“Then don’t,” Marin says, not allowing her to finish.
“A social worker contacted me. They wanted more information.” Karen doesn’t acknowledge Marin’s directive. “I told them what I knew. What I believed.”
“Which is?”
“That I don’t think her parents are at fault. But someone hurt Gia.” Karen lowers her voice. “They mentioned they would be contacting you very soon. They need to know who did this.”
“Then we agree,” Marin says, softening her tone so the interaction doesn’t become combative. “When I find out who did this, and I plan to, I will make sure and let you know. Until then, I appreciate you providing my daughter with the best education my money can pay for.”
A diverse student body fills the hallways. Pouring out of their classrooms, the ninth through twelfth graders search until they find their friends. They head en masse toward the lunchroom or outside to eat. With the weather permitting it year round, most students chose to eat outside on the tables under the trees. Gia’s last class before lunch is literature. It is with her favorite teacher, a man who has published a number of short stories in journals. As Marin nears the classroom, she spots Gia standing right outside of it, her hand enclosed in a young man’s. Taller than Gia by a number of inches, his blond hair is a contrast to Gia’s brown. A handsome face filled with confidence. He’s laughing at something Gia said. He moves down, brushing his lips over hers.
“Gia!” Marin’s yell reverberates through the hallway, stopping everyone. Students stare, first at Marin and then at Gia. The small student population guarantees everyone knows one another. An unexpected drama in the middle of another normal day catches their attention, and the normally boisterous students fall quiet. Aware of the potential scene, Marin plasters a smile on and lowers her voice. “Sweetheart, you forgot your textbook at home.”
“I did?” Gia drops the boy’s hand immediately. Stepping away, she begs him with her eyes to leave. “Which one?”
“Science.” Marin leans down to offer Gia a quick hug. Gia winces when Marin’s hand brushes her arm. “Gia, aren’t you going to introduce me to this young man?”
Disappointed there isn’t a show, students scatter. Gia glances around, making sure they no longer have an audience. “Uh, this is Adam.” She steps even farther away from him, as if the last few minutes never existed. Starting to walk away, she waits for Marin to follow her.
“Nice to meet you, Adam,” Marin says, ignoring Gia’s cue. Holding out her hand, she waits for him to shake it. Already knowing the answer, she asks, “Are you in the same grade as Gia?”
“No.” He glances at Gia, a silent message passing between the two of them. “I’m a senior.”
“And you’re new?” Marin prods, demanding answers.
“Yes. My family just moved here this year.” Sticking his hands into his pockets, he leans back against the lockers. “From Florida.”
“Well, welcome.” Marin smiles, a false one meant to disarm. “I’m thrilled Gia and you have met. Obviously, you’ve become closer than she let on.” Marin gives Gia an indulgent smile, assuring them she’s in on their secret but approves wholeheartedly. Gia, who has returned to Marin’s side, returns a weak one. “Tell me about yourself, Adam, since Gia has failed to.”
Adam raises his eyebrows, confused. “I play basketball.” A bell rings overhead, reminding the students lunch period has begun. Pointing to the clock, he says, “The bell is my cue. I should get going.”
“Of course.” Turning toward Gia, Marin offers a half-disapproving look. “I’m sorry Gia hasn’t introduced us earlier. But no worries, we can make up for it.” Leaning down, Marin whispers into her ear, “See you later, sweetheart.” Not waiting for any further discussion, Marin leaves them, walking briskly out of the school and back to her car.