Page 46 of Tangled Emotions

My plans after school were to meet with her to see what’s for sale in Port Stella.

I looked at the picture of my parents on my desk and smiled. “You both would love it here. And you’d be rooting for me to get the girl.”

When I looked online, there were two houses I really liked.

One was across town, the other was close to the school. Not that getting around was hard, but the one close to the school would allow me to walk to school.

Jerry poked his head into my office. “Would you mind helping police the playground?”

“Not at all.” I stood up and walked with him through the school to the play area.

I stood near the basketball court and watched as the kids were playing a game of horse.

“You know, them monkey bars have been a whole lot busier since you became the gym teacher.” Rhonda nodded at me.

“Why’s that?”

“You encouraged the kids to do what they can.” She smiled. “You are all my little Abigail talks about. Doc is the bestest teacher ever.”

Shaking my head, I blew my whistle at two boys trying to pull Matt down in the middle of crossing the monkey bars. “On the fence for five.”

They stomped over. “That’s not fair.”

“Neither is trying to derail someone’s work.” I pointed to the fence. “That wasn’t sportsmanlike conduct.”

Their faces drooped, and they muttered, “Yes, Doc.” as they made their way to stand against the fence.

“See. You’re good.” She nodded and walked over to the swings.

“Hey, Doc!”

“Hey, Matt.” I nodded at the young boy.

“Do you have a dad?”

“Odd question.” I shook my head. “What’s up?”

“Well, I need to know if you have a dad first.”

“Why?”

“Because then I’ll know if you can help me.”

“Yes. I had a dad.” I smiled down at him.

“Had?” His eyes narrowed. “Did he leave you?”

“No. He was in a car accident.”

“Ah.” He stroked an imaginary beard. “I think you might be able to help me.” He motioned between us. “Man to man?”

“Sure, kiddo, what’s up?” I looked up to check on the kids playing before looking back at him.

“Well, here’s the thing.” He twisted his lips. “I really want a dad like Frankie, Dillon, Charlie, Tyler, and Peter have.”

“What’s wrong with your dad?”

He shrugged. “I don’t have one.”