Heart's Haven

by Lois Richer

  “You let me know if I can help.”

  “Yeah. I’m sure.”

  “I mean it, Red. If there’s anything I can do, I’d like to help.” Cassidy met her stare without flinching. “That’s why the Haven is here. To help.”

  Red broke eye contact, focused on her chained boots. “She needs a job.”

  Cassidy didn’t hesitate.

  “Has she ever worked in a kitchen before?”

  “At home, every day,” the girl quipped. “Why?”

  “I might be looking for some kitchen help. Part-time only, till after lunch. Could you get her to come in and see me?” Experience had taught Cassidy that mornings were the worst time for drinkers. Having a reason to get up sometimes helped.

  “I don’t know.” Red’s suspicion was evident. “You’re serious?”

  “Very.”

  The teen studied her for a moment before she nodded. “I’ll see what I can do.”

  “Good.” Cassidy picked up her drinks and headed back toward Ty. “See you later.”

  “Hey, cook.”

  She paused, glanced over one shoulder at Red.

  “That cake was awesome. If I was into cooking, that’d be my fave.”

  “You don’t cook?” The redhead shook a negative response. “Ever?” Cassidy asked in disbelief.

  Red shrugged. “I don’t starve but I’m not into slaving over a stove. I can get by on pizza.”

  “You want to taste real pizza, you come to the karaoke night we’re planning,” Cassidy challenged. “If my pizza doesn’t make you want to learn to cook, I’ll give you ten bucks.”

  “Deal. Easiest ten I’ll ever make.” Red sauntered away with a cocky sway.

  Cassidy froze for a moment as the glimmer of an idea stewed in her brain. Then she snapped out of her fog and hurried back to the table where Ty sat frowning.

  “What did she want?”

  “Who? Red?” Cassidy set down the cups then took her seat. “I offered her mother a job.”

  “What?” His jaw jutted forward.

  “It’s only for a couple of hours every morning.”

  “But I had already chosen someone.”

  She pinned him with a glare born from frustration. “I can use two people or you can give the other person something else to do.”

  “Because?”

  “Because there’s a reason I want Red’s mom.”

  “What reason?” His tone oozed skepticism.

  Cassidy tamped down her frustration by chewing on a raw carrot. Did he really not get it?

  “If her mother is working here, doesn’t it seem unlikely that Red will cause problems for us?”

  Ty had the grace to look embarrassed.

  “Sooner or later I’m going to realize you’re always two steps ahead of me and stop putting my foot in my mouth.” He surveyed the room with a frown. “I still don’t see Jack.”

  “I wasn’t exactly watching, but I don’t think he’s been around since before Red and her group came in.”

  “That kid is going to be the death of me.”

  “Don’t be silly. Jack’s a great kid. You don’t have to worry about him. He’s probably sitting outside, shooting the breeze with the other kids.”

  Ty grimaced. “I hope not.”

  “Why? Are you some kind of snob?”

  “Me?” He wrinkled his nose. “No.”

  “Then why shouldn’t Jack make friends?”

  “Friends?” Ty snorted. “I’m not against him making friends. It’s the vandalism, assault and theft I don’t want him to learn.”

  “All the kids in this neighborhood are into those things?” Cassidy knew she’d struck home when a look of chagrin washed over his face.

  “I wasn’t saying that and you know it. But a lot of the gang members are Jack’s age. Can you blame me for wanting him to avoid them?”

  No, she couldn’t. But she’d come from this area and she hadn’t fallen in with any drug lords.

  “It’s a tough area, Ty. The kids here don’t have a lot to do with their spare time. You can’t blame them. Sometimes it’s easier to join a gang and be part of something than it is to always fight the problems at home alone.”

  “Is that how it was for you?” he asked softly.

  “Sort of,” she admitted, knowing he’d immediately assume she’d been like Red. “My mother died when I was quite young. I was the oldest with two younger sisters. But my dad was hardly ever home so I had to play mom, which didn’t leave a lot of time to hang with anyone.”

  “It must have been a painful time for you.” His voice dropped, softened. “I’m sorry, Cassidy. I need to watch what I blurt out.”

