Page 28 of Help Wanted

“I used to be flirtable, and now apparently I’m not.”

“Oh–kay.”

“Second, I don’t know when he will be in next so I can’t plan ahead to wear a shirt that shows off my boobs. I only have two boob shirts.”

“Ah. I see. Wow. I think I need to go so I can have a real conversation with my six-year-old.”

“I know. I’m pathetic.”

“I don’t think it’s you, sweetie. You’re still very attractive, even without showing your boobs.”

“Thanks.”

Kenley called Rachel next. It didn’t seem wrong to make personal calls during the day. She was able to get all her work done and still have extra time. It seemed she’d never had enough time before, and now all she had was time. No matter how lonely and boring it was working at the office alone, it seemed worse being in her apartment. She’d talked to two guys at the grocery store, but neither encounter had progressed to a date. Apparently the theory that single men came to the grocery store to pick up women was a myth. It seemed they just needed food.

This pattern continued into the next week and the next.

No sign of Zane. His only contact was electronic, professional and a huge disappointment.

She did have a visitor one evening while she was closing up. But not the kind she was hoping for.

The three quick taps on the glass door made her jump, and seeing the police officer didn’t help. She knew she hadn’t done anything wrong, but that didn’t slow her speeding heart as she unlocked the door and let him in.

“Can I help you?” she asked.

“Is Zane around?” He walked into the lobby and glanced down the hall expectantly.

“No. He’s not here. He’s out of town.”

“And you’re the girl who took over for Sidney?” he asked, looking her over with a friendly smile.

“Yes. I’m Kenley Carmichael. The new girl.” She smiled up at him, though she wasn’t really new anymore. He was about the same height and build as Zane, but with sandy-blond hair and green eyes.

“I’m Officer Scott Porter.” He offered his hand and she reached out to shake.

“Are you related to the Porters—”

“Yes. My uncle owns the restaurant. Doesn’t the office close at five?”

She let out a sigh and looked at the clock that said quarter of six. “Yes. I got carried away and didn’t notice the time. I’m just going home to watch reality TV.”

“Yikes.” Scott winced. “We need to do something about that. I’ll check in the next time I have a night off and I’ll show you around.”

Was he asking her out? It kind of sounded like an order.

“Thanks, Officer Porter.”

“Call me Scott.”

“Okay,” she said, more because she was desperate for human contact than because she felt any real attraction to the policeman. He was cute enough and the uniform was hot, but she was more into T-shirts, flannel, and scruffy work boots.

She sighed as Scott stopped at the door on his way out.

“I didn’t notice a car in the parking lot.” New Haven was getting its money’s worth with this guy on the force.

“Right. I only live a few blocks from here. I walked.”

“It’s a little chilly.” He looked up at the dark sky. Two points for the incredibly perceptive officer. April was unpredictable and it had screwed her a couple of times. It was a good thing she’d purchased that ski jacket after all.