Chapter 17

“Good. Good.” Andre smiled. “Look, I know I said that this was just a training day so you wouldn’t get paid and all, but since you got a kid, I’ll give you sixty bucks for the day.”

Sixty bucks. That barely covered a decent dinner and half his cell phone bill. Working for minimum wage would be tough, but he had no skills. No real education. What else could he do?

“Thanks.” Rain adjusted his black apron. “Just need to make this call.” Three days ago, by the school fence, Bernie had insisted he take her number in case he needed a little help with juggling his job search and Pip’s schedule. But would she agree to pick his son up and watch him until he got off work? Heart in mouth, Rain dialed her number.

Bernie picked up on the first ring. “You gotta job?”

“Yes, and I—I was—well—”

“What time to you want Pip back home?”

“Bernie, thank you so much. Of course I’ll pay you.”

“Gimme a fucking break.” She scoffed. “I’ll bring him home for five.”