stood on it and looked out the side window. It wasn’t a deep bay window, but it was enough to get attention from the street. “This space is basically free advertising. You should use it.”
“What makes you think I’m not?” Hudson asked.
I glanced over my shoulder and smirked. “Because I’m standing in it, and there’s nothing here but me and a bunch of dust.” I turned and hopped off the platform and walked back over to Hudson. “You mentioned needing help. What if I said yes, I was interested?”
“I’m not hiring a public relations person. I need another clerk. Someone to help around the store.”
“I can do that. I worked in that capacity in high school and college. What’s the pay? When do you need me to start?”
“Whoa.” Hudson held up his hands, palm out, looking at me while shaking his head. “You said you didn’t live here. And Breckenridge is several hours away.”
“True, it is. I’m actually visiting a good friend and am considering a change of pace. This would certainly be that.”
“I’m sorry. I’m looking for someone more permanent.”
I tilted my head and studied Hudson. He had dark hair and eyes and had the perfect amount of scruff. His hair was straight, and he wore it short on the sides and back but longer on top. It was standing up in a messy style that I was sure took longer than looked. I couldn’t have my hair that long because the curls would become unruly at that length.
“I’m looking for something new. Something that doesn’t come with a crazy amount of stress. Hence the ‘until recently I worked for…’ comment.” I absently rubbed my stomach, remembering the ache that was always there now. I was doing what I could to reduce stress, and perhaps working in a small bookstore in Pleasant Grove was the answer.
“I’m not following. You said you didn’t live here and were just visiting a friend.”
“I am. But I’m also open to the possibility of relocating. Sure, I wasn’t exactly looking for work just yet but—”
“I can’t pay you what you were making before. Nowhere near that. It’s just barely over minimum wage, which I’m sure is insulting.”
I shrugged. “Money isn’t everything. But I think working here could be a lot of fun. And if you’re wanting suggestions, I have several. Signage only being one.”
Hudson gave me a thoughtful expression.
“I can start tomorrow.”
“How about a trial period? You said you’re only visiting, and I’ll gladly pick your brain for as long as I can.”
I didn’t even have to contemplate. “Deal. What do I need to fill out?”
Hudson nodded before he gestured for me to follow him. I did, and he led me over to the counter with the register. He reached under it and pulled out a folder. Inside were several sleeves, and after he found the one he wanted, he pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to me.
“I don’t suppose you have references?”
“I do. I can even give you the number for my last manager that I worked directly under for the past several years, but I’m not sure he’ll be very encouraging. When I tried to turn in my two-week notice, they booted me out the door and didn’t let me work even one more day. I have some personal references though.” My family still hadn’t talked to me. I’d been told to not call them until I was ready to come back. I wasn’t ready. I wasn’t going to be. Ever.
Hudson nodded as he handed me the piece of paper. I filled it out, and just the actions of doing so brought back long-ago memories. I’d not filled out such a basic form for employment since high school. After I had all of the little boxes filled, I gave it back to Hudson and waited.
“So tomorrow?” I asked, hopeful.
“Yeah. I open at nine, so if you can be here then, that would be great.”
“Absolutely,” I said. I gave Hudson one last look before I turned and left the bookstore. A quick glance told me I needed to hurry if I was going to meet Chris in time for lunch, so I sprinted across the street and to the next block over.
I didn’t see much when I looked left, but when I glanced right, I saw Chris’s little SUV parked on the street, so I went that way. I found the diner easy enough and quickly dove inside out of the cold.
“Sawyer,” Chris said from the front left. I smiled