Finding Love

CHAPTER 10

The Rollercoaster of Love

Malissa and Serenity clapped and cheered on the other end of the phone line after Ruth shared details about her date with Thomas. "She meets all the cutest guys," Serenity stated. "Don't forget they are also really romantic too," Malissa said. "I guess they are," Ruth giggled. "I am so happy for you," Serenity beamed. "It's about time you meet someone new," Malissa chimed in. "Thank you, my beautiful friends," Ruth said. "I can't wait to hear about other dates," Serenity beamed. Ruth said, "You and I both." After talking with her friends Ruth turned in for the evening with thoughts of Thomas. 

One year later

Ruth smiled as Thomas wrapped his arms around her. They were celebrating their one-year anniversary going into the second year of their relationship. They had enjoyed a European trip with her friends and their partners. Serenity and her boyfriend Steven along with Malissa and her husband went on the trip. Ruth appreciated that Thomas was so thoughtful and would include the people she loved in their lives. 

"Thank you for this trip," she said with a smile, "You are welcome," he said caressing her hands. "Ruth Dawkins thank you for changing my life. You are by far the best thing in my life," he said standing in front of her. "My heart is yours and I want you to know I love you," Thomas confessed. "I have loved you for a while now. I breathe each day to enjoy my life and time with you," he continued. "There is no pressure for you to say it. I just needed you to know how I feel. Your love does it for me," he said kissing both her hands. 

Ruth caressed his face and grinned for their moment. "Thomas Caldwell, I love you too. You have stolen my heart when I thought I could not find love again. Your love amazes me too," Ruth confessed. Thomas captured her lips quickly and kissed her passionately taking Ruth's breath away. As the kisses grew intense and his kisses more demanding Ruth pulled back reminding him with her eyes they could not be intimate. Thomas held her in a warm embrace. He respected her values, beliefs, and standards. He was willing to wait for Ruth to become his wife. 

Changes

Serenity leaned next to Ruth when the new boss introduced himself to the staff. "He is really sharp and handsome," Serenity whispered to Ruth. Ruth had to admit Serenity was correct. Spence Donaldson's gray eyes, warm smile, and fit psyche all made him irresistible. Spencer Donaldson had purchased the Guardian two weeks ago and was looking forward to upgrading the newspaper. Spencer had fifteen years in the journalism arena and was proposing fresh and innovative ideas. 

 His style of leadership was exciting and new because he listened to and respected his staff's opinions. Everyone was invited to share their feedback and goals for the paper. It was quite refreshing because the former boss micromanaged the paper and kept everything stagnant for a long time. 

Spencer concluded that he wanted to meet with each area or section of the paper individually for further discussion. "And finally staff we are having a staff social next week so I can get to know you all on a personal level. Welcome to the 21st Century Guardian above and beyond. The next time we meet be prepared to view pitch ideas and marketing strategies to transition the paper going forward," Spencer continued. Everyone cheered and the level of enthusiasm was explosive in the room. 

As they walked back to the office Serenity asked Ruth. "Are you ready for the discussion with the new boss?" Ruth smiled, "Yes I am." Serenity's eyes widened with curiosity and nervousness when she saw Spencer Donaldson approaching them. "Boss alert," she whispered to Ruth.

"Ladies, how are you today?" Spencer Donaldson said looking into the eyes of Ruth and Serenity. "Mr. Spencer," they both said in unison. He reached out and shook both of their hands. "Ruth Dawkins, can I talk to you?" Mr. Spencer asked. "Yes Sir," Ruth said as firmly as she could without sounding nervous. Spencer followed Ruth into her office.