  “No, you don’t. But you need to stop making assumptions. You can find good and bad people everywhere, Ty.”

  “Believe me, I do know that. I didn’t stay in Ir—the military very long before that lesson was driven home.” He dragged a hand through his hair. “It’s just that Gail left Jack in my care. I don’t want to mess up.”

  “Who says you’re going to?” Cassidy jerked her head toward the group of preschoolers playing in one corner. “You didn’t mess that up. Your day-care center is a real hit.”

  “It’s not mine,” he protested. “Not really. The women had the idea. I just helped them pull it together. But so far the coop idea seems to be working.”

  Everything about Ty changed as he watched the children. His face lost that ragged, careworn appearance; his eyes softened to a robin’s-egg blue. His chin dropped and his shoulders relaxed their rigid structure. He’d be a pushover as a daddy, which made her wonder why Ty and Jack didn’t jibe.

  “I suppose you didn’t have anything to do with the seniors’ lunch I’m apparently cooking next week, either?” Cassidy chuckled at his surprise. “You can’t keep secrets around the Haven.”

  “I wasn’t intending to keep it a secret, really. I simply hadn’t gotten around to speaking to you about doing it. Will it be too much?” Ty’s earnest face echoed his tone. “I wouldn’t dare ask except they came to me with the idea.”

  “I think it’s wonderful.”

  Many of her neighbors, people who’d helped her out in those dark days of her youth, now needed her help. It felt good to give back. “It’s not a big deal to make some soup and sandwiches, cut up some fruit.”

  Ty studied her as if he didn’t quite understand. Well, why would he? Sometimes Cassidy didn’t understand herself. She’d thought six months here would be nothing short of a penal sentence. Instead she was finding a freedom and joy she hadn’t experienced in years.

  Ty must be experiencing something of the same for he’d finally stopped assessing and started doing.

  “Thank you,” was all he said.

  “You’re welcome.”

  As they ate, the room slowly cleared out. A few people stopped by to say thank you and offer to help clean up, but most scurried away as if they couldn’t believe their luck in getting a free meal. The groceries Davis had collected from the church and left in bags near the door disappeared quickly causing Cassidy to wonder how long it had been since some of the older ones, the helpless ones, had eaten.

  “You never did tell me what Red said to you.”

  “Hmm?” She glanced at Ty as the idea came flickering back. “It wasn’t so much what she said. Well, it was, but—”

  “You don’t have to tell me.” His eyes narrowed. “But you got an odd look on your face and I wondered if she’d said something bad.”

  “Not bad. She gave me an idea. But I have to let it percolate for a while. Then I’ll tell you about it.”

  Ty grinned. “By then it will be too late for me to stop whatever you’re thinking of doing.”

  “Exactly.” She crossed her arms over her chest and smiled smugly.

  He rose, hooting with laughter as he carried his plate to the rack by the kitchen. Cassidy followed, slightly amazed that this was the same man she’d debated with such a short time ago. Ty actually seemed glad she was planning things.
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  “So, when’s the next big meal?”

  She blinked, startled by the question, then grabbed opportunity and told him her plan. He listened, nodded.

  “If you can handle it, I’m fine with your decision. Do you want to keep the same helpers?”

  They discussed staffing for a few minutes. Then Jack reappeared and Ty’s demeanor altered.

  “I’d better go see what he’s been up to.”

  “Ty?” Cassidy touched his arm while her brain told her to mind her own business.

  “Yes?” he asked, a hint of impatience evident in the glance at her hand.

  “I probably shouldn’t say this but don’t push him too hard about the gang, okay? He’s new here, he’s trying to fit in and he’s almost a teenager. If you jump too soon he won’t let you in on what’s on his mind and believe me, you want your nephew to confide in you.”

  He frowned. “And you know this because?”

  She grinned.

  “I told you, I had two younger sisters. I learned about teens while being one. I’m sure I’ve forever damaged their psyche or something because of our battles.” She held his gaze. “Just listen before you do anything else.”

