Page 33 of This Heart
Smiling, I glanced at Liam. “A new book, huh?”
Winnie nodded her head.
“Well, let’s head on over so you can pick out your book,” I said as I put Winnie down and took her hand. Liam followed behind us.
Glancing over my shoulder, I asked, “How did the visit with Kim go today?”
“It went well. She’s going to start Monday.”
I stopped and turned to face him. “You hired her?”
He nodded. “Yeah. I mean, she’s the perfect fit. I know her, she’s young and able to keep up with Winnie. And the best part, Winnie liked her.”
Winnie walked over to the new books display in the children’s section. I always set up a small display, and since Winnie had been to the bookstore so often, she knew that the display was all new books.
“I’m…well…I’m glad she liked her.”
Liam frowned. “Why do I feel like there is a but in there?”
Stay in your lane, Aurora.
“Not at all. Liam, this is your choice. Winnie is your daughter, and if you feel comfortable with Kim, then that is who you should hire. Did you think about contacting the other agency though, like Harper and I suggested?”
He shook his head. “I don’t see a need. Kim and Winnie hit it off, and I’m comfortable with Kim. It won’t feel like a stranger is in my house. Plus, she can start right away, which is even better!”
I raised my brows.
“Call me crazy, but all those other women were not a good fit. What are the odds that someone I know would be the last person we interviewed? It’s fate.”
I didn’t want to point out that Hope had been jealous of me spending time with Winnie and that I hardly thought she would love the idea of an ex-girlfriend watching her daughter, so I smiled instead.
Turning, I saw Winnie looking at a book I had just gotten. The book wasPringle and Finn.
“Did you find a book, Winnie?” I asked.
She held up the book and nodded.
“That was fast,” Liam said as he picked Winnie up, holding the book tightly in her hands. Liam started for the counter to pay for the book. “Are we still on for movie night tomorrow evening?”
Smiling, I said, “Yes! Everyone is a go for it.”
“Do you need me to order the pizzas?”
I waved him off. “No, don’t be silly. You’re letting everyone come to your house for it. Harper will get the pizzas ordered, and I’m in charge of the drinks. Cadie, of course, is bringing the dessert. Brystol and Gavin can’t make it, but they said next time for sure. Being new parents, I don’t think they’re ready to leave Lily at home yet.”
Liam smiled. “I don’t blame them one bit. If you do need me to do anything, please let me know.”
With a quick nod, I replied, “I will.”
Lou proceeded to ring up Winnie’s book while I put it in a bag with a few stickers for Winnie. Liam paid and took his daughter’s hand. He looked like he was unsure what to say.
“Kim will start Monday.”
I cleared my throat. “You said that.”
“I did?”
“Yes,” I said with a soft laugh. “If you need anything or Kim needs anything, please let her know I’m more than happy to help.”
