Page 103 of Mr. B

Cassandra cocked her head. “You think it’s cool? You’re not freaking out because…”

“My mom and my principal are…” She took a breath. “No. I’ve accepted it. You’re happy. He makes you happy. How can I have a problem with that?”

Cassandra went to Bailey and hugged her. “When did you get so…mature?”

“I’m almost eighteen, Mom.”

Cassandra stepped back and looked at her. “Is this you accepting things because you’re going to tell me about some boy, and…”

“No. There’s no boy. Unless you’d be okay with me going after Luke.”

Cassandra pointed at her. “No. He’s too old.”

“I know.” Bailey laughed. “But, man.”

“You will meet the right guy at the right time.” She kissed Bailey on the forehead. “Don’t be in a rush.”

“I’m holding out for a college guy next year.”

“Okay.” She picked up her purse again and finished her coffee. “I really need to go.”

“Is Mr. B your right guy at the right time?”

“I think he is.”

“Do you wish you had stayed with him instead of Dad?”

“Of course not. I wouldn’t have you.”

“Okay, go pick up your dream man. And don’t worry, I won’t spill the beans about you and the principal.”

“Just put it in that box with all the other secrets we’ve asked you to keep.”

Bailey smiled. “You owe me big time.”

“Hmm. How about I pay you off with a pretty new guitar?”

“Done!”

Cassandra left the house, and when she got into the car, she texted Wes.

Sorry, I’m on my way.

No worries, I just got up.

When she pulled up to the house, Wes came out using a cane instead of his crutches. He crossed the yard, then got into the car.

“Look at you. Where did you get the cane?”

“From the last time I wrecked my knee.”

“It’s very… distinguished.”

“Kind of like Mr. Peanut?”

“Nothing like Mr. Peanut.” She leaned over and kissed him. “I don’t suppose we could…”

“No.”