Page 31 of Shifter Marked and Claimed

I laughed. “No such luck. Actually, with the increase in patient activity lately, I was just approved to hire on some help.”

“Approved? You need approval for that?”

“No, but if I want Kyle to pay the wages instead of it coming out of my pocket then I do.”

“Smart. So what are you looking for?”

“Just an admin really, though someone with medical training would be a huge plus to offset a little of the workload. Why, you interested?”

“Yes,” she blurted out and then I saw it register on her face after the fact like there was a delay between her quick response and the info actually reaching her brain.

“Really?”

“I don’t know if it would be a good idea, but I really need a job.”

I considered it for a moment. Could I handle working with Lucy all day every day? Yes, yes I could. My wolf practically howled at the thought.

Still, I had to think about what’s best for her.

“There are other places hiring, like I know Jesse down at The Crate is looking for a waitress.”

“I saw the sign today and almost applied.”

“What stopped you?”

“He’s probably going to want me to work the evening shift at least some of the time and then what do I do with Vada? There’s so many other things to consider and ensure she’s cared for first and foremost.”

I loved how fiercely protective of her child she was.

“You can always leave Vada with me,” I offered.

After I opened my big mouth I considered what I’d just said and yes, I would be fine with it too. I knew they came as a pair. Lucy was mine, therefore, Vada was too. It was the first time I had let myself think of her in that way.

I took a breath expecting to have a sudden freak out, but it didn’t come. I didn’t just want to be a mate to Lucy, but also a father to Vada. I had always loved kids and I was ready for this.

“That’s sweet, but it could be a regular thing and you have so much else to do.”

“Well you said you had midwife experience. Anything else?” I asked her, surprising myself that I was actually considering this.

She bit her lip and I could feel she was still holding something back from me.

“Nothing formal, but I aided and assisted hundreds during captivity. The Raglan would have just left them to die without a care so there were a few of us that pitched in to help whenever possible.”

“Okay, but most of the job will likely be boring, answering phones, setting up appointments, organizing and pulling patient files, stuff like that. Are you sure you want that?”

“I know you sometimes work late, like tonight. I would have to pick Vada up from school and bring her back here on those nights.”

“I mean, you two are always welcome here. I don’t mind her hanging out here at all. There’s even a spare room that we can turn into a safe playroom for her even, but are you sure you’re okay with this?”

“This? What?”

“Working every day, with me.”

I needed her to say yes. It suddenly felt like the most important moment of my life as I waited.

She smirked. “That’s not exactly a hardship.”

“It’s not?”

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