Page 4 of Orc Charming

“You seem to need a boost, and I’ve got one available.”

“So do I.”

I could see her wavering. She came across as someone who didn’t like to ask for help even if she was in need. It made me admire her. She was refreshing, exciting. “We’ll have to fill out some paperwork. I guess we have time.”

“I’d be happy to do so.” I wasn’t sure how long I could remain hidden in this little coastal Maine town, but I’d aim for a week before I let anyone know where I was.

It was past time for Deegar to escape the confines of his tight world and live.

“I appreciate it.” She nudged her chin toward the back, where we sat and filled out forms.

Wilfred had already left for a break.

“Time to load and run the dishwasher,” she said after we’d finished the paperwork. We stacked all the dirty dishes inside and started the device.

Next, I helped her top off the salt and pepper shakers and sanitize all the tables, booths, chairs, and door handles.

Not long after we finished emptying the dishwasher, customers started to arrive. Soon, the diner was full of people waiting outside to be seated.

“Just tell me what to do,” I said as Wilfred got the grill going.

She handed me a pad of paper and a pen. “Take one table at a time. I’ll handle the rest. I’m glad you’re eager to work, but I don’t want to overwhelm you.”

“I appreciate that.”

“No worries.” She patted my arm. “We all start somewhere.”

The diner remained busy until after two. Serving tables was tough work. Customers were picky, and some were impatient. Didn’t they realize food was better when the cook had time to prepare it carefully? That was something I’d found common in humans—a need to rush around as if whatever they had to do next would disappear if they didn’t get to it in time.

After the last guest left and Cat locked the door, turning the sign to closed, she leaned against the back and blew her breath upward. Her dark bangs shot through with pink lifted before dropping back down onto her forehead. “Done. You did a great job for your first time. The customers love you.”

“Damn straight,” Wilfred called out from the kitchen. “Awesome to have you here, Deegar.”

“Thank you.” I scratched the back of my neck and looked back and forth between them. “You think I did alright?”

“You didn’t see how Bernice gushed or how her husband scowled?” Cat said.

“You didn’t drop a dish, and that’s a win in my book,” Wilfred said with humor shining in his voice. The older man cameover to stand in the opening between the kitchen and the main section of the diner. “I’m out of here. I got the dishwasher going again.”

“Thanks.” Cat gave him a quick hug.

“Always welcome, little one,” he said gruffly. With a wave to me, he left through the back.

“Some people find his scowl intimidating,” she said lightly, watching me.

“He’s a great guy.” Anyone who helped Cat had my full regard.

“We can head to my place now. Do you have a bag?” She peered around me as if she expected luggage to materialize.

“I don’t.”

“We’ll take care of that also.” She strode into the kitchen. “This way. We’ll use the back exit. I’ll see if Mom left any of Dad’s old clothing. He was a big guy, though not as tall as you. You could wear those until we pick up a few things.”

I winced. “You don’t need to buy me clothing.” Why hadn’t I thought to grab a few outfits—and cash—before I fled?

Because I was tired of the life I’d led, and I’d needed a clean break. And I wasn’t used to doing much for myself.

Damn, was I soft.

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