  Ty considered then slowly nodded. “I’ll try.”

  It was more than she’d expected.

  While her volunteers finished cleaning the kitchen, Cassidy sat down to work on her menus. She’d been at it for an hour when she realized the others had left and she was alone, save for the thin woman standing in the doorway.

  “Can I help you?”

  “I am Irina Markovich. My daughter tells me you have job for me.”

  “You must be Red’s mother. Come in. Would you like a cup of coffee?”

  As soon as Irina moved into the light, Cassidy caught a glimpse of bruising above Irina’s left eye and noted the slightly stiff movement as the woman sat down. Her heart sunk as she recognized the signs. Irina had been beaten.

  Briefly Cassidy laid out her needs and the duties the job would entail.

  “Is this something you might be interested in?”

  “I would very much like to help you in k—in the kitchen.”

  In fact the expression on Irina’s face hinted that the job might be the answer to a prayer. As if God actually answered prayers.

  Cassidy scolded herself. It wasn’t the Almighty’s ability she doubted, it was her prayers He didn’t seem to heed.

  “Good. Can you start Monday morning?”

  “Yes.”

  “Then you’re hired.” Belatedly Cassidy remembered Ty. “If you don’t have to rush away, I’d like you to meet the director of the Haven. Mr. St. John gets final say, but I don’t think he’ll have a problem with you.”

  “I will work very hard,” Irina assured her.

  “I know you will.” As they walked up the stairs to Ty’s office Cassidy searched for common ground. “Your accent—it’s Russian, isn’t it?”

  “Yes.” Irina’s pale cheeks glowed bright red. “I try—I am trying,” she corrected, “very hard to speak good English.”

  “You’re doing very well,” Cassidy assured her. Then she started singing in Russian. “I worked with a Russian chef who insisted I learn his language.”

  Irina’s self-consciousness disappeared as she responded with a Russian joke. They were both laughing as they walked toward Ty’s door, which was probably why Cassidy didn’t hear the argument until it was too late to turn away.

  “It’s not safe to be wandering the streets after dark, Jack. I’ve told you how rough—”

  Cassidy rapped on the door and opened it quickly, before they were forced to overhear any more.

  “Sorry to interrupt,” she apologized. “I wanted you and Irina to meet.” She introduced them. “And Jack, of course.” She smiled at the boy, flinching at the rebellious glint in his eye. “Irina’s going to start helping me in the kitchen on Monday morning.”

  “Welcome. I hope you’ll enjoy it here, Irina.” Ty shook her hand but didn’t get to say anything else because Jack interrupted.

  “Are you Red’s mother?”

  “Yes, I am.” Poor Irina cringed as if embarrassed by her daughter’s activities.

  “Well, we don’t want to keep you, Ty,” Cassidy said pointedly. “I just thought you’d like to meet. Irina and I have some stuff to talk about.”

  Cassidy turned and headed for the door but just before she stepped through, Ty grasped Irina’s arm.

  “Wait!”

  A whimper whispered past the woman’s white pinched lips as she drew her arm away and tucked it against her side.

  “I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to grab so hard.” Ty looked at Cassidy helplessly.

  “I fell down this morning. My arm hurts.” Irina stared at the floor.

  “I’m always injuring myself,” Cassidy said. “My friends used to say I’m like a walking bandage. What was it you wanted, Ty?”

  “I wanted to ask Mrs. Markovich something.” Ty paused a moment, his forehead pleated. “One of the construction workers mentioned the name Markovich earlier today in reference to basketball. Would that happen to be your husband?”

  Irina’s face tightened. She nodded once.

  “Perhaps he’d be interested in helping coach a children’s team,” Ty said.

  “I do not think he has much time.” Irina moved toward the door. “Excuse me, it is later than I realize. I must go.”

  “I’ll see you Monday,” Cassidy called as the other woman hurried down the stairs and outside, quickly disappearing into the street.

  “She acts like she’s afraid of something.” Jack stood behind her, watching.

  “Maybe she is.” Cassidy turned, smiled at him. “Thanks for pitching in today, buddy. You did a great job and I appreciate it.”

