Always Enough

Always Enough

Felix Brothers Trilogy Book One

By: Kay Edwards

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © 2016 by Kay Edwards

All Rights Reserved

About The Author

Kay Edwards is a country girl. She is still quite new to the publishing scene but has already released seven books. This is her eighth book. It is first in her new series The Felix Brothers Trilogy. Kay has taken us from small town Pennsylvania to Texas in her last two series. In this series, Kay takes us into the world of the rich and famous of New York City’s business world. Join Kay as she takes you through three different journeys of love. Let her introduce you to Stefan Trevor and Liam Felix as they meet the women God has ordained for them.

In the first book of this series, you will fall in love with Wendy and Stefan. As they learn to deal with loss, you will see them forge a delicate friendship that blossoms into love. Kay hopes you enjoy getting to know this couple as much as she did when she dreamed them up.

Dedications and Recognitions

I would like to dedicate this book to my readers. The emails and messages are what keep me writing. Thank you for taking a chance on a new author.

I would also like to take a moment to thank my newest proofreader. Terry Lapaglia Ross, you have blessed me beyond words with your honest critique of my work.

Of course, I have to thank my family for giving me space to create and write.

Prelude

Wendy glanced down at her nephews. Taking a deep breath, she took each of their little hands into hers. The three turned and walked away from the grave of her sister. Wendy would miss Gracie with her entire being. She thanked God for the time they had together. She thanked Him for the two boys her sister had entrusted to her to raise and prayed that He would give her all she needed to do that.

Sean looked up at his aunt with tear filled eyes. Are we going home with you, Aunt Wendy?

Wendy smiled sadly at him. Her voice was soft and gentle as she answered the same question she had answered daily since her sister’s death. You’re going home with me Sean.

Cory turned and looked once more at the grave. Tears ran down his cheeks as a sob broke his voice. I love you Mamma.

Wendy’s heart was broken. Her older sister had been her best friend. Looking at the boys, Wendy knew that she would do everything in her power to raise them how her sister would have wanted. Wendy was also aware that God would not leave her as she embarked on this new journey of motherhood. He would be enough.

Chapter One

Three Months Later

Wendy was running late. She had dropped the boys off at her neighbor’s apartment and then rushed out the door in an attempt to make an early morning interview on time. Her brown hair was not put up as she had wanted, and Wendy was hot. Summertime in New York City was not chilly this year. Not that it ever was. Wendy rounded the corner of the building and dashed into the elevator looking more adorable than professional. She smiled politely at the man who had joined her.

Stefan looked at the woman standing by him. It was evident she was flustered. What floor? He asked cordially and then waited for her reply.

Wendy dropped the piece of paper when she went to read it. Picking it up, she tried to maintain some control as her hands started shaking. Wendy was beyond rattled. Looking at her hands, she hoped the man wouldn’t be offended by her obvious bout of nerves. It looks like the fortieth floor.

Stefan took a deep breath. He really hoped the woman standing there was not the one he had an interview with in ten minutes. He was tired of dealing with flirty woman fresh out of college. This one was cute and more than likely knew it. Stefan frowned as he realized he had not even looked at the age of his latest applicant. Deciding to do a bit of probing, Stefan again spoke to the woman beside him. I take it you’re here for an interview.

Wendy nodded. She glanced at him as she spoke. I am. I’m sure you can tell I’m a bit nervous. I hope they give me a chance.

Stefan grimaced realizing he was right. The woman was his interview. It sounds like you’re young.

Wendy looked down at her hands. Her voice shook at his observation. She prayed the man interviewing her wasn’t as put off as this man seemed to be. I am, but I really need this job. I had a position with another company that I needed to quit. The fact I didn’t give that employer notice is a drawback for me.

Stefan was surprised to hear the woman’s confession. He decided to continue his probe. If Stefan were honest, he was now curious. The woman was not flirting with him at that moment. Stefan thought maybe he had misjudged her. Of course, he also knew that she may not be aware of who she was speaking to. The latter would be strange though. Most people knew exactly who he was. Why did you choose not to give a notice?

Wendy glanced up at the man. She shrugged her shoulders. It wasn’t like this was the person who was going to be speaking to her about a job. She decided to be honest. If anything, it was good practice for her impending interview. My boss made me uncomfortable. I was what he was looking for in an employee, until, he realized I wasn’t interested in more than work. I… Wendy paused collecting her thoughts, I just don’t want to move up a company ladder that way. There’s no integrity in that.

Stefan was surprised. The woman was actually very attractive. In his experience, some women used that alone to get ahead. Of course, he also knew that sexual harassment was a problem in many companies. Most woman tolerated it. Stefan was impressed this one had not. The door opened at the fortieth floor. He waited until his interviewee stepped out before he followed. Stefan watched her go to the receptionist desk. While she was occupied talking, he walked past her and into his office unnoticed.

