“I like your bracelet,” Gina said, stepping around me and going over to Jess.
I started to lunge forward but held back. I was in a safe space, and this woman clearly was here to interview for a position to be around my daughter.
Jess looked at me before kneeling down next to Gina and offering her wrist. “It’s made of kangaroo leather. My mom got it for me when I was younger.”
“You talk funny,” Gina said.
I opened my mouth to say something, but Jess was first.
“I’m from Australia,” Jess said.
“Where’s that?”
“It’s in the deep south,” Jess said with a smile. “What’s your name?”
“Gina.”
“I love that name.”
“Really?” Gina asked.
“Yep. I’ve never met a Gina before.”
“Me neither!” Gina said. “Want to color with me?”
“If it’s okay with your dad?”
“Daddy can color too,” Gina said.
Gina pulled out a chair for Jess and I and then sat. She gave us each a coloring page and continued with hers.
Jess picked a blue crayon and rolled it around in her hands.
“I suppose I have a few minutes for an interview,” I said. Clearly, Gina liked Jess, which was a big priority for me. And I had to admit that I was charmed by Jess as well. Within seconds, she had my little girl’s full attention. That was hard to come by with anyone, including Layla.
“I’ve been watching children since I was sixteen. I have my degree in early childhood education. When I came over here, I got several short-term jobs before landing a long-term one with a lovely family. I was with them for two years un
til I was no longer needed. All of my certifications are current as well.”
“Color your clouds blue,” Gina said to Jess.
I almost corrected Gina for being so forceful, but I found myself enamored with the woman in front of me.
Jess started on her coloring page. “How old are you, Gina?”
“Three!” Gina said, holding out three fingers to Jess.
I cleared my throat. “I’m looking for long-term. And I need someone to start right away.”
Jess nodded. “I’m available.”
“I’ll need references from your previous employers.”
“I have all contact information listed on my resume.”
“That’s good,” I said.
“Can you tell me about your family?” she asked.