“Yes. But it’s entirely your choice.”
After another pause, she agreed.
“All right, honey. I’ll do it.”
“Thank you, Margaret.”
“Just promise me one thing.”
“What’s that?”
“Don’t expect me to wear anything fancy.”
I laughed. “Deal.”
Beatrice’s introduction to practical generosity was approaching.
By seven, wealthy donors were entering the restaurant.
Beatrice appeared in a sparkling designer gown.
“Welcome!” she announced. “Tonight is about giving back!”
I almost choked on my water.
She spotted me and approached. “Rachel. I hope you’ve finished whatever Walter asked you to organize.”
“Almost. Everything’s coming together.”
“Good. Just make sure nothing interferes with my speech.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it.”
“And please don’t embarrass me in front of my guests.”
I smiled. “I’ll do my best.”
Satisfied, she headed toward the stage.
While she worried
about delivering her speech, I anticipated what would follow.
Walter tapped the microphone.
“Good evening, everyone.”
Beatrice hurried forward.
After thanking the donors and praising the foundation’s mission, Walter announced:
“Tonight, we’re introducing a more hands-on approach to generosity.”
Beatrice straightened, apparently expecting an appointment.
“Our wonderful hostess, Beatrice, will personally lead this activity.”
Guests applauded.
Her smile weakened.
Walter gestured toward me. “Rachel, please explain.”
I stepped forward. “After dinner, we’ll prepare two hundred grocery packages and hot meals for local families.”
Applause grew louder.
“Our chefs and volunteers have organized everything. And Beatrice will be leading by example.”
Beatrice stared. “Leading what?”
I lifted an apron.
“Congratulations. You’re our first volunteer.”
She stared at it. “You’re joking.”
“Not even slightly.”
“This dress costs four thousand dollars!”
“Then it’s fortunate the apron is complimentary.”
Laughter spread through the room.
Beatrice had spent months preparing to become the public face
of charity, but actual physical work wasn’t what she’d envisioned.
Reluctantly, she tied on the apron.
“Where are my employees?”
“Preparing meals.”
“Then they can pack everything!”
“They’re already working. You’re joining them.”
“I don’t know how!”
“Excellent opportunity to learn.”
I demonstrated the packing process.
“Rice, canned vegetables, pasta, soup. Follow the list.”
