Page 99 of Burning Skies
After class, once I’m back at my desk in the office, I finally gather enough courage to look at my texts. I have several.
Trig: I can’t believe you’re doing this.
Trig: He’s gonna break your heart.
Trig: How do you know he’s not with you to get to me?
That last one makes me roll my eyes. Does my brother really think Beau is that spiteful?
Then I get messages from my other brother.
Cash: You’ve done it now.
Cash: I’m pretending this is the first time I’m hearing you’re dating the enemy.
Cash: I deserve an Academy Award. And more fucking donuts!
But the last text, the most ominous one, is from my father.
Dad: You’re going to regret this.
“Hey.” Trish sits on my desk, scaring me so badly, I drop my phone.
I lean over to pick it up, but now the screen is cracked. Son of a bitch.
Ignoring my look of exasperation, Trish gives me crazy eyes. “Did you sign up to chaperone the holiday bonfire? Because if you do, you can get a free hot dog.”
Be like Benvolio, Honey. Don’t choose violence today.“Thank you, Trish. I appreciate you letting me know.”
I get out a stack of essays to grade during my break, but she doesn’t leave. “Oh, I forgot. You have a message.” She hands me a piece of paper. “Someone’s in trouble! Haha, kidding.”
It’s a note from the principal to go see her. I press a hand to my stomach. Great.
When I get to the office, the secretary ushers me right in. Principal Erickson motions to come sit. “I was wondering if you’ve spoken to your father about the Harvester Club lately.”
“I haven’t. I’m sorry.” We had other pressing matters to address. Like how he was stepping out on my mom.
She nods slowly. “He called this morning to let me know that ‘due to unforeseen circumstances,’ he won’t be donating the money to buy the Turner property. And that you would know why.”
I close my eyes, hating that it’s come down to this. “I’m so sorry. He and I had a huge disagreement yesterday over something personal. I’m guessing this is his way of showing he’s not happy with me.”
She gives me a tight smile. “If we don’t get those funds by the end of December, we won’t be able to make an offer for that lot. Maybe you could talk to him? See if he’ll reconsider?”
The urge to puke returns with vengeance. “I’ll do my best.”
But I have a feeling I already know the answer.
And it’s not the one my boss wants.
37
BEAU
This three-day shiftfeels like an eternity. The bright spot is Melissa called in sick, so I don’t have to avoid her. Not that I want her to be under the weather. I’m just grateful I don’t have to deal with her right now.
I’m not sure what’s gotten into her lately. We obviously need to have a conversation, but I’m thankful it’s not this week.
As much as I hate being apart from Honey, I’m grateful I have something to keep me busy and take my mind off that bullshit with her brother.
