Page 26 of Mr. B

“You’re a better man than me, brother.”

“I don’t think so.”

“Hmm. I’ll let you know when he’s off campus.”

“Thanks, Justin.”

Justin left, and Wes turned to Cassandra. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yes, sure.”

He cocked his head. “You’re still shaking.”

She held up a hand. “He…I don’t know, I...” She looked at him. “I could really use a hug.”

Chapter seven

“He’ll always be cute little Abe to me.”

Cassandra got to her feet, and Wes walked over to her. “I think I could manage a hug.” He hugged her, then stepped back.

Cassandra smiled. “Thank you.”

“I think it’s going to take more than a hug to get past this. Get your things. We’re getting out of here.”

“Together?”

“Yeah.”

“Did hell freeze over?”

He smiled. “Possibly. Just come on before I change my mind.”

“Where are we going?” She picked up her purse and a light jacket.

“What do you like on your pizza?”

She followed him out the door and into his office. “We’re going to Rocco’s?”

“Best pizza in town.”

“So I’ve heard.”

Wes shut off his computer. “You’ve lived here five years and have never been to Rocco’s?”

“I figured I wouldn’t be welcome.”

“My family is loyal, but they wouldn’t have refused to serve you.” He picked up his phone and put it in his pocket. “Let’s go.”

Polly looked surprised to see them leaving together. “Is that all resolved?”

“Yeah, my brother made sure Dennis left the grounds. Tomorrow, I’ll need the paperwork to send to the district office. He won’t be coming back to school.”

“Okay.” She looked at Cassandra. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.”

Wes glanced at her. “We’re both headed out of here.”