus or cab, she was doomed and would probably be fired, which was typical for her luck for the day. What was next?

    ~~~~~

    Chapter 2

    "Have a problem?" a voice asked from behind her.

    Yes, I do. Cameo turned, coming eye-to-eye with the blond male model from her apartment. You. You're the reason I'm late. She should've realized who it was from his accent.

    The name's Reginald, but you can call me Reggie. Remember?

    The wind blew slightly, moving her hair to her eyes. Yeah, I'll never forget. As she brushed her hair from her eyes, she looked up at him. Happen to have a car? She paused for a moment. No, let me rephrase that. Happen to have a coach drawn by white horses?

    Yes, I do, but I didn't bring the coach with me.

    Her eyebrows lifted and her eyes rounded in surprise. She just had to ask, didn't she? Did you bring a car with you? Can you take me to work?

    He shook his head. No.

    Her hands flew to her hips. Why not?

    The car's back home. I take the trolley or a taxi here. He leaned closer to her ear. "They drive like maniacs in this country."

    Cameo lifted her arms and faced the sky. Ugh. She returned to the street and resumed her cab-hailing position. Taxi! After yelling for what seemed like 20 minutes, Reggie moved up beside her and waved once. A cab immediately pulled to the curb.

    She stared at Reggie in amazement. How did he do that? She couldn't let the thought slow her down, so she opened the cab door and got into the back seat. Thank you.

    Just as she tried to pull the door shut, Reggie yanked it back open and popped his head inside. I'm coming with you.

    She shook her head. No, sir. I have to go to work and I'm going to be late.

    I have to protect my interests.

    Protect your interests?

    He pushed her to the other side of the cab and sat down on the seat, forcing her to sigh.

    The driver turned his head toward them. Where to? Cameo didn't recognize his thick accent, but she mentally crossed her fingers, hoping he'd understand her.

    Cameo sat up. 1348 Colorado Avenue. There's a big tip in it for you if you can get me there in 20 minutes.

    Huh? the man replied. No speak English.

    Great. Cameo lowered her head and covered her face with her hands. This couldn't be happening.

    Reggie put his arm over her shoulders and spoke to the cab driver in a different language. The cabbie smiled and pulled into traffic while Reggie continued to converse with the man.

    Cameo peeked out from the side of her hands still covering her face. What just happened?

    Reggie leaned toward her and stroked her hair. I told him you were in a hurry.

    While lowering her hands slightly from her face, Cameo lifted her head and raised an eyebrow, moving Reggie's hand away from her hair. How dare he touch her like that?

    She shot him a dirty look, which made him smile. Why am I in a hurry? she whispered.

    He leaned toward her again. You just found out you're pregnant and want to have a quick wedding. The minister's at 1348 Colorado.

    But I'm—

    Don't worry about it. Let me handle this problem for you.

    She leaned her head back on the seat and massaged her temples with a huge sigh. This wasn't happening. She was going to lose her job and would be thrown out on the streets. Jane couldn't afford to keep Cameo in that apartment by herself. She'd need a paying roommate.

    Cameo would have to find another job, unless this cab driver got her there in time. But given the guy didn't even speak English, she didn't think he understood.

    The cabbie spoke to Reggie again and they both started to laugh.

    I'm not even going to ask, she murmured.

    It seems the morning sickness is making you angry, Reggie whispered.

    Morning sickness?

    He nodded, grinning.

    She turned to look out the window. She couldn't argue with him, or the cab driver would go slower. Then the fare would be higher and she'd be really late for work. She felt doomed.

    She looked over at Reggie. Let me guess…you're the groom, right?

    I can be, if you want, but that was easier than I thought it would be. I figured you'd want to negotiate at least part of that document.

    No negotiations are necessary, because I'm not signing it. If I ever get married, I'd want to be wooed, with a proper proposal and a fairytale wedding, not someone thrusting a document into my hands and expecting me to sign it.

    I figured as much, but I had to try. He watched out the front window, and then leaned toward her, hiding his mouth with the side of his hand. You'd better look sick, Reggie whispered. Or he won't believe it.

    No problem there. I'm probably going to lose my job, so I really do feel sick.

    He shoved her head between her knees and leaned down to her. Moan.

    Moan? she whispered, glancing at him from the side.

    He nodded and she watched his big blue eyes twinkle in the autumn sunlight.

    Oooohhhhh! She grabbed her stomach and moaned again.

    Good acting, Reggie whispered into her ear, his arm still around her shoulders. I just wish it were my child you were having.

    Creep.

    You know, if you marry me, you could have as many children as you want. I wouldn't mind, because children are fun.

    Children and marriage? That was the last thing on her mind. Psycho.

    He said something to the cab driver and the car lurched forward, almost throwing Cameo out of her seat. She grabbed onto the door handle for dear life, her knuckles turning white when they rounded a corner on what felt like two wheels.

    Reggie took his arm off her shoulders and grabbed her other hand with a grin. Fun ride.

    No, it's not, and I'm really going to be sick now.

