who doesn’t mingle much outside a small group of friends that he feels comfortable with. For once in my life, I want to be a wee bit bad.” “You know, most kids rebel against rules set by authority figures,” he remarks. “In your case, you’re rebelling against rules that you may have sort of enforced on yourself.” “That’s how it is for the uptight. Not everyone can be all sunshine and salt.” “Salt?” He arches an eyebrow quizzically. “Sometimes, when I close my eyes, I can almost imagine smelling the sea on you.”
“Did you attend classes here?” I ask Caleb. “You don’t seem like the ritzy all-boys private boarding school type.” “I didn’t,” he responds. “In fact, I hardly spent any time here. I remember setting foot here exactly once in my life. That one time, though? It changed my life.” Okay, now I’m curious. I’m half-expecting to be led to a secret room in the school. Imagine my surprise when he takes me to one of the nondescript waiting areas designated for visitors. “I spent the most nerve-wracking two and a half hours of my life here,” Caleb explains. “I know it seems shitty compared to where you brought me yesterday, but I promise there’s a story.” I take a seat on one of the plush couches. For generic school furniture, they’re actually quite comfortable. “It’s alright. I do have all day this time.”
first love |
The Alkaline Affair
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