Page 8 of Easton Island

The boy shrugged. “Sometimes. I don’t think they like the Eastons.”

“Unfortunately, there are a few people on the island who aren’t fans of ours.”

Tristan thought about it for a minute. “Why not?”

“Because we have things they don’t. Some people think we have too much control over what happens on Easton Island.”

“Plus, the name. I’ve never known anyone who had an island named after them.” Tristan grew quiet for a second. “Do you have a lot of money?”

“It depends on what you consider a lot. Our family has more than some people but a lot less than others, say, for example, Elon Musk.”

“Because you would be the richest person on the planet.”

“What do you do when those older kids pick on you?”

“Ignore them. I have friends, so it’s okay.”

He nudged his son’s shoulder. “If it ever gets to the point where they’re threatening you or you get scared, go to the teacher or the office and tell them what’s going on.”

A boy and girl, fifteen-ish if Brett had to guess, tromped past his car.

“That’s them.”

Brett thought about jumping out and confronting them, but suspected it would only make matters worse for Tristan. Instead, he watched them turn and walk into the school, giving him a side profile view. “Remember what I said.”

“I will.” Tristan flung the door open and hopped out. “Thanks for the ride.”

“You’re welcome.” Brett’s eyes followed his son down the sidewalk and into the building. He wished more than anything that he could protect Tristan from the haters of the world. Unfortunately, they would thread their way through his life, even into adulthood, just because of who he was.

*****

“Brett should be here soon.” Morgan turned away from the café window, giving her grandmother her full attention. “How is Prissy?”

Elizabeth tipped her hand back and forth. “As you know, the geriatrician has met with her a couple of times. I make a point to check on her at least twice a week. She’s becoming more forgetful but trying to hide it.”

“Meaning she knows she’s on the decline and is afraid of losing her independence, so you might not be getting the full picture of what’s going on with her mental health.”

“Precisely. She’s planning to meet me at the art gallery after we eat. I thought if we met face to face, I could better gauge her current state.”

“I think this is a great idea.” Morgan changed the subject. “I wonder if Brett being late is a good sign or a bad sign.”

“It’s possible he confronted Tristan’s taunters and put them in their place.” Elizabeth sipped her coffee. “Kids can be cruel.”

“Even more so if you have a target on your back.”

“Being an Easton has its advantages, but also more than its share of disadvantages.”

“At least Tristan has friends. I hope the taunting doesn’t escalate,” Morgan said.

“Rest assured, if Brett catches wind, he will nip it in the bud.” Her grandmother stared out the window. “I see him coming now.”

The women watched as Brett pulled into the empty parking spot next to Morgan’s vehicle. He caught their eye on the way past the window, giving a quick wave as he strolled into the restaurant. “I hope I didn’t keep you waiting.”

“Not at all.” Elizabeth patted an empty chair. “Morgan and I were wondering how it went this morning.”

The server arrived and took their order.

Brett waited until she left. “Okay. Tristan and I chatted.”