don’t think that’s a problem. I was drawn to Mallory before I even knew about Lizzie. If anything, it makes my protective streak that much more intense when it comes to her, because now there’s two. The fact there’s a kid involved doesn’t even seem to faze me, which I find odd. Not that I’m against dating single mothers or anything, but it can add a whole new level of complication I’m not looking for.
I nod at my friend and head over to Mallory’s table. When she sees me approaching, her eyes light up, and that right there is why I can’t stay away. The light in her eyes that seems to shine a little brighter when I’m near. The look of excitement and anticipation, which I’m sure is reflected in my own eyes.
The way she tells me she’s interested without so much as fluttering her eyelashes or nibbling on her bottom lip. It’s not about seduction or desire but about honesty and hope. That’s what I read from her gaze when those green eyes lock with mine.
Courage and bravery.
Yeah, I’m already a goner.
Chapter Twelve
Mallory
It’s Saturday afternoon when my phone rings. Finding the number for Burgers and Brew on the screen, I answer quickly. “Hello?”
“Hey, Mallory, it’s Isaac. We have a problem.”
“What’s up?” I ask, stepping into the kitchen and away from little ears.
“Jakki quit thirty minutes before her shift is supposed to start. Any chance you want the hours?”
“Oh, uh, I wish I could, but I don’t have a sitter available.” And that’s the truth. Mrs. Fritz is playing Euchre at the YMCA tonight, and there’s no way I could ask her to cancel. She’s been talking about it all week.
“What if I could help?” he asks, sparking a little bubble of hope. I’ve heard the stories of tips on Friday and Saturday nights, and if I could work a shift, I could secure my rent and utilities for next month. Of course, I’d have to have a sitter to make that happen.
“Help how?”
“What if I watched Lizzie for you?”
That makes me pause. “You?”
Isaac chuckles into the phone. “Yeah, me. I’m actually one of four kids, Mallory. Remember, I was raised by a single mom. I have six nieces and nephews, and I watch them regularly for my siblings. I wouldn’t mind helping you out.”
I swallow hard over the emotions. No one has volunteered to help me out as much as Isaac and Walker. Sure, I had some friends in Gibson who would take Lizzie for a few hours, but the moment the shit hit the proverbial fan, they all seemed to turn their backs to avoid the spray, leaving me to take the brunt on my own. “Umm, are you sure?” I whisper, grateful for the offer, yet not really allowing myself to believe it.
“Of course I am. I wouldn’t have volunteered if I wasn’t.”
“Okay, uh, can I call you back in a minute? I want to talk to Lizzie.”
“Not a problem. The other servers are pitching in and covering the tables right now, but I will need to call someone else if it’s not going to work out,” he says before signing off.
I go to the living room and find Lizzie playing on the floor. “Hey, sweetie, can I talk to you a minute?” She nods and comes over, taking a seat on my lap. “Do you remember my friend Isaac from work? The man who had the coloring book and crayons in his office for you?” Again, she nods. “Well, he asked me if I could come in and work for a while tonight, and Mrs. Fritz isn’t home. My boss Isaac volunteered to come play with you.”
“Will he color?”
I smile down at her. “I’m sure he would.”
“And pway dress up?” A bark of laughter slips from my lips. “That I’m not sure about, but you could ask him.”
She seems to think for a few seconds before answering, “Otay.”
“Okay? That means Isaac would have to get you dinner and help you get ready for bed. Mommy won’t be home when you go to sleep, but I’ll be here when you wake up in the morning.”
I can tell the wheels are spinning. “But Isaac will be here wiff me?” I love the way she says his name. I comes out I-sick.
“He will be with you the whole time until I get home tonight.”
“Otay, he can come pway.” And just like that, she’s up and running away from me.
“Where are you going?” I ask.
She slows but doesn’t stop.