Chapter 9

“Your parents are great. You’re lucky, real

lucky.” A shadow fell across Parker’s face, but Mason didn’t think

he ought to intrude.

The two remained quiet for a few moments,

until Parker said, “Come on, otherwise we’ll be late.”

Mason had forgotten all about school. As they

jogged across the parking lot, Mason wondered again why Parker had

picked him up, it was so…romantic.

* * * *

Mason stared out of the window. His mind had

long since stopped paying attention to the teacher, who was droning

on about a calculus problem that Mason had solved minutes earlier.

The weather had decided that it was about time it reminded people

that it was the fall and this was the Pacific North West. In short,

it was raining like a cow pissing on a flat rock. Mason knew he

would have to abandon his usual practice of eating his lunch

outdoors. He’d have to brave the offerings that the school lunch

room provided.

Mason had just loaded his tray and was making