Page 6 of Hard Rock Love

“The course is through an adult education program,” he said. “I’m taking it as an English credit, but not for college.” He lifted his eyes to meet mine. “It’s for my high school diploma.”

I blinked as I processed what he was saying.

“I failed English in high school,” he continued, now less hesitant as I sat quietly listening. “So I never graduated. I’d just joined Cherry Lips and we were really trying to take off so I was spending all my time and attention on the band, and I just… never went back.”

I nodded slowly, trying not to show my surprise. Seth was a high school drop out?

“You can’t tell anyone,” he said desperately. “The only one who knows I didn’t graduate is Julian and he doesn’t know I’m taking this class. I’ve been telling the others I have massage therapy appointments during class time.”

“Why can’t you tell anyone?” I asked. “What’s wrong with your friends knowing?”

He went slightly green.

“You know how obsessed everyone is with the band,” Seth said. “It’s the only thing we care about. We committed ourselves one hundred percent to it.”

“You’re worried they might start doubting your dedication to the band.”

“I love Cherry Lips,” Seth insisted. “I’m just as committed as they are. But the band can’t be my entire life. Maybe Cerise and Liam think it should be, but…” Seth shrugged. “I’ve always regretted not getting my education. What happens if something ever happens to the band? I’m a high school drop out. Where does that leave me?”

I could understand Seth’s point of view. My education was important to me. I could sympathize with wanting to have that piece of paper, even as just a symbol.

“But it doesn’t matter, anyway,” Seth muttered, leaning back in his chair heavily.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“I’m just not cut out for this shit,” he said bluntly. “I can barely understand what’s going on in class. I only just passed my first assignment by one point. Math and science I get. I was good at that. But this English stuff?” He shook his head. “No way.”

My heart went out to Seth. I’d never really struggled with my studies, but college was harder than high school and I had to work more than I ever had. I could imagine how difficult it was to go back to class after being away from school for years.

Seth ran a hand through the hair at the back of his head, looking dejected.

“I’m going to fail again,” he mourned.

“No, you’re not,” I said.

“How do you know?” he asked.

“Because I’m going to help you.”

“You’re going to what now?” he asked.

“Help you,” I repeated. I didn’t know what the hell I was saying. I hadn’t planned on saying it. But as I spoke the words, the more right they felt. “My major is English. I love Harry Potter. I’ve read the books a dozen times.” I sat up straight in my seat and nodded decisively. “I’m going to be your tutor.”

Seth stared at me in disbelief.

“What?” I asked defensively. “You think I can’t be a good tutor?”

“That’s not it,” he said. “I’m just amazed. And surprised. Why would you do this for me?”

“Because you’re my friend,” I said.

It didn’t have anything to do with his brilliant green eyes and a smile that made my heart pound. Of course not.

Seth cocked his head at me.

“You’re a really good person, Abby,” he said.

“Maybe I just want an excuse to talk about Harry Potter to someone who will actually listen,” I said. “Everly is tired of hearing all my theories and observations and rants.”