Page 25 of Reluctant Chemistry

“You can’t just refuse without knowing the details.”

“Watch me. No.”

“Look, we’re in a tight spot here. There are at least twenty kids in year thirteen chemistry and almost double that number in year twelve. Four days a week until Easter. That’s all we ask.”

“I’m taking a break from teaching.” Luka grabbed his jacket off the hook beside the door and shrugged it on. “In fact, I plan to make that break permanent.”

“But you only taught for two years.”

“Yep. It’s not really my thing, and right now, all I want to do is pass my chopper license.”

“But you’re an excellent teacher.”

His brows drew together. “What? Who told you that?”

“Carole called the principal at your last school.” Brad sat at his desk and opened the box of donuts. He offered it to Luka, who declined. “Will you at least consider it?”

Luka watched Brad bite into a donut and sighed. He’d taught for a couple of years after completing his science degree but soon realized dealing with a bunch of hormonal teenagers wasn’t how he wanted to spend his days. Apart from that, the routine of it didn’t suit him. He was a night owl who loved the outdoors. In hindsight, Luka had no idea why he’d chosen the teaching route in the first place.

“Do us this one favor, and we might be able to get you some extra hours in the chopper,” Brad continued.

“Come on. Play fair. You can’t dangle that juicy carrot in front of my nose and expect me not to sniff at it.”

“Course I can. We’re desperate—you’re available. And it’s only one term.”

“Yeah, but it’s four days a week. I’m busy enough as it is.” He sighed. “Anyway, I’m heading home for a few days, so I’ll pretend to think about it, but I’m not making any promises.”

“Good man.”

“See you Wednesday.” Luka grabbed a donut and took a huge bite. “Thanks. Good donut.”

Outside, Luka swore under his breath as he pushed the button on his key fob. More hours in the chopper meant he’d gain his license sooner. But the teaching trade-off?

No. Just no.

* * *

“What are you going to do about the board, Dad?” CeCe asked as she and her parents finished their evening meal. Her father had been on the Tulloch Point High Board of Trustees for several years, but he’d planned to retire at the end of last year when CeCe graduated and his term ended.

Then Anna died.

“They want to co-op me for another year. What do you think?”

CeCe shrugged. “Go for it. But you’re asking for my opinion, Dad.” She shot an amused smile at her mother, who offered one in return. “Are you sure you’re feeling all right?”

“Very funny. I just thought, with you going back to school, it wouldn’t hurt to do another year.”

“I don’t mind, honestly.”

“Oh, and Carole Jones texted this morning. They might have found a new chemistry teacher for the first term,” Frank said.

“Great.” CeCe sipped her water. “Anyone we know?”

“Well, you know him,” he replied. “It’s that guy who helped you when you sprained your ankle.”

The saliva immediately dried in her mouth as his words tumbled across her mind. She set down her knife and fork. “Who do you mean? The doctor?”

“No, the guy who gave you a ride into town. That Search and Rescue guy.”

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