“More than.” I squeezed Declan around his middle and nuzzled my nose into his neck. “I appreciate this chance so much.”
“I’m glad to give it to you. Quite honestly, I’ve interviewed two other candidates, and neither Declan nor I liked either one.”
I had to know, though it wasn’t any of my business. “Why not?”
Avery shrugged. “Both gave off bad vibes. I got the feeling neither really cared about Declan or the job. They wanted a situation where they didn’t pay rent, could watch TV all day, while making sure Declan didn’t crawl into the oven.”
Flattered, I felt my face heat in a blush. “That’s not what I’ll do.”
“I know. So does Declan.”
“I have to admit I’ve never been a teacher or a tutor,” I admitted, “but I’ll learn in my free time.”
“There are so many homeschooling platforms on the internet I doubt you’ll need to do that. Just follow the instructions.” Avery grinned. “Declan has already started to learn to read, and he knows his numbers. Right, little man?”
“Yep,” Declan replied proudly. “I can teach you, Dad.”
“I’m sure you can. Look, take Max into the other room. I want to talk to Jacy in private.”
“Aww, Daaad.”
Pouting, an expression I felt wasn’t real, Declan slid down from my lap and grabbed the dog’s collar. At first, Max refused to get up, forcing Declan to strain, his head down, pulling like a draft horse. With a long-suffering sigh, Max stood up and followed him from the kitchen.
My stomach clenched.What did he need to say that he couldn’t say in front of his kid?
“Relax,” Avery said. “It doesn’t concern you. Well, it does and it doesn’t. Declan’s mom abandoned us a few years ago. He doesn’t really remember her, and he asks about her every now and then. I just want you to know in case he asks.”
“What do you tell him?”
“As much of the truth as I can. That she left us for the sort of life she wanted. One that didn’t include us.”
***
“You’re leaving?”
Beth hugged me tightly, near tears. “I’ll miss you. Here and at the restaurant.”
My guilt nudged me in the ribs. “I’m sorry. I got the job. I’ll be a live-in nanny for a little boy.”
Beth sniffled and held me at arms-length. We’d hit it off the moment we’d met when I got hired as a waitress at the same place she worked. Upon learning I’d just moved to town, Beth invited me to room with her. I never regretted the decision. Now I was leaving her with the full rent.
“I’m happy for you, love.” Beth smiled. “You’ll be great.”
“I hate sticking you with the whole rent.”
She waved her hand negligently, her lips pursed. “Oh, stop. I was fine before you came, I’ll be fine once you move out. Just stay in touch, okay?”
“Promise.”
Ten years older than me, Beth had worked for the restaurant’s owner for five or more years before I arrived. Among us all – waitstaff and busboys – only she could deal with his crusty moods and ill temper. I certainly didn’t regret leaving that job – even without giving notice. Upon learning I wouldn’t arrive for my next shift, he’d no doubt take his rage out on Beth and the others.
“What’s this guy like?” she asked, turning away to sit on the worn sofa.
“Good looking, big muscles, hot to trot.” I sat beside her. “The kid is great. We hit it off right away.”
“That’s important.” Beth gazed at the distant wall. “Are you safe with him? You never know about some dudes. They behave all nice and kind, then hold a knife to your throat while they rape you.”
I recalled Avery’s laugh, his kind, dark-blue eyes. “I’m sure I am.”
