Chapter 25:

JD

Friday Morning during the meeting with the principal it was determined that he would come back on Monday and he would have his same schedule with one small change. Julie was older and not in any of the same classes. Instead of football workouts for first period he would now have a computer science class.

He was allowed to go to school events and he specifically asked about football.

Flashback:

JD "Can I go to the football games? You said school events are okay and they are school events…"

Principal "You may go to home games, if a parent goes with you to keep an eye on you."

JD "I'm not two…"

Principal "No son, you are not two and this is for your safety as well as other students. People have heard things and do not like that you are not locked up with the key thrown away. I have to keep you safe at school events just as much as others. What you are "accused" of doing is a big deal and while I am reminded by your lawyer that you have not been convicted the rest of this town has pretty much decided you are guilty and honestly we just don't know what they will do… just follow the rules and keep your nose clean. Maybe this will blow over… or maybe you and your parents might decide to relocate when you are allowed."

Joe McCoy: "Now listen here…"

Principal: "No Joe. Think about your boy's safety and just do what's right."

Lawyer: "And what about Miss Taylor? Is she coming back to school?"

Principal: "She has every right to… although, I think her parents are keeping her home for a while. She has pretty severe injuries."

Lawyer: "At these school events, can she attend?"

Principal: "Of course, she is a student here."

JD: "Can I talk to her?"

All three sets of eyes stare at JD.

Joe: "No"

Lawyer: "No"

Principal: "That's not a good idea. I advise you keep away from Miss Taylor… and Coach and Mrs. Taylor for that matter."

JD: *Sigh* "Okay. But I can go and watch the home games, including tonight? And I can start school Monday?"

Principal: "Yes"

End of Flashback

6:45 Friday Night.

JD and his Dad arrive to the game and find a spot directly on the 50 yard line to watch.

Joe: "Relax son, you have every right to be here."

JD swallows the lump in his throat.

JD: "Okay dad."

Just then JD notices a few rows down the three female Taylors are settling into a row with Mrs. Saracen.

Oh shit… He thinks.

Note: Drama is coming!

Comment?

Encouragement?