“You could smell me every day if you hired me.” I reply, desperate to be hired, desperate to get my life back on track.

But he pulls back slightly, his eyes searching mine as he seems to battle against himself. “I can’t mix business with pleasure. I can’t tangle my duties with my desires.” He says, his voice strained. “I’m sorry, Kerry. I know the girls have grown attached in just a day. I watched you care for them, teach them, make them laugh, and even fix up the classroom. I know you’re who they need,” His hand trembles slightly as he reaches out and grabs mine with his fingertips, sending a shiver down my spine. “Just, please give me a day to settle my feelings. I’ll call you with my decision soon.”

He gently kisses the back of my hand, a touch so tender it feels like a promise. Vic then takes a deep breath and rearranges his papers, slipping back into his composed businessman persona, concealing the vulnerability he briefly allowed me to see.

I stand frozen and frustrated because while I understand his struggle between personal grief and professional duties, between being a single father and a single man, his indecision still leaves my future hanging in the balance.

Ms. Tina appears at the doorway, expressing sympathy yet still signaling it’s time for me to leave. I nod, silently gathering the strength to walk away and continue on my path of rebuilding what was lost—no, what was taken from me. I know this is just another rejection, but it’s also another missed opportunity for someone to experience all I have to offer. My dedication to nurturing young minds, my unwavering optimism, and my deep-seated love to care for others is the essence of who I am

Soon, and very soon, someone will see that I’m the best at my job. So, to hell with Mr. Grimes and anyone else who can’t see my worth.

Chapter 8

A Damn Fool – Vic

Acollege degree. Six culinary arts certificates. Seven restaurants. Two recipe books. And even a cookware line. Yet, I’m still a damn fool. The biggest one of all.

I made the stupid choice to temper my desire for Kerry by thwarting my daughters’ well-being. I made the foolish decision to push her away in the most disrespectful manner. In the words of my daughters, I ghosted her.

As I sit in my study, reflecting on the laughter that filled my home a week ago. I realize Kerry’s presence is needed. It brought a lightness we had all been missing. And now, this void, this silence—it weighs on me as a constant reminder of what I might have just lost.