Page 110 of Guarded Deputy
I love Andrea, but I do not want to talk about this.
“No,” I lie.
“Right.” She rolls her eyes.
“I don’t want to talk about it.” Tears build in my eyes.
“Okay.” She smiles softly. “I’m gonna go out to buy lunch. Do you want me to bring you anything?”
“I’m okay. Thanks, though.”
“A coffee?” Her brows lift as she grins.
“If you go to the coffee shop, yeah, but don’t go out of your way.”
“I’ve got you, boo. I’ll see you later.” She waves and walks out of my classroom, leaving me alone for a few more minutes before I have to pick up my class again.
I cross Nate in the hallway when I’m walking back with my kids. He barely acknowledges me, which is like a stab in my heart. Walker waves at him, but he doesn’t get much of a reaction either.
That’s not like him at all. He lives for his nephew.
I focus on my students and get back to teaching. Anything to make me forget the pressure in my chest.
When it’s lunch time, I eat in my room and thank Andrea when she brings me a Frap. I really have the best friends.
By the time the day ends, I’m ready to race home, shower, and put on sweats. If I could call in sick tomorrow, I would, but my conscience won’t let me. Besides, Nate will be at the high school tomorrow. Wednesday, on the other hand, is a different story since it’s the day he comes into my classroom.
“Mom!” Walker yells, running to Mrs. Lundsten.
I inch back when I see her, expecting Nate to pick him up.
“Hi, Ms. Andrews.”
“Hi.” I smile at her, remaining professional for the sake of my career.
“How’s Walker doing?”
“He’s great. He’s a smart kid.” I ruffle his hair playfully, and he laughs.
“I’m happy to hear that.” She shifts on her feet, looking at me. She leans in, catching me by surprise. “Be patient with him.” Her lips press together, and I have a feeling she’s no longer talking about Walker.
I nod, forcing a smile.
“Come on, Mom.” Walker pulls her arm.
“Bye,” she says.
“Bye.” I wave.
“Did Nate leave?” Andrea whispers.
“Your guess is as good as mine.” I shrug.
She frowns, but I shake my head. I don’t want my co-workers to start talking. It’s bad enough that we were the center of school gossip when word got out that we were dating. I don’t want the same thing to happen when things aren’t going well.
After all my kids leave, I go to my class to shut off the computer and put away some papers before leaving. I drive away feeling deflated. Not even my Frap made me feel better.
My phone buzzes, and I look down to see Nate’s name across the screen. I hesitate before opening the message to see what he said. I’d love anything that would give me some insight into what’s going on.