Wendy knew she had only a few minutes until her interview. She had hoped to collect her thoughts while she waited. She also had wanted to get her nerves under control. When they called her name, she stood up and followed the older woman back to the office for better or for worse, since, her nervousness was still obviously there. When she entered the masculine office, she stopped. Wendy felt defeated before the interview even started as she recognized the man she had just confided her thoughts in.

Stefan stood and held out his hand. The look on the young woman’s face said it all. She had not realized who he was in the elevator. That knowledge intrigued Stefan. Good morning Ms. Collins.

Wendy shook Stefan Felix’s hand and tried to smile. Her voice was soft as she tried to put on a brave face and finish what she had started in the elevator. Good morning Mr. Felix. Wendy had no doubt that every person in New York City knew who the man in front of her and his brothers were on sight. Everyone, that is, except her. She started mentally kicking herself for not listening to her friend Carla. Wendy realized the research Carla had suggested would have saved her some embarrassment.

Stefan waved his hand at a chair seeing if the woman would sit or run. He smiled when she didn’t run. Once Wendy was seated, he decided to continue the interview he had started in the elevator. You said you need this job. You’re only twenty-two and fresh out of college. What makes you different from my other applicants?

Wendy looked up at the man she hoped would be her boss. She answered sincerely. I’m only interested in doing my best. I don’t know your other candidates, so to be fair, I can’t tell you what makes me different from them. I can only tell you about me and what I have to offer your company. If you give me a chance, I will not let you down Mr. Felix. I graduated top of my class because I worked hard. I can assure you that I will always give you my best.

Stefan spoke again as he looked down at the papers in front of him. He decided to test her claim about her previous boss. Stefan couldn’t afford a flirty assistant. Unless, I want more than work…?

Wendy flinched at Stefan’s words and then stood as she looked at him. She started feeling sick in her stomach at the insinuation he had slipped into his last question. Wendy held her ground on what she knew was right. If Mr. Felix was looking for more than an assistant, she was not a good fit for the job. Tears stung her eyes, and her voice was choked when she spoke again. I’m sorry Mr. Felix. I think I’ve wasted your time. Please have a nice day.

Stefan stopped Wendy as she started walking toward the door. He was impressed that she had passed his little test. Wait! I’m not asking for more than work. I apologize if that’s how you took it. I just needed to make sure you were honest in your previous confession.

Wendy nodded. She slowly walked back to the chair and sat down still not sure if she could trust him. Wendy sat as she patiently waited for him to ask more questions.

Stefan had a few more things he needed to know about the woman in front of him before he offered her a position as his assistant. How flexible are you?

Wendy was surprised by the question Stefan had asked. She was under the impression the job had set hours. Wendy realized the assumption may have been wrong. I’m not sure what you mean.

Stefan leaned back in his chair as he started to explain. There may be times I need you to attend certain functions with me. Our clients like us to rub elbows with them. That would require a bit of flexibility sometimes.

Wendy needed a bit more information to answer Stefan’s question. Would it be last minute requests or would I have a bit of notice?

Stefan was not sure what to make of that question. Why would you need notice?

Wendy knew she had no choice but to explain her hesitation in answering his question. She hadn’t even been considered for three jobs because of her situation with the boys. I would need time to find a sitter.

Stefan looked at Wendy’s application again. He glanced back up at her. Your application doesn’t say you’re a mom. Did I miss something?

Wendy knew she needed to give him more information even if it was painful for her to talk about. I’m not a mom, but I am.

Stefan was even more confused. What does that mean? I’m still not following. Why do you need a sitter?

Wendy stood again. The hope she had felt started to dissipate as Stefan asked more questions. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to waste your time.

Stefan stood as well. He intercepted Wendy at the door. For needing a job so bad, she seemed set on running away from him. I’m interested in what you have to offer this company Ms. Collins. Please finish the interview.

Wendy took a deep breath and looked up at him. I would need a sitter for my nephews. I’m their legal guardian.

Stefan nodded as he guided her back to the chair still not understanding the entirety of her situation. He looked at her application and then back at her. You’re only twenty-two.

Wendy wasn’t sure what Stefan wanted her to say. She nodded. I am.

Stefan sat back in his chair again. He regarded her curiously. Why do you have your sibling’s children and not your parents?

Wendy felt tears sting her eyes. She looked down at her hands. My sister died three months ago. My parents were killed in a fire four years ago. I’m all my nephews have, and they are all I have. I don’t need your sympathy, Mr. Felix. I need a job. I have a sitter I can use if I have notice.

Stefan was not untouched by Wendy’s words. He answered honestly. We usually can give you notice that you will be required at a function. If there’s no notice, I’ll allow you to bring your nephews to my place. My daughter’s nanny can help with them. How old are they?

Wendy glanced up from her hands in disbelief. She was surprised that Stefan would make an offer for his nanny to help with the boys. She answered the question. Sean is four, and Cory is six.

Stefan smiled. My daughter, Macy, is three. She would be fine having them over to play.

Wendy continued to stare into Stefan’s face. Her heart was in her eyes. I can do this job Mr. Felix. I just need a chance.

