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Nodding slowly, I say, “Yeah…” and stand up. We’re not getting into that today.
I help Ethan and Harper figure out their throwing and catching so everyone wins, and just as I’m about to move on to some other kids, my phone buzzes in my pocket.
And my heart rate spikes.
I try my hardest to ignore it, scolding myself for even having my phone on me. I never carry my phone when I’m teaching.
But today, I slid it in my pocket, and it stayed there. Along with a sneaky little hope.
And as I pull it out quickly to glance at the screen, I regret everything. It’s a text from Mom.
Mom
What day will you be coming home for Christmas? I’m planning parties and need to RSVP to others, so need to know your schedule. I figure you’ll be home early that week since you won’t have any obligations?
Also, exciting news. I was speaking with the Dean at Browning the other day, at a charity event. He mentioned they are in the process of hiring a new science teacher. Something to consider, and we can talk about this further. Can’t wait to see you!
Ah, of course. The Christmas parties where everyone dresses up in suits and gowns, complete with a stick up the ass. And yeah, obviously I wouldn’t have any obligations, as I am simply a gym teacher with a silly hobby. Naturally, I can just jump whenever they say so.
And fuck this never-ending crusade to get me to teach at Browning. It’s bad enough I had to go to that stuck up private school, like fucking hell I will ever teach there. And why my parents can’t even take a moment to actually learn what it is I do is beyond me. For being brilliant, high-profile doctors, they’re pretty fucking ignorant. I’m an elementary Phys. Ed. teacher and went through specialized training to be the best I can be at this job that I love. I can’t just suddenly move on to teach high school science.
With a sigh, I slide my phone back in my pocket, the feeling of disappointment taking over.
But I make it through the rest of the morning, doing exactly what I told Harper to do, and shake it off. I still have a couple weeks before I need to go home for Christmas and worry about all of that shit.
And not having any texts from someone else is nothing new.
As soon as I open the gym door to head to the staff room for lunch, I come face to face with Mary. Or Megan. Mary-Megan…
“Hey Luca,” she purrs, pretending to look surprised to see me… outside of the gym.
“Hey… you.” I really should pay attention to what her name is.
She giggles, probably thinking it was a flirty hey you. “So, I was thinking.” She tilts her head and smiles. “I’m going to come watch your hockey game this week. And we should go for a drink after.”
I nod slowly, glancing down the hallway, looking for an out. “Uh, sure, yeah, we’re all probably going to go out after. You’re free to join.”
Annoyance flickers in her gaze, but she quickly schools her expression, widening her smile. “Sounds fun. But I think just you and I should go out at some point too and get to know each other better. This weekend?”
My head is shaking before she even finishes speaking, and her brows draw together.
“Uh, sorry,” I wince, “I’m just… I… I’m involved with someone.”
Her eyebrows shoot up, and mine do too. I am? Where’d that come from… am I?? Oh wow, I have so many questions for myself.
“Oh, ok.” She backs up a step with a forced smile.
“But I’ll see you at the game.” I smile at her, not wanting to be a complete dick. She’s just flirting and putting herself out there. And even though it’s quite forceful, she’s not doing anything wrong.
“Hm.” She nods. “Yeah. See you.” She gives me an awkward wave and leaves.
I have some serious baking to do tonight.
As I run through my recipe list in my head, I make my way to Dan’s room. I’m thankful to find him still here, and his kids gone to lunch.
I close the door behind me as I enter, leaning against it and letting out a big sigh.
He looks up from his desk and laughs. “Hey, man. What’s up?”
