Guzman’s smile appeared within his thick beard, and Tucker’s grin was even wider.

“Be worth running the generator for a couple of hours,” Tucker said to Guzman. After nodding to Kit and Regina, the two men headed toward the stairs to the library on the second floor.

Audrey smiled at Regan and Aric. “Kit and Regina are going to talk about boring stuff, but I have coloring books and picture books.”

Regan edged closer to Audrey and whispered, “Can we get a Coke on the way up?”

Kit smothered a laugh. Regan’s father had firm opinions about what children should eat, and sodas weren’t on the list. No one at the Hermitage was strict about following Caz’s rules—and Regan knew it.

“Yes, but only if a Coke means I get quiet children in my library.” Audrey glanced at Kit. “Bribes are an accepted practice in child-sitting.”

“Absolutely.” When Aric squirmed to get down, Kit laughed. “Are you sure you want two children on your hands?”

“I’ll love it. The library closes in half an hour, so go run errands, and I’ll drive them home. I still have one of Aric’s seats in my car.”

Over the past weeks, the people at the Hermitage had acquired extra car seats and passed them around as needed.

“If you’re sure, then thank you.” As her son and Regan followed Audrey like quiet little mice, Kit shook her head. “I’ll have to remember the power of a bribe.”

Regina grinned. “A mother needs many tools in her parenting toolbox.”

“Look how big he’s getting. I swear, just yesterday, he was just a tiny baby.” Kit made a cradle of her arms. “And now? I’m going to need bigger tools.”

“For sure. Wait until he’s a teenager. I needed a whole new toolbox then.” Regina shook her head solemnly, then smiled. “Do you have a minute to talk?”

Worry swept through Kit. Did she owe money for the medical visits? Maybe her benefactor, Doc Grayson, had changed his mind? “Caz said you needed to see me. Is there a problem?”

“Oh, no, girl. I heard you’re job-hunting.”

Possible employment? Kit straightened to look more job-worthy. Unfortunately, after playing with the children, she had grass stains on her jeans and dirt streaks on her T-shirt. “Yes. Do you know someone who’s hiring?”

“I am.” Regina patted her desk. “Right here.”

“But…”

“As it happens, I have a beautiful new granddaughter.” Regina picked up a photo off the desk to show a two-month-old little girl with wispy hair, a button nose, and a rosebud mouth.

“Ooooh, she’s precious.”

“She really is.” Regina smiled fondly at the photo. “Lauretta doesn’t want to lose her job at McNally’s and asked me to babysit three days a week. Later, they’ll use the day care onsite at the resort, but—”