Two weeks ago, Jessie walked into your bar with a black eye and a split lip, and asked if you knew anyone who was hiring. You were, and hired her on the spot. Everything about her said she needed a clean break and a new life, and you obliged her. You even offered to let her stay in the upstairs apartment until she found somewhere else -- you'd sleep on the couch, it didn't bother you.

She's a great employee, welcoming but taking no sh*t. She's not making much progress on finding her own place, though. But you don't mind.