Page 98 of Rum & Coke
“Where’s the teacher?” he asked and looked at Valentina who was dusting the fireplace mantel.
“Ms. Tess—”
“I sent her away,” I interjected.
“Why would you do that?” Sebastian asked.
“Because she doesn’t know how to teach my son.”
“She’s qualified,” he replied.
“No, she isn’t.” I sighed. “He has special needs—a different way of learning—a different way of communicating.”
“When does school end?”
“It doesn’t.”
“What do you mean it doesn’t?”
“The school year will end in a month, but he will start an extended school year a week later.”
“Why?”
“Because he can’t take a break. He needs continued education and therapy, at least at this age.”
“What’s wrong with him?”
“Nothing’s wrong with him,” I spat.
“Something’s wrong with him if he needs therapy.”
“Youneed therapy,” I countered.
Sebastian chuckled and moved to where I stood in front of the couch. He tried to cup my cheek, but I hit his hand away. “I have to admit, Tessa, I really like this feisty side of you.”
“Fuck. You,” I hissed.
“You will. Tonight. But first, I need you in my office.”
“Why?”
“Get your ass up to my office, or I will carry you.”
We stared at each other until Valentina spoke, “It’s okay, Ms. Tessa. I can watch Colton. What will he eat for lunch?”
“Grilled cheese,” I answered, not looking away from Sebastian.
“I make for him,” she stated.
“Now,” Sebastian ordered and pointed toward the stairs.
I sighed and rolled my eyes before I started to walk. Then I stopped and turned around. “I don’t even know where your office is.”
“You didn’t have a hard time finding it last night.”
I didn’t respond. Instead, I turned around and went up the curved staircase and down the hall to the door that would forever haunt me.
“Go on,” Sebastian said from behind me.
