Transaction

Work

The next day started out the same. Kids ate breakfast, kids went to school or daycare, and I went to work. Danielle didn't work today, so I was bored out of my mind. I checked my phone and saw a PayPal notification. It said someone was paying me 20 dollars. The note said "For the kiss and great night. -Devon"

I raised an eyebrow and accepted the money. Already getting paid? Awesome. The day dragged on, my coworkers walking about talking to customers, me working on stuff in the back. Then Jack, my assistant manager, called for me. I went up to the front and saw Devon in front of the counter. "Hey there, stranger."

I smiled in response. He motioned for me to follow him. As we walked towards the front of the store, he mentioned quietly, "you know, you have a very kissable face. I wanted to lean over the counter and kiss you, but I refrained. It took a lot of self control."

"What do you want?" I asked.

"Don't be rude, remember the rules. I just wanted to know when I'd see you again."

"And you couldn't just call me?"

"Would you have answered?"

He got me there. I probably wouldn't have. I felt some shame, and I apologized. "Sorry. I get off today at 3, then I pick up the kids. I'll be free at 4."

"I'll see you at 3."

"I just said 4."

"I noticed you didn't have a car. So I'll pick you up at 3 then drive you. I'll get to meet your siblings, too."

I just stared at him. "You want to meet my siblings?"

He nodded. "We barely know each other, I recognize that, but you're important to me. I want to meet those that are important to you."

"Okay."

He looked around then kissed me on the forehead. He walked out of the store. The rest of the shift dragged on very slowly, but eventually it ended. I said goodbye to everyone and saw Devon in the corner. I walked over to him. He led me to his car, a nice black SUV, and I directed him to the daycare. We went inside. Luna ran up and hugged me, like she did every day, then gave open hug arms to Devon. He got to his knees and hugged her. "Hi, I'm Devon." He said softly.

"Devon!" Luna cheered.

Jasper hesitantly made he way over to us and hid behind my legs, stealing glances at Devon. Devon waved, but didn't force any interaction. He drove us home, helping me put the kids in brand-new car seats. Once to our house, we all went inside. The house was a dirty shack compared to Devon's, but he had a face on like a kid at Christmas. Ozzy was eating the last of the snacks, while Charlie was doing homework. Charlie looked up and asked, "Who's he?"

"My new boss." I responded quickly.

Charlie was 16 now, and could usually see through he my lies. But he nodded and went back to his work. Ozzy waved at Devon then went to his room, accidentally leaving crumbs behind like he's Hansel and Gretel. "Charlie, would you mind taking care of the kids again tonight, I have some extra work I need to do."

"I don't mind. They're easy. Play Minecraft with Ozzy, and basically just feed the others. I'm all good."

I gave him a little hug and left with Devon.