"Actually, I am not sure. I wonder why a wealthy man would choose to work for a day's wages?"
"He asked you for a job?"
Mr. Lawrence nodded. "Remarkable, isn't it?"
Hayley wiped her mouth with her napkin. Her thoughts were racing as she tried to make sense of what she had heard.
"Father, I suppose the reason Austin wants a job is because he prefers not to be spoiled by his wealth. He wants to live as though his existence depends on him alone, so that he will never be dependent on anyone."
"Why would he be pressed to seek employment from me, out of all the other businesses in Kingston?"
"He knew you would be kind to him."
"I don't believe he would need kindness, if he didn't need a job."
"Of course, he does not need a job." Hayley took another small bite of food and chewed slowly. She remembered her break up with Austin, and what he said about being disowned. "Did you give Austin a job?"
"He is my new bookkeeper." Mr. Lawrence took a fresh puff from his pipe.
"If you are concerned about us seeing each other, I assure you it will not happen."
"I am not convinced of it." He smiled.
"Mr. Sommers is not the least bit interested in me. If he were, he would have told me when he came to see me."
"What was the reason for his visit?" Maddie chimed in.
"He wanted me to know he called off his wedding."
Hayley's face turned red.
"We understand that, but why would he want you to know such a thing, if he has no feelings for you?" Mr.
Lawrence smiled softly.
"You began the conversation telling me about Austin coming to the dock for a job, as though it was of special interest to me. I did not ask if you had seen Austin lately.
You merely volunteered the information. I am sure all Austin intended to do, was volunteer information about his break up, since we have always been good friends."
The three exchanged glances.
"May I have my desert now, Maddie?" Hayley blurted.
Maddie nodded in agreement and went to the kitchen.
Hayley had hoped to discuss the possibility of attending college but decided to leave it for another day.