For a moment he stared into his coffee. Without taking his eyes from it, he finally spoke. "You've got a better summer job, if you'll accept."
He was full of surprises. She stared at him. "Doing what?"
His gaze lifted to hers. "I need someone to take care of Tammy and help Mom with the house and garden."
Not more than four hours ago he was so mad at her that he could hardly speak. He couldn't wait to get her out of the house. Now he was offering her a job taking care of his family? Not that the idea didn't have some appeal. The place was quiet and secluded, and Sarah would be a sweet person to work for. Still, working for Giddon would be a challenge. And why had he chosen her? Pity? She eyed him suspiciously. "What makes you think I'm qualified for the job?"
He shrugged, returning his attention to the coffee in his cup. "I know you as well as I know anyone else."
He didn't know her at all, but that was beside the point. "You can't find a sitter closer to your home?" she asked skeptically.
He swirled the coffee in his cup and lifted that piercing gaze to her face. "Do you want the job or don't you?" His expression was unreadable.
"I don't know. What does it pay and what are the hours." Not that it mattered. It was too far to consider driving every day, even if she had a car.
"I hadn't thought . . . How about $250 a week - plus room and board? As for hours, whenever you're needed, whether it is three hours or twelve."
He hadn't thought about a sitter before now, or hadn't thought about how much he would pay? Somehow, the concept of spontaneity didn't fit him. So, what was his motive? Remembering the kiss, she was inclined to decline his offer. And yet, his offer was generous. Living in that house and using the pool would be like a summer vacation, not a job. It would be an excellent opportunity to get out of this house with its unpleasant memories. On the other hand, putting up with his volatile moods wouldn't be exactly easy. And what did she know about him? She heard her voice speaking impulsively.
"I'll take it. When do I start?"
For a moment he looked as startled as she felt. Then his face engaged in a smile that created little wrinkles around his eyes and grooves in his cheeks. "Good. Pack your clothes and come back with me."