Page 29 of The Devil

Why is the pay so much?

“Oh, well, that’s because you’ll have to move into the house and take care of it around the clock.”

Cassia crouches down and picks up the document. She places it on the counter again and points at the section that outlines my duties, which consist of keeping the house clean and accepting deliveries.

I write on the blank cash receipt again.

The pay is still too much.

Cassia lets out a chuckle. “You’re the first person I’ve met who’s complaining about the income being too high. Would you feel more comfortable if we lowered the amount?”

Oh my God, she’s being serious. This isn’t a prank someone’s playing on me.

My mouth drops open, and I reread the offer, then I scribble on my piece of paper again.

Is this for real?

“Yes, but there is a catch.”

My shoulders slump, and I let out a sigh.

“You’re expected to start right now. If you accept, I’ll drive you to your house and wait while you pack your clothes before taking you to Tower.”

My eyebrows draw together, and I glance around the store. Mr. Cahoon will be furious if I just up and leave.

As if Cassia can read my thoughts, she says, “The owner of this gas station doesn’t care about you, Jenna. The job I’m offering you is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Don’t pass it by because of misplaced loyalty.”

There’s no misplaced loyalty. I hate working here.

I write on the paper again.

What if I leave with you and you change your mind? My boss won’t take me back.

Cassia holds up a finger and walks out of the store. She opens the SUV’s passenger door and comes back inside with a beautiful black handbag. It must cost more than everything in the store.

She sets the bag down in front of me. “This is for you. Whether you take the job or not.”

My eyes widen, and I hesitate before I pull the handbag closer.

God, if I’m sure I can sell it for at least five hundred dollars. Then I look inside and I start blinking fast because it’s filled with money.

Holy crap on a cracker!

My eyes dart to Cassia before I write a question again.

Is this for real?

Emotion washes over her face, then she nods while reaching across the counter and placing her hand on my forearm. “This isvery real, Jenna. Take the job. I promise you, you will not regret it. You’ll be safe and well cared for.”

I don’t know what it is about her, but I believe her.

Realizing the miracle I’ve been praying for is happening right now, my eyes flood with tears, and one emotion after another pours into my chest.

There’s a dotted line at the bottom of the document where my name is printed, and grabbing the pen from beside the cash register, I quickly scribble my signature.

“Good decision,” Cassia says. “Would you like me to call the owner of the gas station on your behalf so he can come take over from you?”

I nod and scribble down Mr. Cahoon’s name and number for her.