    The driver stepped down hard on the brakes, screeched to a stop, and waited for the light to change to green. Cameo unglued herself from the back of the driver's seat, covered her mouth, and opened the door. After she got out of the cab, she reached into her purse, threw the man a few bills from her wallet, and ran toward the other side of the street while cars slammed on their brakes to avoid hitting her. She finally made it to a trashcan on the sidewalk, dumping her entire stomach contents from her breakfast.

    As soon as she felt someone rubbing her back, she turned around and frowned, facing Reggie. This is your fault, you know.

    It's always the man's fault. He handed her a tissue from his jacket pocket. That's what we were taught in grade school.

    She wiped her mouth and threw the tissue in the trash. You were? His country, wherever it was, sounded pretty good.

    Most definitely. Women should be treated like gold and are the true rulers of the household. If you married me, you'd be treated well, and that's a promise. I think it's even in that legal contract for marriage I gave you.

    Not going to happen, she thought, as her eyes narrowed. Is this a sexist country? Are women allowed to work outside the household?

    Oh, yes. They can have any job they want, except—

    Except what? She was just waiting for the challenge. Bring it on, buddy.

    King. No woman can be king; however, she can be queen. The same thing goes for prince and princess.

    She felt her face soften. That makes sense.

    Do you feel better now?

    I guess so. She looked at her watch and blew out a breath. I'm late.

    He began to chuckle. Late?

    Her glance from the side was meant to be nasty. For work. I'm not pregnant. Get your mind out of the gutter. She turned and started down the sidewalk as fast as her heels would allow her.

    He kept up his stride, staying beside her. May I ask you a personal question?

    Not really, she almost sang to him. As she picked up her speed, she noticed he ran to keep up.

    I'm going to ask anyway. Are you a virgin?

    Cameo stopped dead in her tracks, making people run into them.

    She glared at Reggie. This was a fight worth having, even if she was late. "What did you say?"

    I asked if you were a… He glanced toward the crowds walking past them. …a virgin! he shouted.

    The people nearest to them stopped, stared, and tittered. Cameo covered her eyes with her hand and just sighed. Certain her face was bright red from her burning cheeks, she didn't know what to say. She wanted to tell him the opposite of what he wanted to hear so he'd leave her alone. If he was royalty, chances were he wanted an innocent woman. Therefore, she only had one option.

    No, I'm not, she whispered, removing her hand from her face.

    His grin widened. Good. So, we can just get cozy and you won't be upset.

    I can't believe this. Cameo sighed, watching the people stare as they passed, and addressed Reggie. I can't.

    You can't? Why?

    She moved up to his ear. Not a good time for me, she whispered.

    His blue eyes danced. I understand. He bent down to his knees, bowing to her while nodding up and down. You are a queen. I worship you. You—

    She reached down and grabbed a fistful of his collar, hauling him to his feet and sending his eyebrows careening toward his hairline. Get up here. You're embarrassing me… yourself. She let go of his shirt as if it were hot embers.

    Reggie donned a puzzled expression, straightening his clothing. What's the matter?

    What are you doing, bowing down to me? she asked in a low tone.

    In my country, we always bow down to women who aren't at a good time.

    What?

    He nodded with a giant grin. Oh yes. We also give them gifts. Do you like chocolates, flowers or both? Maybe you want a foot rub or a massage. I'd think you'd be happy to get any of these things. Say the word, and it's all yours. I want to do anything to make you happy.

    What kind of crazy country is this?

    It's my homeland. He thrust his arm across his chest and lowered his eyes. The Republic of Charmania. Reggie raised his head and wiped a tear from his eye. I miss it so much.

    She felt almost sorry for him, being so homesick. Never heard of it.

    It's an island nation in the south Pacific.

    How long have you been gone?

    He sighed, sounding like he really missed the place. I got here this morning.

    How could he be homesick in such a short time? Cameo shook her head, deciding to change the subject. Let me get this straight. You don't care if a woman is a virgin or not—

    Nope. Don't care.

    —and you worship women every month?

    Yes, ma'am. Without women, our country would be empty. There would be no future generations and we'd have no population at all.

    So, women rule?

    In the household they do. We do whatever they want.

    She checked her watch. Well, this woman has to work. If you'll excuse me? Cameo took off in her heels, dodging the crowds as she went. She made a mad dash into her building and sprinted up the two flights to her office. Just as she entered her cubicle, she stopped abruptly. Her boss, Mr. Pandry, was seated in her chair, playing with her stress ball. He stared at her with a snarl.

    Cameo bent a little to catch her breath while holding onto the cubicle wall.

    Miss Dreyden, Mr. Pandry bellowed. Do you know you're four minutes late for work? The mean man had slicked-back dark hair and nasty-colored beady brown eyes, reminding her of someone a baby vomited on.

    She straightened up, still watching the baby-vomit psycho boss. Yes, sir. I have a valid excuse and I'll work overtime to make it up to the company.

    The evil man studied her with anger in his eyes. I'm listening for your excuse.

    She wanted to slap the smirk off his face when he spoke.

