“Shall we go?”
He hadn’t even wished Elijah a happy birthday, and I doubt he had complimented my mother. Ray met my eyes, and we exchanged a look, one where I told her this was a bad idea, and she told me I was probably right. She had good intentions, though, but my father was an odd man. I didn’t relish the thought of sitting with him all evening and hoped to make a swift exit as soon as we could. As we filed out of the door, I saw my father do a double-take at Bailey’s car before rearranging his features to disinterest as he marched to his deep blue trusty pickup truck. Ray & Elijah followed us, and we girls climbed into the back, the guys riding up front.
“God, your dad is hard work,” Ray grumbled as she clipped her seat belt, her face troubled.
“This is a nice idea, babe; I’m sorry he’s not overly social.” Elijah sighed, turning to gaze at Ray from the passenger seat.
“It’s okay. Hey, did you guys hear about Mr. Herbert?” Ray said, turning her gaze to mine.
I swallowed as my eyes met Bailey’s in the rearview mirror before I shrugged.
“No, what?”
“He’s been sacked and arrested for sleeping with a student.”
I inhaled sharply, and Bailey interrupted us, clearing his throat.
“Where am I going, Ray?”
She frowned, then said the name of the restaurant Bailey and I had our first date.
You’ve got to be kidding.
His eyes met mine, and I turned away, my cheeks burning with hurt and jealousy. Maybeshewouldn’t be there. My stomach twisted at the thought of seeing that damn waitress again.
“It’s so gorgeous, they have fairy lights, and it’s so romantic. The food is to die for, and the staff is attentive.” Ray gushed as I snorted, and Bailey’s eyes narrowed at me in the mirror.
“So I’ve heard.” I snapped sarcastically, my good mood evaporating rapidly.
Ray gave me an odd look as she continued talking, oblivious to my discomfort.
“Who do you think has been sleeping with Mr. Herbert? I mean, he’s hot, but he’s a teacher! You just wouldn’t, would you?” She shuddered as she gazed out of the window.
“It’s Elena,” I said, no longer caring who knew. “She’s pregnant with his child. Apparently, she’s in love with him.”
Bailey coughed, shaking his head as he wound down his window for air.
“What?” Ray gasped, her eyes wide as she stared at me in horror. “Elena is pregnant with Mr. Herbert’s baby?”
Bailey turned into the parking lot, turning off the engine as we waited for my parents to arrive.
“How do you know this?” Ray whispered hoarsely.
I looked at Bailey, who shrugged, and I turned to Ray.
“I heard them. Then caught them in the act. Then Elena told me it is his baby, and she’s in love with him.”
“What a fucking school,” Elijah swore under his breath, surprising us all. “The sooner you leave there, the better.”
“It’s hardly the school. He’s been arrested and fired. What more could they do?” I snapped.
Bailey opened the car door then, walking around to my side and opening the door, holding out his hand for me to take. I ignored it, climbing out awkwardly in my heels.
“Stop this,” he said darkly, gripping my wrist. “I know this isn’t ideal, but don’t lose your shit over history. Ancient fucking history.”
I folded my arms stubbornly as I threw a look at the restaurant, my stomach-churning.
“Was this beach you fucked her on?” I hissed as he leaned in close to me.
