Page 45 of Bookworm

Her brow slowly arched, so I hurried on.

"Because of what happened to Bo"—I felt my cheeks heat—"I wanted to help out. Help him, I mean. Just until his wrist gets better."

I swallowed.

"And I wouldn't want or need to be paid. This would be purely on a volunteer basis."

"You would work for free?" she asked.

"Absolutely!" I said. "This is to repay a debt, make amends. It wouldn't be right if I was getting paid."

"But you said you already work at the library."

"Yes, but I can decrease my hours."

"Weekends? They're our busiest time."

I nodded. "I'll work those too."

The older woman gave me an intense, searching look. "Does Bo know you're here? Did you discuss this arrangement with him?"

Shaking my head, I said, "No, ma'am, and I don't think he'll want to accept my help. But too bad."

I lifted my chin higher.

"Your grandson isn't my biggest fan, but I'm determined to see this through. He'll just have to deal with my presence.Whether he likes it or not."

It could've been a trick of the light, but I thought I saw her mouth twitch, amusement shining from her eyes.

"So…what do you say?" I asked.

I waited for her to throw me out.

To tell me "shoo" again like she had this morning.

But she surprised me.

"Okay," she said.

I blinked. "Okay?"

"Yes, you're hired." Holding up a hand, she eyed me down. "But I expect hard work, one hundred percent effort."

I nodded.

"You'll take this job seriously. No being late, no fooling around. Do you understand?"

"Yes, ma'am," I said. "You have my word."

Her eyes stared into mine as she stated, "And you will call me Mrs. Lee. Not 'ma'am'."

I grinned. "What about Boss? Or Boss Lady?"

When she didn't smile back, I waved that away.

"Never mind, Mrs. Lee," I said, moving quickly to the door before she could change her mind. "I'll be the most dedicated worker you've ever had. You won't regret this. I promise."

"We'll see," she said. "You start tomorrow.8:00 AM sharp."

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