    It's my fault, a male voice said, also out of breath.

    Cameo closed her eyes, praying the Adonis—also known as Reggie—standing behind her wouldn't tell the truth.

    Go ahead. This has to be good. Mr. Pandry crossed his arms.

    I stole her cab, Reggie said. And she had to ride with me. I was so lost trying to tell the cabbie where to go that we ended up far away from here.

    Mr. Pandry stared at Reggie in confusion and then looked over at Cameo. That's the best you can do?

    She bit her lip and glanced over at Reggie. She hated lying, but she had no choice. It's the truth.

    The evil boss clenched his jaw and narrowed his eyes to mere slits. I'm done with you. You've pulled too many stunts like this one, and I'm not going to tolerate it.

    But sir—

    He stood up, using his hands in wide gestures for emphasis. No buts. You're fired. I'm tired of you being late—

    This is the first time, she said in a meek tone, afraid of this man.

    —and all the time you've spent crying at your desk—

    But my production and accuracy are impeccable. You even told me so.

    Too bad. Clean out your desk and go to Personnel. He glanced at Reggie. And take your lackey with you. He brushed past them, storming out of her cubicle.

    Cameo threw down her hands in frustration, tears filling her eyes. She was fired? She'd never been fired before.

    She fell into her chair and pulled all her personal items from her desk. The tiny 'employee of the year' plaque was the last item in her hands. After studying it, she shoved everything into her purse. With one last look at her desk, she turned and walked away. Her life was over.

    I'll make it up to you. Reggie followed her toward Personnel.

    Just go away.

    I can't. This is entirely my fault and I intend to make it right. I'm really sorry, Cameo. I shouldn't have bowed down to you in the street and made you even later. I was only trying to be funny, but it wasn't funny. I just want to make you happy and see you laugh.

    She kept walking toward Personnel, refusing to address him directly. I don't think I'm ever going to laugh again. I'm going to be homeless and probably put in jail for not being able to pay my bills.

    I'll never let that happen to you.

    She didn't believe it. He'd probably be like everyone else and kick her out of his life.

    It's not your problem. Cameo shook her head. Wait here. I'll be right out. She approached a thick dark brown wooden door with 'Personnel' written in big black letters.

    As soon as she walked through that door, she knew it was the beginning of the end of her life.

    ~~~~~

    Chapter 3

    As she prepared herself to face the executioners in line to terminate her job, the receptionist sitting at the front desk popped a bubble with her chewing gum.

    I'm Cameo Dreyden. I was sent here by Mr. Pandry.

    Miss Dreyden. We've been expecting you. The overly made-up fake blonde woman pointed to an office on the right. Mr. Ogden will see you.

    Cameo squared her shoulders and walked toward the office with the open door. Behind the desk sat an older man with a beard, a moustache, and a puke-colored brown turtleneck. He looked like he should be working with mental patients, not in a business.

    He looked up, seeing her in the doorway, and pasted a thin smile on his lips. Miss Dreyden. Won't you come in and have a seat…and tell me all your problems? His voice was patronizing, so Cameo made a mental note not to stay a second longer than she had to. Knowing the type, he'd probably suggest sexual counseling as well as therapy for being unemployed.

    She entered his office and sat in the chair in front of his desk. As she watched his eyes lower to her chest, she reached up to her blouse to make sure it was securely fastened at the top. I only have one problem, Mr. Ogden, and it seems Mr. Pandry solved that very simply. He just fired me.

    Oh! He put his finger to his lips then looked around the office as if someone might be listening. We don't say the 'f' word in this office, he whispered.

    Which 'f' word are you talking about? Cameo whispered back. If he said something she didn't appreciate, she'd be so out of there.

    F-i-r-e-d, he said, spelling out each letter. We say 'unwaged.' It's more…pleasant.

    The world had gone crazy and hadn't invited Cameo. She shook her head to make sure she was awake. All right, sir, I'm unwaged. What do I have to sign?

    Well. The man pulled a stack of at least a hundred papers from his desk drawer, removed a rubber stamp from his desk, and hit the top paper with force, making it read 'unwaged' in big black bold letters. We have to make sure you're not going to sue us for unlawful unwagement. Sign each of these papers. You have ten minutes to do it.

    She inspected the pile of papers in horror. Ten minutes to sign this huge stack? She even pointed to show him what she meant.

    Yes ma'am. He checked his watch. I have to go to my yoga lesson, so I don't have a lot of time.

    Cameo sat up and leaned toward him. What happens if I don't sign them?

    Nothing. We just don't want to be sued. Sign the top one and you'll be fine.

    She wrote her name on the top form. Fine. I'd rather not sign them all. Cameo rose to her feet and walked to the door. Good day.

    But Miss Dreyden, you can't just leave.

    Why not? Cameo turned back toward the man with her hand still on the doorknob.

    You didn't get your goodbye hug.

    I'll pass. She opened the door and just as she walked through the doorway to leave the outer office, Mr. Ogden grabbed her from behind in a huge bear hug.

    We'll miss you, he cried.

    "Unhand

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