Chapter 2

“What did you think of Carmen?” Joan asked as they got in the car.

Taylor shrugged.“Seems OK. But I don’t understand why you didn’t bring it up before now.” She couldn’t keep a hint of petulance out of her voice.

“To be honest I wasn’t sure how you’d react.” Joan turned and grinned at Taylor. She hadn’t started the car.“Figured there was less of a chance you’d throw a hissy fit in public.”

Taylor started to respond, but Joan held up a hand.“Iknow this was your baby. You’ve done great in getting it off the ground and—”

Taylor waved an arm.“You’ve alreadysaid that. If you’re trying to blow sunshine up my ass, vary the pitch a little.”

“Don’t be so prickly. Iget it. But I think it’s time we take the foundation to the next level.“

As Taylor buckled her seat belt, she realized Joan was parroting Carmen’s catch phrase. She wondered what“the next level” was and why her aunt felt this sudden urge to head there. But she didn’t say anything. Her feelings were more than a little ruffled.

“Taylor? I’m sorry I went behind your back.”

Taylor started. Had Joan read her mind or was it showing on her face?“It’s OK. Really. I’ll get over it. Shedoes know we’re a nonprofit, right? No one’s taking any money. Not me, not you, not board members.”

“Relax. She’s doing this pro bono.” Joan shuddered.“Youheard her story. She wants to make damn sure other kids are safe.”

Taylor took a deep breath.“Guess I’m on board with it. What do you want me to do?”

“Go over everything with her—financials, board members, potential donors. The whole enchilada as they say.”

“You didn’t give her any