“Um...” Victoria needed a minute to put her head back together. She blinked before shifting her gaze towards Debbie. “I’m working with John, I mean, Mr. Donovan—I’m working with the library in hopes of starting an internship.”

“He’s a librarian?” Debbie whispered. Her blue eyes were huge orbs behind her glasses. “The way he walked by was like a dream. It’s like he just appeared, smelling like the forest. Did you see his tattoos?”

“Yes, Deb, I saw all of it.” Victoria smelled him too.

“What does he do at the library?” Debbie asked.

“He’s the head of the children’s department.”

Debbie gasped. “You’re joking.”

Victoria sagged against the door frame and rolled her eyes. “That’s what it says on the library website.”

“He’s too hot to be a children’s librarian.”

She smiled in spite of herself. “Jeez, Deb.”

“It’s true,” Debbie said with a grin. “Oh, before I forget, are you going to the department meeting tomorrow? I’m ordering sandwiches for everyone.”

There is no such thing as a free sandwich. “Only if you’re buying.”

“Great, I’ll put you on the list,” Debbie said. “Are you heading out soon?”

“No, I’ve got to stick around and finish up some emails.”

The secretary hitched her purse on her shoulder, “You’re the only one who stays after office hours.” Her tone matched that of Paula’s: concern and judgement.

“These emails won’t send themselves.” She closed her office door and retreated to the safety of her desk. Behind the solid tank of a desk, she could control all the tasks set before her. Except one. John Donovan had rattled her, in her office, with his smile and his charm. Victoria tried to return to her computer, scrolling through the dozens of emails, all waiting to be answered.

I can tell I’m going to have to employ other methods on you.

After meeting John, it would be impossible for her to keep her mind on work. She hoped that the effects of his personality wouldn’t continue being a distraction in the future.

Chapter Six

Chapter Six

John searched the cupboards for something nutritious to feed his niece. He’d lost track of time and forgot to grocery shop. His short meeting with Victoria Reese was almost enough for him to forget Becca at the library. As he ran his hand through his hair, he searched the refrigerator next. A case of beer, a head of iceberg lettuce, leftover Chinese takeout, and a fuck-ton of condiments. This wasn’t good enough for a little girl. What do kids eat? What does Victoria like to eat?

“We should order a pizza,” said a haughty voice from behind him. He checked over his shoulder to see Becca with her hands on her hips. She had changed into her pajamas and tied her hair with a silk scarf.