Page 47 of Secret

"OK, Rachel," Demarco interrupted, misty-eyed. "I think what you're doing here is great, but I don't see where I fit in. I'm not sure what it is that you and Jack think I'm capable of doing... but I'm not ready for this kind of heartbreak."

Jack put his arm around Demarco.

"I understand," Rachel said. "It's hard... especially when you encounter troubled youth like Wilson on a daily basis."

"I just want to take him home with me."

She nodded. "Ultimately, the urge to do good outweighs the heartache—at least it did for me. Jack mentioned that you had a similar upbringing and wanted us to meet. That's all. And I approve... of you for him, that is," she said, smiling.

Demarco raised his eyebrow. "Now, I feel like I'm on two job interviews."

"Only one—and you pass with flying colors."

Jack squeezed him, kissing him lightly on the back of the head.

"And whether you decide to come work with us or not—there's no pressure either way. That means you too, Jack." She gave Jack a stern glance.

"Yes, ma'am," he answered... and Demarco was amused—and a little relieved—to hear Jack's response to her admonishment.

"I'm here most days. Feel free to stop by anytime—for any reason."

"Rachel—" Demarco said. "—if I did decide to work here, what qualifications are necessary? I barely have a GED."

"Some certifications are required," she said. "I can help you with those—no worries. We work in conjunction with the Wendy Aldridge Foundation."

"No decisions today, D," Jack said. "I just wanted you two to meet... and for you to see the center."

"The pay is not great," Rachel continued. "I'm not going to lie to you. We're non-profit."

"Yeah, I had assumed so. I have a nice home, Jack—a mortgage. I don't want to give that up."

"Maybe you don't have to."

"This job will not support me."

"What if you had dual income?"

"What—I hookanddo this?"

"No. What if I move in with you? Split the expenses."

"What are we,lesbians?" Demarco asked, incredulous... and then to Rachel, "No offense."

"None taken." Rachel said. "It's a valid stereotype."

"Maybe we could get a larger place," Jack said. "Move your mother up here."

"Now you're really moving fast."

"Am I?"

Demarco shook his head. "You'll do anything to get me out of other people's beds."

"And into mine."

This time Rachel laughed. She turned around quickly, pretending to be invisible.

Demarco looked back through the glass at Wilson sitting there quietly in front of the TV. He heaved a large sigh. "I'll think about it," he said. "Honestly, I will. But I'm, not making any promises. I can't make a decision like this without some thought... alotof thought."