  “Thanks!” Jack glanced at his uncle reproachfully.

  “I’m tired. I think I’ll get my coat and go home.” Cassidy almost made it to the bottom of the stairs before Ty’s voice stopped her.

  “Jack wants to finish a chess game with Mac. Why don’t I drive you?”

  She didn’t need time to consider it.

  “Thanks. I’d appreciate it. I’m so tired my legs barely function. Too much time off before I came here, I guess.”

  “Meet you at the front door?”

  “Thanks.” Cassidy returned downstairs to check everything, clicked off the lights and grabbed her purse and coat. She waited for him on the stoop outside, watching the neighborhood fall into its night patterns.

  “You look a thousand miles away.”

  Ty held out a hand and despite her misgivings, Cassidy took it and let him escort her down the icy stairs, then let go.

  “Never left Chicago.” She walked beside him toward his car, noting the shiny new rims and wheels.

  Ty must have tracked her gaze.

  “Don’t even ask,” he ordered, his mouth tipped in a grim line.

  “Okay.”

  “Isn’t it a beautiful evening?” He rested a hand on her arm as they walked over the partially frozen yard. “When I was a kid, my dad took Gail and me outside after dark every Sunday night so we could watch the stars come out. We never felt the cold. We’d lie on the snow and peer up into the sky until each of us had identified at least two constellations and seen a shooting star. Then we’d go in for hot chocolate, giggling and laughing long after we were tucked up in bed.”

  “Sounds like you had a good childhood.”

  “Yes.” He held the car door, waited for her to get inside. “I think that’s what I’d like most for Jack to remember about his youth. Happy times.”

  “He will.”

  “I hope so.”

  Cassidy directed him to the little home Elizabeth had provided, and when they arrived, invited him in for tea.

  “I don’t have much of a yard, but you’re welcome to flop down on the snow out back if you want.”

  “Thanks anyway. Maybe another time.” He grinned. “Say, five months from now.”

  “Chicke
n.”

  “Absolutely.” Ty followed her inside, paused to study the cherished pieces she’d brought back from Europe. “Should I light the fire?”

  “Would you mind? Starting that fire usually takes me an hour. Then it’s time to put it out and go to bed.” She hung their coats up, then moved to the kitchen to brew tea.

  Last night she’d made a pie for her elderly neighbor, but since he’d left for a winter holiday this morning it still sat on her counter. Cassidy cut two slices, then carried everything to the living room.

  “Have a seat,” she said, wondering what Ty was thinking about as he peered so intently into the flames. He’d relaxed a little, lost the fan of lines around his eyes.

  He chose the overstuffed armchair that sat in front of the window and sniffed where her herb pots sat.

  “I can smell mint, parsley and dill but those are the only ones I’m familiar with. Guess I wouldn’t make it as a foodie.”

  “You named most of them.” She added a sprig of the spearmint to his tea. “Everything tastes better with fresh herbs.”

  “Having sampled your wonderful cooking, I agree.” He accepted the chunky mug, sampled the contents. “Mmm, delicious. I’ve never tasted anything like it before.”

  “It’s a blend I make for myself,” she explained. “Since I’ve come back, I find the food either too sweet or too salty. I’ve taken to drinking a lot of tea. It cleanses the palate and—”

  One glance at his face told her she was rambling. She handed him the pie.

  “Sorry. I hope you don’t find that too sour.”

  He judged it perfect.

  “If sweet and sour are the only differences you’ve noticed since you returned, you’re lucky.”

  The way he said it pricked her curiosity.

  “You must have noticed some differences when you came back, too.”

  “I did.”

  “Like?” Oh, that was stupid. His sister had just died. Of course he’d notice a difference.

  Ty tensed. His fingers pinched whiter around the mug. His back straightened. He waited several moments before answering.

  “The smells. People’s attitudes. Sounds.”

  “Is that why you aren’t able to sleep much?” She was getting personal but Cassidy needed to understand why he startled every time there was a loud noise, why he fussed so much about Jack if his nephew wasn’t in school or easily spotted nearby.