Stefan could not disagree. If he had to be honest, she was exactly what he was looking for. He wanted someone that could get the job done without being flirtatious or too forceful. The men he had interviewed came across as aggressive, while the women were coy. Wendy came across as just what she was; a person that was willing to work hard. He stood and walked to the front of his desk. Leaning back against the solid oak, he regarded the young woman again. I think I’m willing to give you that chance Ms. Collins. Since I know you quit your last job without notice, I would like you to start as soon as you have a sitter lined up.

Wendy looked up at the man leaning so casually against his desk. For the first time since she had taken custody of the boys, she felt like maybe there would be hope for them. Wendy whispered her appreciation softly. Thank you.

Stefan knew he may be crossing a line as he asked Wendy one more question. How did she pass?

Wendy swallowed the lump in her throat. She bit her bottom lip to keep from crying. When she had herself under control, she looked up at her new boss and answered. She was hit by a drunk driver. She was here, and then she wasn’t.

Stefan could relate to the pain he saw in Wendy’s eyes. He picked up his card and gave it to her. My personal number is on the back. If you don’t get me here at the office, please call my cell. Like I said, I would like you to start as soon as possible. You also need to know we have a sign on check for you. As soon as you leave here, you will go down to HR and sign the paperwork they have for you. When you leave them, they’ll give you your first check.

Wendy looked at Stefan surprised. The fact she could pay the sitter up front was more of a blessing than this man knew. She prayed he could see how grateful she was. Thank you for letting me show you that I can do this Mr. Felix.

Stefan grinned. You’re welcome. I’m looking forward to seeing what you have to offer this company. Have a good day and don’t forget to call me, Ms. Collins.

Wendy smiled as Stefan escorted her to the elevator. She was still in shock that he had offered her the job. She nodded as Stefan reminded her to stop at HR on her way down. When the doors closed leaving her alone in the elevator, Wendy leaned against the back wall. Thank You, God. Thank You for helping me find this job.

Stefan turned back to his office. He spoke to the receptionist briefly. Cancel all of the other interviews set up for tomorrow. I just filled the position.

Walking into his office, Stefan shut the door before walking to his desk and picking up the phone. He made a quick call down to the human resources department giving them Wendy’s name as his newest employee. When he hung up, he looked out of his office window over the city. Stefan was the CEO of one of the most powerful companies in the world. He was one of the youngest CEOs that had ever acquired his success. Today that didn’t matter to him. What mattered to Stefan was the look on Wendy’s face when he had offered her the position. He absolutely believed she would be an asset to his company. He had not seen the kind of honesty she had displayed during the interview in a very long time. A knock drew his attention toward the door.

Trevor grinned at his brother. How goes the search for that assistant you've been looking for? Rumor has it you found your ‘man.'

Stefan gave his older brother a look that said he didn’t appreciate the air quotes. I found a person I do believe will be a fit.

Trevor walked in and took a seat. Stretching his long legs out in front of him, he continued to torment his little brother. I heard she’s young and not hard to look at.

Stefan watched as his brother Liam, the youngest Felix brother, walked into his office with a grin similar to Trevor’s. He shook his head at him. I take it you don’t have anything better to do either?

Liam looked at Stefan. You and I both know I’m always all ears when the HR people start talking.

Stefan glanced at his brothers. He was aware that they were worried about him. If he had to be honest, he didn’t blame them. It had been almost two years since his wife, Deanna, had died of cancer. They honestly thought he didn’t date because he was still mourning. In some ways, Stefan was. But, that was not the only reason he had not dated again. Stefan knew he had a daughter to consider now. Macy came first. He glanced at the two and answered honestly. I hired her because I really do believe she is the right fit. If given a chance, I believe she’ll give this company all she has.

Liam looked at his brother. So, is she attractive?

Trevor leaned forward and smiled. We heard she was very attractive.

Stefan took a moment to think about Wendy. He gave them his honest opinion. She’s cute.

Liam spoke to his brother gently. Don’t’ you think it’s time?

Before Stefan could answer, a knock sounded on the door. He smiled when he saw Wendy.

Liam looked at Trevor and grinned.

Wendy peeked in at her new boss. She waited for him to wave her in. Wendy made a wide berth around the grinning men in Stefan’s office. I’m sorry to disturb you. Your receptionist said you weren’t busy.

Stefan shook his head. I’m not. These two are my brothers, Liam and Trevor.

Wendy was still very nervous. Her voice was soft. It’s very nice to meet you both.

Stefan had watched women fall all over themselves to get to his brothers. Wendy looked like she wanted to run. He wished his brothers would stop making her uncomfortable with their goofy grins. Did you forget something?

Wendy forced a smile on her face. I wanted to tell you that I am available as soon as you need me. My sitter is retired, so she has no issues with any schedule you choose.

Trevor was curious. The woman in front of them looked too young to have children. You’re married?

Wendy glanced at Trevor. She remembered her boss at her last job and took