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“Didn’t think I had a choice,” I replied, following him into his office as I cast a lingering stare back at the empty reception area. He chuckled, choosing to ignore my tone as he gestured to a chair.

“Jess, have a seat.” Principal Davis refused to meet my eyes as I entered and I took a moment to settle into my seat. “It’s come to my attention,” he began and my body froze as my mind frantically ran through every argument I could come up with to defend my relationship with Dom. “That you have enough credits to graduate.” It took a moment for my mind to catch up to his words and I know my mouth dropped open. He smiled narrowly. “Not what you thought I was going to say?”

I shook my head mutely.

“You can graduate a semester early. This semester,” he said, crossing his arms on his desk as he leaned forward. “Good news, yes?”

“I knew I had enough credits,” I replied carefully. “I intend to take additional classes next semester for college credit.”

“An admirable goal,” he said, nodding. ‘But one I’m afraid you won’t be doing here. You can always take some classes at the community college.”

“But, Principal,” I halted when he raised his hand, his stare gimlet.

“Don’t mistake this as an offer or a request. You will be graduating this semester.”

I glanced down, licking my lip as I tried to come up with a response. I heard him sigh.

“I don’t want to be the bad guy here, but there are rumors.” My head came up and he gave me a tight smile. “No accusations. Nothing brought to my attention that I would have to respond to. I’d like to keep it that way.” He raised his eyebrow as he added, “I trust you know what I’m referring too?” I nodded automatically, knowing exactly what he meant. “Then you understand why it would be best for you to graduate this semester.”

When I tried to respond, my throat seized and I had to clear it. “Of course.” My own smile was brittle as he relaxed. “I welcome the chance to graduate early.”

“I owe the Navarre family,” he added carefully. “They do a great many things for the school and I look the other way when necessary.” I blinked at him as his voice took on an ingratiating quality. “I was happy to hear that Hank Navarre was made sheriff. Dominic Navarre is a fine coach and Caleb is a great student.”

“What are you saying?”

“That I’m doing this as much for their protection as your own.”

“The only one you’re protecting is yourself, Principal Davis. I remember you letting Sheriff Hanley walk me out of the school without contacting my father. You were protecting yourself then too.” I stood up, forcing him to look up at me. “But I won’t make a fuss since in this instance we are both protecting the same person.” I leaned forward and he flinched back. “But do both of us a favor and quit pretending you give a damn about anyone but yourself and your position here.”

I marched out of the office, back straight, forcing back unwanted tears.

Jess, his voice soothed my turmoil and I felt my lips twitch into a smile.

I’m fine, I rushed to reassure him. Got good news! I attempted to keep my voice perky, but he didn’t buy it.

What happened, Jess?

I spoke with Principal Davis and I’m graduating early. This semester.

You wanted to take advanced classes next semester for college, he reminded me and I wished for just a second that he didn’t always pay such close attention when I spoke.

I can take them at the community college.

Yeah, but you wanted to graduate with Leah and Anna. Go to prom.

It’s better this way, I gritted out and if it was possible I felt him go still in my mind.

Did Principal Davis force you into this? He asked, his voice frighteningly calm.

He didn’t force me. He reminded me why it’s the best choice.

I’ll speak with him, Dom replied dangerously.

You know you say speak in the same tone other people say execute.

I’m on my way.

NO! You’re not. It’s done. I graduate this semester and no matter what you say or do to him, it’s not going to change my mind.

Jess, I heard his exasperation and his worry. You’ve given up too much.

I don’t feel like I’ve given up anything, I replied, swallowing hard as I admitted the truth. I’ve sacrificed nothing to be with you, but I’ve gained so much.

He appeared around the corner then, slowing as he approached me. His hand cupped my cheek, thumb rubbing my jaw as he stared at me. “I don’t deserve you,” he murmured.

“Definitely not,” I answered, my smile a little damp as I tilted my head back to meet his eyes. “But you can keep trying until you do.”