Page 21 of Your Hand in Mine

He gives me a slick smile, which makes me question what the hell is really going on here. “Perhaps interacting directly with children would be more beneficial to your growth and development as a future educator.”

Sheffield looks to his friend. “I’m kind of shocked you haven’t gotten any responses to your ad. Hell, for what you’re willing to pay I’d consider giving upmyday job.”

Grumpy, er, Mr. Hale shoots his friend a look. “Maybe I need someone older. If I haven’t gotten any bites, maybe it’s because undergrads don’t have the kind of experience I’m looking for.” He looks to me and adds, “No offense.”

Something clicks into place, and before I can think better of it I blurt out, “That’syourad hanging up on our bulletin board?”

His tone is defensive when he answers, “It’s mine.”

I try to stifle the giggle that’s pushing past my lips but it’s no use. I’m picturing that ridiculous flyer, but now I’m hearing this stern, borderline angry guy ticking off each and every qualification.No exceptions!

“I could venture a guess as to why you’re not getting any bites.”

Thompson’s eyes go wide while Sheffield cracks a smile and pats Libby’s dad on the back. “Was it lacking in, say, civility?”

I look past Mr. Hale to his friend. “It was somewhat off-putting. You could say that.”

Oh boy. Mr. Hale is mad now. “How is it off-putting? It’s concise and direct.”

I’m playing him now, because riling him up is fun, especially since I havenointention of working for him. “I was laughing when I read it. Would I have to submit a transcript, recent bloodwork, fingerprints and a DNA swab? I mean, requiring a 3.5 GPA and Red Cross certification for a babysitting gig is a little much, no?”

Thompson is looking a little horrified, and starts babbling like he’s nervous or something. “I can personally attest to her qualifications in terms of GPA. Skylar earned a full merit scholarship as a transfer student from her local community college, and I know you need a near-perfect grade point average to qualify for that award.”

“Skylar has always been a model student.” Grace has joined us now. She’s smiling at Mr. Hale when she adds, “And lucky for you, she worked summers as lifeguard at our town pool.” She snaps her fingers. “First aid and CPR certified to boot.”

“Grace!”

She extends her hand. “My name is Grace Dawson. And you are?”

He takes her hand while I stand there like a bystander to my own life. “Leo Hale.”

“Well, Leo, I can’t think of a more qualified young woman forthisjob or any other.” She’s really laying it on thick and enjoying this entirely too much. “I’ve known Skylar for years, and as her former teacher I can tell you that she’s a dedicated and hard-working person who also happens to be kind and caring.”

“Stop. Talking,” I whisper to Grace.

Sheffield is enjoying this too. “And we already know Libby would be over the moon.” He looks from Hale to me. “Shestillhasn’t stopped talking about you.”

Now Jack has joined us, and he zones in on Thompson, obviously eager to make a connection with one of the department heads aligned with his program. Grace stands by her man’s side to join in on the schmooze fest just as Sheffield excuses himself, which leaves just me and Mr. Hale.

Can you say awkward?

Looking to the ground, he stuffs his hands in his pants pockets. “I didn’t realize the ad would come off as obnoxious.”

“It’s not that bad. And I’m sorry for poking fun, especially in front of your friends. You’re just looking out for Libby. And even though it did make me laugh, I get it.”

He looks around the room. “Not exactly my friends. Ed, kind of, but your boss is just another faculty administrator kissing up to me. He also chairs the Endowment Fund Committee.”

“I didn’t know that. I guess I need to personally thank him for my scholarship, huh?”

The big man finally cracks a genuine smile. “It sounds like you earned that on your own. So, are you really looking for a job?” When I don’t give an answer right away, he adds, “It pays twenty-five an hour.”

“Dollars?”

That’s more than double what I make at my work study gig.

“Yes. But, uh, it is contingent on a few things.”

“I’m listening.”

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