£7.99
(True) Liberation of Kate
Kate Cummings
Kate Cummings is a rather romantically minded, warm, passionate woman married to Philip whom, although rather a fire-cracker as a young man, has developed into a cold, taciturn, humourless man, quick to find fault and totally unable or unwilling to put his true feelings into words. Kate enjoys her job but is very unhappy and frustrated in her marriage. She feels she is taken for granted by her husband and her children, just a convenience. Nevertheless, she believes implicitly in the sanctity of marriage and constantly tries to pull the remnants of their marriage in an effort to kid herself and others that she and Phil have a normal relationship. Eventually, she realizes that she is trying to breathe life into a relationship that died years ago; perhaps six years ago when their marriage became one in name only.
Her Transformation
Having allowed herself to be talked into buying an unusually daring dress for an office party, she decides to go the whole hog and have her hair professionally cut, styled and coloured, with professional make-up and false fingernails. Her husband, as usual, has refused to accompany her, but she is thrilled with the compliments, dances with everyone who asks her, and drinks far too much champagne. As the evening progresses, she lets her hair down completely and exhibits a side of her personality hitherto kept well under wraps. She is nervous to go to the office on Monday but, after a while, realizes there is no malice in the humorous remarks aimed at her, and, somehow, she has now been accepted into the bosom of the family firm of attorneys, whereas before, although highly respected, she always felt on the periphery.
David Wilson
Her antics at the party have interested David Wilson, the spoilt, arrogant son of the senior partner. David, because of his good looks, money, and charm, has a string of conquests and regards women as being good for his bed and nothing else. He is intrigued by this new Kate Cummings, so different from the polite, efficient office figure who has worked for his father for fifteen years. He decides it would be amusing to invite her to lunch. However, he finds her a stimulating companion, able and willing to discuss any topic he chooses and with a delightful sense of humour. Luncheon becomes a regular event and the highlight of Kate's week. Slowly, a passionate, stormy relationship grows between them, but Kate suspects she is at the butt of David's whims and fancies, the same as she is with her family. She is at the crossroads and must decide which way to go.
The Firm's Transformation
David's father dies. David relentlessly turns the long-established firm of family attorneys into a money-making machine, politely but firmly causing the old remaining partners to feel like fish out of water and encouraging them to become consultants or take early retirement by bringing in many highly intelligent, ambitious young attorneys, exceptionally articulate and persuasive in their arguments. He eventually makes himself senior partner but begins to realize he has created a monster and does not know how to get off the treadmill! As he brings in more senior personnel, they, being the cream, attract more business. In spite of having two secretaries, a personal assistant, an administrative assistant, and a team of brilliant attorneys plus extremely efficient junior and senior personnel, the final responsibilities of every aspect of the firm rest on his shoulders. Twenty-four hours a day is not sufficient for David, and Kate is worried that he will work himself to death!
Kate's Support
Her workload is constantly increasing, and in spite of all the latest equipment, she has to employ a secretary—her eldest daughter, who, being a chip off the old block, soon becomes her right hand. After eight months of never seeing one another, David devises a scheme whereby he has a half-hour business discussion with Kate every Friday morning. Although she enjoys having a cup of tea and a chat about business and other matters, she is worried about David's health.
