Chapter 6 [Twenty Minutes Later]
Clark hustled to his locker. Implication still swam through his mind. He wished his desperate act's ramifications would cease. During the morning's chores, he'd looked over the pitchfork. Despite Jonathan cleaning it off, it still bore the thug's and Lana's pain….
…much like a tuning fork, Guilt resonated from it into his mind…
He bowed his head. When will it stop? I've been trying to make it up to everyone. I wish I could change everything! He grabbed for his Math and Biology books.
"It seems the weight of the world is on your shoulders this morning, Mr. Kent." Reynolds stepped up to his side. "Are you all right, Mr. Kent?"
"Hi, Mr. Reynolds. Yeah I'm all right. Just have a lot to think about." Clark closed his locker door. "How are you?"
"I am very well, Mr. Kent. Thank you for asking." Reynolds rubbed his chin. "Did Miss Lang talk to you yesterday?"
Clark narrowed his eyes. "She talked with my parents and me last night." Does he know? I've been careful around him.
"So you can help St. Finnigan's? That would be much appreciated," Reynolds assumed. "I know Reverend Thomas will look forward to your contribution."
"Lana never mentioned St. Finnigan's. That's the church, right?" Clark puzzled over his meaning. His parents and he remained behind in farm chores. He wanted to get ahead in his studies as well. "Mom plants tulips there every spring. What can I do for them?"
Reynolds nodded. "I am terribly sorry, Mr. Kent. I presumed she had talked with you. Very well. Miss Lang and I spoke with one of St. Finnigan's parishioners yesterday at the Talon. I posted a flyer on the bulletin board by the front office. There are several worthy service opportunities on there. I believe the church wants someone to run a star gazing workshop."
Clark nodded. He'd expected Reynolds to talk about building a shed or planting a yard. "I'll have to talk to my Mom and Dad, Mr. Reynolds. Would that count for service credit?"
"Why yes! It would be a noble contribution to our community. It would give you an opportunity to share your talent. If your parents agree, we can speak about the arrangements." Reynolds glanced at his watch. "I have made you tardy, Mr. Kent." He pulled a small pad out of his blazer pocket. He scribbled across it and tore the top page off. "That should take care of the matter. Thank you for speaking with me, Mr. Kent."
Clark set the lock on the locker door. He looked at the pass. Then he peered down the hall toward where Reynolds had just gone.
Service just knocked on the door….