Page 65 of Dangerous December
“Maybe you can pick up another job?”
“I’ll sure try, but it’s tricky, with my long commute and my class schedule. And in the spring, we’ll have long hours of practicum at the hospital.” A corner of her mouth rose in a wry grin. “My life sounds like quite a soap opera, doesn’t it?”
“I think you areamazing.Just think of what you’re doing—raising a son, going to school full-time, and supporting yourself. How many people could do what you’re doing? Just getting into the physical therapy program was tough. I can’t imagine how difficult those classes are. You need a T-shirt with Super Mommy on it.”
Sophie broke into laughter. “Stop. You’re making me blush.”
“Well, it’s true. I’m so proud of you. When Rob died, you were so devastated that you didn’t know where to turn. And look at you now.”
“Well...I just hope I can continue. My parents are discussing the possibility of moving again. They want to start spending their winters down south, before they’re too old to enjoy it...or even make it their year-round home. And theyshould,if that’s what they want.”
“But then you won’t have them to watch over Eli.”
“It’s selfish of me, I know. But Eli can be a handful, and he needs consistency. I’m praying that they’ll stay here just one more winter so I can finish college and get a decent job.” She bit her lower lip. “They’ve just been wonderful, letting him stay there on weekends so I can pick up some extra shifts at the restaurant. And after school...”
“No one can care for a child just like his grandma,” Beth said with a smile.
“Especially one with special needs. And they refuse to let me pay them a nickel, which is a blessing because money has been so tight.”
“If they do go, you’ll need someone every day after school and on the weekends, right?”
“Not every day. It’ll depend on my spring class schedule during the week. I’m hoping for more regular waitress shifts on Friday and Saturday nights, because the tips are better.”
“Do you think he’d be willing to come to the bookstore after school?”
Sophie’s eyes widened. “I wasn’t hinting, honest. I know you’re not in the day-care business. What single gal wants to spend her Friday and Saturday nights babysitting?”
“The weekdays are no problem. I’m at the store from ten until nine in the evening anyway.” Beth took another sip of her peach tea. “He could have supper with me. And the weekends...we could work that out. If you can arrange something else, fine. But otherwise, it’s not like I’m dating anyone.”
Sophie blinked and sat back in her chair. “You are the most wonderful, best friend ever.Ever.I won’t impose on you like that, but the fact that you’d even offer is just incredible.”
“It’s not imposing. I’ll be disappointed if you don’t let him come over on the weekdays at least.” Beth grinned. “He’s a good kid, and he always behaves well at the store. And hey, since I’mdestined to be a childless, crotchety old spinster, I’ll consider it a favor if I can enjoy him for a while.”
“Thank you,” Sophie said fervently. “Maybe my parents will stay in town. But just knowing there’s another good option is such a relief.”
She paused, then her eyes took on a wicked gleam. “But I don’t know about this ‘crotchety old spinster’ stuff. Maybe you and I should try one of those online dating services after I graduate, just to see who is out there. Maybe there’s an Adonis with a PhD, just around the corner. A perfect Mr. Right.”
Beth smiled, but shook her head. “I had my experience with a Mr. Right—I truly thought he was. But after that, I think I’ll be happier to live alone.”
Beth walked into Sloane House and inhaled the wonderful aromas of sage, parsley, butter, and onion. Lots andlotsof melted butter.
“Oh, my word. This is incredible,” she breathed. “Someone is making dressing for Thanksgiving tomorrow, and I don’t think I can wait until then.”
From the settee in the parlor, Frank waved his cane at her and laughed. “Imagine coming home to this today, after almost four weeks in the hospital. Home cooking, and Thanksgiving to boot.”
“I’m just thankful for the invitation tomorrow.” She walked into the parlor and leaned over to give him a hug, careful to avoid the leg propped up on a footstool and pillows. “Maybe we can raid the kitchen when Elana and Reva aren’t looking.”
“Maybe.” Frank gave her a speculative look. “I hear you’re bringing pecan and peach pies, and cranberry-orange bread. Is that pecan pie good?”
“My grandma’s recipes, all of them. So I don’t dare tamper with them.” Beth winked at him as she sat on one of the carved walnut chairs flanking the settee. “I’d be in the doghouse untilnextThanksgiving if I did.” She looked around, curious. “Where is everyone?”
“Carl is puttering on his car. Cody and the women-folk are in the kitchen.” Frank raised an eyebrow. “And just in case you’re interested, Dev brought me home from the hospital and then had to leave right away for an appointment at the VA in St. Paul.”
“The hospital?”
“Something about a required second checkup. He looked mighty tense about it, too. I think he has a lot riding on a clean bill of health. It’s already almost eight o’clock, so he oughta be home by now, wouldn’t you think?”
She sank against the back of her chair.
