Gauging that Chad was occupied in his current conversation, Tess took a few steps away to stand beside Theresa Stephens. Theresa’s husband, John Stephens, headed up a business that ran car dealerships in most of eastern North Carolina, while Theresa was a respected pediatrician and an excellent contact when Tess needed to get fundraising campaigns started. Theresa had short blonde hair in a sleek cut that hugged her scalp. She was petite with dark brown eyes that held a twinkle and dressed in bright colors. This evening she wore a wine colored sheath paired with dangly gold bracelets and matching earrings. She radiated intelligence and warmth. Theresa was committed to a number of charitable causes, particularly those related to public health. Tess had known Theresa and John for years and c
