I don’t makehim elaborate and define anything. Instead, I say, “That must make it extra hard. I’m so sorry, kiddo. Remember that Bryce is a special kind of prick. Most men you come across in your life won’t be like that.”
He sniffs again and nods. “I know.”
I smile at the constant reminder of how smart he is. His understanding that most people aren’t like this Bryce kid gives me hope for the future. Those two simple words reassure me that Braeden will be okay, at least when it comes to friendships. That those assholes haven’t completely ruined him.
“How about we order delivery for dinner tonight? Anything you want.”
He rubs his eyes with the heels of his hands before he looks at me again. “Pizza?”
“We can definitely have pizza. I know a great joint that delivers. What do you like on it?”
“Uhm, pineapple, anchovies, and spinach.”
Before I vomit a little in my mouth, he smirks and shrugs. “Kidding. I like meat lovers.”
“Now,that’smy kind of pizza.”
After I let out a quiet sigh of relief that he’s okay, I stand from the bed and ruffle his hair. It’s starting to grow out and showing it has waves.
“Dork,” I say, winking.
He smiles shyly in response.
I’m so fucking relieved that he’s feeling better. Now, to make those boys learn that they messed with the wrong kid… or the wrong kid’s guardian. Feeling better or not, those boys will learn a valuable life lesson.
“I’ll let you know when dinner’s here.”
He says nothing as he grabs his phone and starts scrolling.
“One point goes to Cal,” I whisper after I close his door behind me. I pump my fist and give myself a mental pat on the back. And I didn’t even need to beg Seth for help. Look at me fucking go!
Chapter 24
Calvin
Thismorning,theprincipalcalled me back. Mr. Davies reached out to let me know that there have been no reports of bullying of Braeden. Those boys were careful not to do it on school property. But the fact that they bided their time and built trust with Braeden shows a high level of conniving and cruelty. They need to be taught a hard lesson, and I’m the person who’s going to dish it out.
It’s around 3:30 in the afternoon when I park my car in front of the house, a few blocks away from the bus stop. This is the house Braeden pointed out earlier when I asked him to show me where Bryce lives.
I get out, put on my shades, open the trunk, and pull out the toy gun. Then I lean against my car to wait for them to get off the bus after school, which should be any moment now.
Braeden is at home, waiting for me, and once I wrap this up, I have to take him to his first therapy session.
I don’t have to wait long. Soon, five boys head my way, laughing, fake punching, and being all around obnoxious. God, was I like that as a teen? Most likely. I bet Seth wasn’t. I’m sure he was a polite kid, kind, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent, just like he is today.
I watch them head my way, but they don’t notice me yet, oblivious of what’s about to befall them.
As soon as they step onto Bryce’s property, I call out. “Hey, boys.”
They stop to look at me, but say nothing.
“Are your parents home?” I ask.
A boy who is tall and broad with thick dark brown hair juts his chin at me like an asshole. “No, what’s it to you?”
This must be Bryce. I can see why Braeden was initially attracted to him. He looks like one of those football stars. It also makes sense why Braeden was so tentative in getting to know them at first. I’m sure he’ll find someone who’ll love him, but his shyness and introversion will keep most people away.
“Good,” I reply. I don’t want any parents interfering with my plans. “Got cameras around the house?” The boys look at each other questioningly before narrowing their eyes at me. Itisa suspicious question. “I ask because, if you do, I wonder if they caught what you all did to Braeden?”
