Page 45 of A Rogue to Ruin
“But the book was for you, not to sell for money?”
She nodded, then shot a glance toward Anne, who’d entered the shop and stood a few feet away, effectively blocking the door.
Rafe let go of the girl. “You’re going to come here every morning except Sunday and sweep the shop. You’ll also do whatever tasks Mr. Entwhistle directs you to do.” He looked at John, who didn’t reflect even a glimmer of surprise. Rafe then fixed an expectant stare on her. “Agreed?”
“What’s wrong with your eye?” she asked, staring at the orange spot.
“It’s how I find children like you. You need to stop stealing. You’re going to get caught.”
She looked away, pressing her lips together. She knew he was right. He could smell the fear beneath her bravado.
Rafe knew how to win her over completely. “If you need a room, you can have one upstairs.” John lived over the shop, but on the uppermost floor, there were a handful of rooms where other young people—mostly boys—had stayed for a time. Rafe had helped all of them find employment.
Rafe picked up the book she’d taken. It was a collection of Greek mythology stories. “Do you like Greek history and culture?”
She shrugged.
“After you read it, tell Mr. Entwhistle what you think.” He handed her the book. “Do we have a deal?”
“You’re just giving me the book?” She stared at him dubiously.
“I trust you’ll be back—for the job, if not the room. I hope you’ll take both.”
She clutched the book to her chest and stared at him a moment longer before turning and nearly colliding with Anne. “You’re a woman.”
Anne’s gaze met Rafe’s briefly before she smiled at the girl. “Yes. What’s your name? Seems like your future employer should know it.”
“I haven’t decided if I’m taking the job.”
“Oh, you must. I can highly recommend his character,” Anne said, flicking a glance toward Rafe that made his breath catch. “You won’t regret it, I promise. I’m Anne, by the way.”
“I’m Annie,” she said shyly. While Rafe couldn’t see her face, he could hear her tone, and he detected the slight curl of her shoulders.
Anne laughed softly. “Then we were destined to meet. You must take this offer of employment and lodging.”
“Are you his wife?” she asked, prompting Rafe to freeze.
“Er, no.” Anne’s gaze found his again, but only briefly. “Just a friend.”
“All right, I’ll take the job. Will you come back to visit?” Annie asked.
“Definitely. I’ll bring you something cheerful for your room upstairs. If you don’t mind.”
Annie shook her head. “I don’t.”
“It’s settled, then.” Anne looked toward the book in Annie’s arms. “I will also read that book so we may discuss it. Would you like that?”
“I would. Thank you.” Annie turned her head to look at Rafe. “Thank you too.”
“See you in the morning,” John called with a wave. “Unless you come back later. I’ll have the room ready if you do.”
Annie nodded before departing the shop far more sedately than when she’d run out the first time.
Anne came toward Rafe, her eyes softening and her lips curling into a lovely smile. “You are much more than a bodyguard. Youarea hero, despite what you think. You own this shop?”
“I do. You were wonderful with her.”
“She needs kindness as much as anyone. I was merely taking your lead.” She looked past him at John. “Is he always like this?”
