I clench my jaw, burning my gaze into the back of her head, but she refuses to glance up. There’s no way it’s not her.Kenzie.
Joyce gives me a little shove. “Have a seat.”
She shuffles past me and takes the chair at the head of the table. The only remaining spot is directly across from this McKenzie.
I try to allow a small hope that this is just a coincidence and she’s not the same woman that I brought into my house, but when I move past her and get a fresh whiff of strawberries, my hands turn into fists while I attempt to keep my face neutral.
I take my seat, and that small sliver of hope I had is set on fire. “So, how long hasKenziebeen volunteering here?” The disdain is clear in my voice. Then again, I didn’t try hard to hide it thanks to my shock at seeing this particular woman here.
Kenzie’s lips thin, and her hazel eyes finally land on me, but she keeps her mouth shut as Joyce answers. “Her boss is my daughter who knew we needed help. Let’s make sure we all help her feel welcome and that we don’t scare her away on the first day.”
Joyce’s foot finds my shin when she’s done speaking, and I let out a soft grunt. Snarky old woman. She’s lucky I have all the respect for her.
“Of course. What’s first on the agenda?” I ask, my tone now filled with the professionalism I should have had before.
I’ve faced worse under more uncomfortable circumstances. I can handle this woman for a little while longer.
At least, that’s what I tell myself as I do my best not to give Kenzie any more attention than I need to.