Page 68 of Help Wanted

“But it’s not Saturday. It’s only Thursday.”

“I know. We’re mixing it up.”

Hunter smiled and waved at her as he followed his older brother out the door, carrying his crutches instead of using them.

“I get to go home with my brother on a Thursday.” He spent most of his time at Elmhurst, but his brother’s apartment was considered home.

* * *

It was obvious something was wrong when Brady walked into the office. Kenley could feel the tension coming off the already intimidating man. He had a younger man with him who had to be related to him. They looked so much alike.

“I have a huge favor to ask,” he said as he placed both palms on her desk and leaned over. “This is my brother, Hunter. Would it be okay if he sat in here with you until I get these boats loaded up? Then I’ll take him home.”

“Sure.” Kenley didn’t understand why he needed to be watched. Her confusion must have showed.

“Hunter, why don’t you go wash your hands?”

“Do I need my crutches?”

“Does it hurt when you walk?”

“No.”

“Then you can leave them here.”

Hunter walked down the hall and went in the right door on the first try. He must have been here before.

“When I was in Iraq, our drunk of a mother wrecked her car and nearly killed Hunter while managing to kill herself. I’ve been taking care of him ever since he woke up from the coma. He’s not dangerous. He hurt his ankle today at the home. I didn’t want to leave him there.”

His expression tensed on the last part, but she nodded.

“Sure. I’d love to have some company.” She was sick of staring out the window, thinking about Zane.

“He won’t be in the way. He’ll be fine to sit and look through magazines until I’m finished.” Hunter came out of the bathroom, waving his hands that weren’t quite dry.

“Hunter, this is Kenley.”

“Sidney is home with Baby Paige. We took her a stuffed rabbit last weekend.”

“Right. I want you to stay with Kenley until I come back, okay?”

“How many minutes?”

“I’m not sure yet. I’ll let you know.”

“Okay.” Hunter took a seat and picked up the first magazine. “Don’t get in the car with Mom,” he said with a wave to his older brother.

Brady let out a sigh and went through the door that would take him out to the shop.

Other than the occasional swish of a turning page, Hunter was as quiet as a mouse. It meant she was able to focus on her job, but it also meant she found herself staring out the window again, thinking about Zane.

When Brady came in to collect Hunter, he thanked her profusely.

“It was no problem at all.”

“It was nice meeting you,” Hunter called by the door.

“It was nice to meet you too.”