DISCLAIMER

The Unsaid is property of Universal Studios, and Higher Ground is owned by Fox Family. This is the last chapter in this story. However, after the semester ends, there will be more.

Peter was looking over some paperwork when the phone rang.

"Mt. Horizon High School. Peter Scarbrow speaking," he announced.

"Mr. Scarbrow?" a voice questioned.

"Dr. Hunter," Peter said in surprise.

"I just wanted to see how Kyle was faring," Dr. Hunter stated.

"He's doing quite well, actually. He opened up about his molestation a few days ago and has formed a bond with some other students who unfortunately survived the same thing," Peter responded.

"His schoolwork…is it still good?" Dr. Hunter queried.

"He's doing fine in school," Peter replied.

"And…his…social life? Is…that back on track? I mean---he wasn't---he didn't really have the heart to be around people for a while," Dr. Hunter recalled.

"He's getting along with the students real well. He's even expressed interest in one of the Cliffhanger girls," Peter answered with a soft chuckle.

"Is that allowed?" Dr. Hunter asked with some surprise.

"We do allow healthy, positive relationships as long as there's no inappropriate touching," Peter confirmed.

"I was just---" Dr. Hunter began.

"Curious?" Peter filled in.

"Yeah," laughed Dr. Hunter. Peter's mirth joined Dr. Hunter's.

"Will you keep me posted?" requested Dr. Hunter.

"I'll tell you whatever he gives me permission to," Peter answered.

"Fair enough," agreed Dr. Hunter. Both hung up. Peter went out to lodge. He watched as the students milled about.

"Hey, Mountain Man," a voice greeted. He smiled as Sophie came up beside him.

"Hey, Soph," Peter acknowledged.

"How's Kyle doing?" Sophie asked.

"Good. He's getting along great," Peter answered. They both watched as Kyle, Scott, Jess, Daisy, and Shelby sat at a table, talking and laughing. On the other side of the room, David, Katherine, Auggie, Juliette, and Ezra sat in three chairs talking softly. Peter and Sophie refocused their attention to the table where one half of the Cliffhanger group was talking to each other.

"Kyle seems to be happier," Sophie commented.

"Yeah, he does," Peter agreed.

"Will he be okay?" Sophie wondered.

"In time. You know that sexual abuse is hard for a kid to handle," Peter responded.

"Well, at least he's not alone," Sophie said softly.

"Yeah. There is that," Peter softly agreed. Both continued to stare. For one day at least, their students were happy.

THE END