I jumped as I straightened, letting out a muffled squeak. The note left on my SUV yesterday had worked its way into my head. I’d sworn to myself that I wouldn’t let it, but the words had snuck in and were now wreaking havoc on my brain. The idea that someone, most likely my mother, wished me harm had me jumping at my own shadow.

I did my best to smooth out my expression as I took in the man in front of my station. He was tall with dark hair and features. Handsome with a bit of an edge. “Sorry about that. It’s just one of those days. What can I help you with?”

It was just a bit early for the lunch rush. Usually, the time when Griffin would’ve snuck in to avoid the lunch crowds. Just the thought had a little pang pinging in my chest. Even though I saw him several times a week now, I missed his surprise visits to the store. The demand for veggie-free sandwiches.

“I saw the Help Wanted sign in the window and thought I’d see if you’re looking for anyone part-time. I’ve heard great things about your sandwiches. I live over on Shelter, but word has made it that far that this is the place to get lunch on Anchor.”

The man’s deep voice snapped me out of my musings. “I’m glad to hear we’re making a name for ourselves. But if you live on Shelter, are you sure you want to commute over here for part-time work?” It was a bit of a haul. I didn’t think we needed the extra help yet. But Mr. Walters had shown up a couple of hours ago insisting that he wanted two people working at all times.

“I really need the extra hours. I’ve got a kid I’m trying to get joint-custody of, and lawyers don’t come cheap.”

There was little that would’ve made me want to hire someone more. Maybe because my parents had never fought for my siblings and me a day in their lives. “Do you have any grocery experience?”

The man smiled. “Bagging and stocking shelves in high school. But it’s been a minute since I’ve run a cash register. I’m Max, by the way.”

“Caelyn.” I reached out to shake his hand. “Sorry I didn’t make introductions.”

“No big.”

“What’s your availability?”

“I work nights at a bar on Shelter so I’m available for any day shifts here.”

It was exactly what we needed. And I had to admit, it would be nice not to have to run back and forth between the register up front and my kitchen in the back. “Looks like this might be a good fit. Why don’t you pull up a stool, and we can talk details while I make you a sandwich?”

“Really? Just like that?”