Page 36 of Grady

“That had to be a shell shock,” Maggie said, laughing.

“Oh, it definitely was, but I just love it here. Are you married?”

“Divorced. It’s a long story, but…”

“Don’t worry about it. I don’t judge. That’s not my place. I’m divorced too. So, what kind of work experience do you have?”

Maggie sighed. “Not much except working in a fast-food restaurant during and after graduating. I didn’t go to college. I got married at a young age. Biggest mistake of my life. But I know how to interact with people.”

“Maggie, I would love to hire you. I feel such a rapport with you.”

Maggie grinned. “I feel the same and I swear I am not blowing smoke up—” She stopped herself just in time. “I’m sorry. Swearing during an interview can’t be good.”

Savannah laughed. “No, it’s not, but I think this will work. When can you start?

“Anytime.”

“Wonderful. How far away from town do you live?”

“About twenty-minutes. I’m actually in the process of looking at apartments for rent.”

“There’s an apartment above the shop, if you’re interested.”

“Oh, I am. What’s the rent?”

“I have no idea. I’ve never used it.”

“Why not?” Maggie shook her head. “Never mind, that’s none of my business.”

“Oh, that’s fine. An opportunity to rent a townhouse came up, and I took it.”

“I’m glad it’s working out for you.” Maggie glanced around again. “This shop is amazing.”

Savannah stood. “Follow me.”

She led Maggie to a back room and smiled when she heard Maggie gasp.

“Oh, my! These are just so gorgeous.” She looked at Savannah. “I love dollhouses, but I never had one.”

“I always tell people that every girl deserves a dollhouse.”

“I’d love to have one of these.” Maggie ran her hand over one of the roofs.

“You’d get an employee discount,” Savannah said, smiling.

“Perks of the job.” Maggie smiled.

“I do need you to fill out a form for your taxes.” Savannah handed her a form.

“Sure.” Maggie picked up a pen and filled in the form, then handed it to Savannah.

She glanced over it, then looked at Maggie. “Your name is Magdalena?”

“Yes.”

“That’s beautiful. So, how about you start next Monday. Oh, let me give you the key to the apartment and you can check it out. Please, don’t take it because I offered. If you don’t like it, you don’t like it. Simple as that.” Savannah shrugged.

“Great. I’ll take a look then be right back.”