Page 32 of The Rogue

“Thanks so much for meeting with me, and I’m sorry I couldn’t make it yesterday. I had to take my little brother to practice. He’s on the little league team.”

“Oh, how fun. No worries, I’m glad you could make it today.” I point her to the couch and take a seat on the armchair.

Tessa hangs back, fake dusting the banister.

Carol blinks, scanning mycleaning lady’soutfit. But doesn’t say anything.

“So, I know I emailed it, but I wanted to bring my resume anyway.” She passes me a crisp folder. “As you’ll see, I have three years experience at the daycare and eight months at the elementary school.”

I wait for Tessa to comment on the short-term at the school, but she doesn’t.

“It’s where I did my student teaching.”

Ah.

“I also don’t have a boyfriend, by the way.”

I nearly sigh.And there it is!

But I’ll let Tess take this one. Then kindly thank Carol before walking her out.

“So you’ll never have to worry about me sneaking boys in when you’re out. This is your home, your rules, and I totally respect it.”

I blow out a breath, scanning the resume. That sounds rehearsed. And definitely Googled.

Also, I appreciate the note but who does that? Is she dropping ‘I’m single’ hints?

Am I paranoid?

Or just conceded?

“Besides,” she says. “I have no interest in relationships until after I finish my master’s in education. I only have one year to go.”

Both, I’m definitely both.

Blowing out a harsh breath, I nod, considering if there’s anything left to ask her. “That’s… impressive.”

She sighs at her accomplishment. “I’m excited. Teaching and children have always gone well for me. It’s my passion. Oh and I love to cook. I get it’s not part of the job but every kid needs a homemade meal. And every kid should learn to cook, so I do plan to slap an apronon Jackson.”

Child labor. Red flag.

Again, I wait for a comment from the peanut gallery and glance behind me. But Tessa’s not there.

“Also, I think Jackson and my little brother Thomas know each other from school. If it’s alright with you, I could arrange playdates or trips to the library or the lake…”

I nod at Carol as she goes on and subtly scan the floor for my fiery redhead.

“I think I saw her go in the den,” Carol offers.

I frown, turning my focus back.

“Sorry, I pay attention when someone needs something. Occupational hazard.”

Give it a rest, Sunshine.

Glancing outside, I see another car in my lot.

Tessa’s car.

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