Chapter 59

Asher

The bed situation needs some work. Sawyer isn't allowed in the middle because he's too big, and the bedding moves with him when he moves. I end up in the middle sometimes, but Reece gets the middle spot most nights. It's just easier that way.

Now, he's wrapped up in Sawyer's arms, his face buried inside his chest.

I reach behind me to the nightstand for my phone, sleep evading me these last few nights. 2:30 a.m. It's not likely I'll go back to sleep.

Reece stirs. I pull him into my arms as he turns to me, mumbling something I can't make out. "Shh, it's still early. Go back to sleep," I whisper. He settles down, laying his head on my chest.

Sawyer moves in his sleep, molding his body around Reece's back and slipping his arms around his waist. Reece snuggles closer to me, and I turn fully to him, touching my fingers to his hair, pushing some strands away from his eyes. He's worth it. He's worth all this shit with the school district.

Everyone has their opinion and will exercise their right to judge us whether we like it or not. Still, when I go into town for some supplies later in the morning, after Sawyer and Reece have left for work, I can't help but feel the judgment. Maybe the stares from folks around town aren't for me, but I feel them, nonetheless.

Inside the General Store, I avoid Deliah because she'll just act like she was doing me a favor the whole time, trying to keep me on the straight path or whatever. I grab some vegetables, butter and chicken wings, and manage to escape without anyone asking any questions.

Next, I stop at Dotty's for a few apple pies.

"You know how this town is, Asher," Dotty says. "Split down the middle when it comes to these things. And if you ask me, they're just using you as an example for the election campaign. You know how it is."

"Yeah, I know."

"I'm glad you stood your ground, though. I don't see what the problem is if it's not hurtin' anyone. I'm sure it's all gonna work out just fine. You'll be back in time for the championships, and we'll all celebrate at Al's Diner like always. You stay positive, alright, honey?"

"Thanks, Dotty. I think I really needed to hear that."

"Well, I'm always here if you need to talk. All of you boys, okay?"

"Okay."

"Now, go and enjoy those apple pies. I added a few slices of chocolate caramel cake for you and that pretty Reece Carter."

I almost stop at the furniture store to order a new bed, but maybe I need to lay low for now. At least until the end of the month. I'm not impressed by the excitement of Halloween all through town as I drive back home. Sawyer and I don't usually participate much in the town's festivities, but we love the atmosphere. Now, I just want the month to be over so I can get on with my life.

Sam and the team play against Herbert Hoover High the day before my hearing outcome is announced and they win in a 42-6 blowout victory. They're in the playoffs. I almost lose my mind because I can't even congratulate them.

***

I arrive at school on the last day of October with the taste of Reece and Sawyer in my mouth and their worry weighing heavily on me. The school district has reached an outcome. Like a criminal, I stand in the same boardroom as before, awaiting my fate.

Principal Watson and Susan are present. Sally Varga, the school district's administrator and her boss, Morris Beckhart, are also present.

Greetings are stilted. Principal Watson won't look at me. My heart sinks just a little bit.

"Mr. Cameron," Morris starts. "We've reached a decision regarding a breach of section seven of Linksfield High School's Code of Conduct. By your admission, you are currently in a legal marriage and have willingly entered into a second relationship with a third party. We've taken into account your meritorious achievements at Linksfield, and we commend you for your contribution, particularly with the football team. After taking into account the concerns of community members, the values expected to be upheld by all staff members and students alike at Linksfield High School, and the values expected to be upheld by the school district, we have come to a decision that you are in violation of the morality code stipulated in section seven of the Code of Conduct. The outcome of this matter is termination of employment with immediate effect. Linksfield High School thanks you for your service."

I give them nothing. Not even a twitch of a muscle. My face remains a stone mask but inside, everything explodes.

"You have the right to appeal this decision." Morris slides an envelope across the table. "The process for an appeal is detailed in here, and you will receive electronic copies of everything shortly. Do you have any questions, Mr. Cameron?"

"I do not." I won't give anyone here the satisfaction of begging for anything.

"Alright. Please ensure that all school-owned property is handed over to Principal Watson or his administrator immediately."

Outside, Susan shakes her head and tells me she's so sorry. Principal Watson is beside himself. "I gave recommendations to let you stay, Cameron. I hope you know that."

"Thank you."

"You could've just denied everything, you know."

I glance over at him. "No, I couldn't." He doesn't understand that this is about not letting anyone control my life. I told the truth because that's what it was: the truth.

He sighs. "Do the appeal, Cameron. Do the appeal. I'm begging you."