Hazards on the Hardwood (Hazards and Hijinks) Read Free

there was some of the family’s funds were held in foreign oil companies. In other words, this family was extremely wealthy. She owned one of Central Park West’s lavish apartments.
    One thing he did know about her character was that she was never without a circle of followers wanting to dress like her and wishing they had even a tenth of her wealth. This woman didn’t know the meaning of fake anything! Her jewels were authentic, designer clothing was all she wore and her hair and makeup were impeccable. She walked with a certain grace and elegance that shouted, “GOOD BREEDING!”
    The dark side of Caroline, if there was one, was that she had trouble with relationships. She wasn’t able to reciprocate people’s affections or good deeds. She was a late riser and loathed people greeting her early in the morning before she had her morning coffee and massage! You could definitely say she was spoiled rotten.
    Nicholas congratulated himself as he recalled how he could get Caroline to do just about anything if he sweet-talked and complemented her just right. She was putty in his hands if he said the right words and she was in her agreeable mood. If he wanted to step out for the evening with her on his arm, he would simply smile gallantly, tell her how beautiful she was and let the magic happen. The other side of the coin; it always had a “what’s in it for Caroline” slant.
    So with all the thoughts pushed aside, Nicholas picked up his phone and called Caroline. He fidgeted nervously, as he waited for her to answer. Then he laughed when he recalled that whenever she called him, he’d set up her ringtone with the song, ‘If I Ruled the World.’ How very fitting and appropriate for her!
    “Hello?” She sounded as though she hadn’t quite wiped the sleep from her eyes yet, voice still a little gravelly. “Caroline, I hope I’m not disturbing you, it’s me, Nicholas. Got a minute?”
    “Yes, Nicholas, what is it? I’ve got a hair appointment at ten.” She said as if wanting to leave this conversation quickly and get on with more important matters. Inwardly yawning, she spoke, “I really am pressed for time, and so if you could kindly speed it up I would appreciate it. Sorry, I just woke up and I don’t mean to be so rude. I haven’t had my coffee yet.”
    “Caroline, I’ll make this brief, I was wondering if you might like to be my dance partner for the upcoming Lakeside Dance Competition. The prize money probably wouldn’t interest you; however it would be a wonderful addition to my lowly bank account. The award is twenty-five thousand dollars to the winning couple. I’ll let you chew on it for a while and you can call me back later with your answer. Hope to hear from you soon. Bye.” And without even waiting for her response, he ended the call.
    The lovely Caroline processed Nicholas’ request for a bit, not wanting to sound too eager with her response, then reluctantly returned his call. When Nicholas answered her call, she spoke in a nonchalant way, “Oh okay, I guess I’ll do it. You better make sure there’s not a wrinkle or crease in that tuxedo of yours and that you don’t spill more gravy on those patent leather shoes! Please email me with all the details; now on to my hair appointment. Bye.”
    Both phone conversations had been very brief, to the point. There was more information to share; the fact that last year’s winners were Raul Griffith and his hot-headed partner, Sasha O’Neill, two dance veterans that would prove to be their toughest competition this time. He would share all the information in an email; he was less likely to experience Caroline’s wrath!
    One thing he heard was a rumor that Sasha had gone through some kind of counseling or group therapy because of her addiction to reality television. It was further rumored that she thought she deserved to be in the cast of the “Real Housewives of New Jersey.” He was curious to see if there was any truth to the rumor. He doubted