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.