“Dad, you know what he does for a living. He buys troubled businesses and then sells them off on a chopping block. He’ll do the same thing to your business. Why would you call him, of all people?”
“No, he won’t. His business had changed. He’s changed.”
“How could he change? That’s what he does for a living. He’s a shark and he’s very good at it. When we were together, he was here in town to buy and take over two different companies. He’s merciless.”
“Yes, I agree. I despised his tactics. But that’s not who he is—not anymore. He’s a troubleshooter now. Croft Enterprises is a consulting firm that handles businesses in financial and management crisis. He fixes businesses. He used to tear companies apart. Now he knows how to save them.”
“No, that doesn’t sound right.”
Ben nodded. “It’s true. For the past two and a half years, he’s been consulting with failing businesses and helping them turn things around. His services are well-known and very much in demand. I was lucky that he put me at the top of the list and came here so quickly. His success rate is excellent. His client list is a who’s who among the top Fortune 500 companies. And believe me when I say this—his waiting list is endless.”
“I find this hard to believe.”
“Believe it,” Ben said seriously. “I think his change had a lot to do with you.”
Janelle considered his words for a moment. She didn’t know what to think or to believe anymore. But right now Tyson wasn’t her main concern. “Okay, fine, so he’s turned from Sheriff of Nottingham to Robin Hood. What’s happening with your business now? What exactly is he doing to help you?”
“I had creditors and banks breathing down my neck. The IRS was ready to file charges. Tyson stepped in and, to tell you the truth, I don’t know what I would have done if he hadn’t. I think we’re close to finding the light at the end of the tunnel. There are no easy solutions. He’s given me some viable options, including taking on a business partner.”
“A business partner,” she repeated distastefully.
Ben nodded. “Yes, Tyson and I have narrowed down a few interesting prospects. One in particular is very impressive.”
“What about me? I could be your business partner.”
“No, this isn’t your life now, Janelle. You’re a doctor.”
“Dad, be careful. You always said business partners were trouble. You never wanted someone to take what you built.”
“Don’t worry. For the first time in a long time things are looking up. And speaking of time,” he said, looking at his watch, “I need to get to the office. I have meetings all day, starting in about thirty minutes.” He hung up his apron and left the kitchen, heading down the hall to his home office.
“With Tyson?” Janelle surmised, following him.
“No, it’s with a bank. Tyson set it up. So, tell me, what are your plans?” he asked.
“I’m having lunch with Nya at twelve and a quick coffee with my friend Meg at the hospital at three.”
“Meg Richardson?” he asked. She nodded and he smiled. “I always liked her. She was good for you. So, you’re really gonna stay?”
Janelle nodded again. “Yep, so far that’s the plan. I still have to look for a job and officially give my notice to Medics International, but looks like you’re stuck with me for a while.”
Ben reached over and squeezed her hand lovingly. “It’s my pleasure. It’s good to have you home again. When I returned your call last night and you didn’t answer, I was worried sick.”
“I didn’t get a call from you last night,” she said.
“I used Tyson’s cell phone.”
“I did get a phone call, but I didn’t recognize the number, so I didn’t answer.” She paused, watching her father gather his things to leave. “Dad, how did you know where to find Tyson after all this time?”
“We’ve kept in touch over the years,” Ben said, putting a few files into his briefcase.
“You kept in touch how? Why?” Janelle asked, surprised.
“I know, I know,” he began, nodding his head as he closed and locked his case. “Tyson and I weren’t exactly the best of buddies when the two of you were together, but I guess things changed.”
“That’s too much change. Talk about a Christmas miracle. If I remember correctly, you despised him when we were together.”
“Despised is a strong word,” Ben corrected as he slipped his suit jacket on and turned to her. “I felt Tyson was distracting you from your goal. I didn’t want that to happen. You always wanted to be a doctor. It was your dream. I didn’t want you to one day look back and have regrets. When you told me you were considering quitting your residency, I knew you were confused.”
“Dad, I don’t have any regrets and, for the record, back then I considered quitting my residency every other day. Medical school was hard.”
“I’m glad you didn’t. You know your mother quit her dreams for me. She wanted to be a doctor, too. This was way before you were born.”
Janelle frowned. “I never knew that. Why didn’t you tell me?”
Ben nodded. “I guess maybe I always felt guilty for standing in the way of her dream. She never said it, but I always felt she regretted giving it up to be my wife.”
“Dad, no. Mom would never even think something like that. She loved us fiercely. I’m sure she never regretted her life.”
Ben nodded solemnly. “No, you’re right. She didn’t. But when she died I promised myself I’d never stand in the way of your dreams. I’m very proud of you, Dr. Truman.” He hugged her, then grabbed his keys and started toward the front door. She followed. As he walked, he unfastened one key from the loop. “Here’s the key to the other car. It’s got a full tank. Go out. Enjoy your day.”
“Thanks, Dad,” she said, taking the key and kissing his cheek.
“Hey, how about I take my favorite girl out to dinner tonight?” Ben said as he opened the front door.
She nodded. “Yeah, that sounds perfect.” He turned to walk away. She called out to him. “Dad, wait. What aren’t you telling me? You’re hiding something. I can tell.”
He sighed, turned back to her and leaned down to kiss her cheek. “There’s nothing. I’ve told you absolutely everything about the business. Now, give my best to Nya and Meg. I have to go.”
She nodded slowly, knowing in her heart there was more to his story and his hasty retreat. She was to meet Nya at twelve, which gave her just enough time to catch up with Tyson to find out what was really going on.
She went back inside and quickly grabbed her phone and dialed Tyson’s number from her call log. He answered on the second ring, and his deep voice instantly sent a warm tremor through her body. “Tyson.”
“Good morning, Janelle. How are you feeling today?”
“I’m not sure yet.”
“Jet lag?” he asked.
“No.”
“What’s wrong?”
“Can we talk?”
“Of course. Where are you now?” he asked.
“I’m at my dad’s. I know you must have a busy work schedule, but do you think we can meet sometime today? This morning if possible?” she asked.
“How about right now?” he offered.
“Yes,