The buzzer rang incessantly while Charlie was in the kitchen opening a second bottle of pinot grigio. He peeked his head into the living room and saw Hunter on the couch, headphones on, working on a charcoal drawing for class. Charlie sighed and went to the intercom.

"Hello?" Charlie asked.

"Mr. Parker, it's me. Alex."

Charlie stiffened. "Tyler isn't home."

"I'm not looking for Tyler, I came to see you. I need to talk to you."

"That's not such a good idea," Charlie said. "I'm already suspended for something I didn't do. The last thing is I need is adding fraternization with one of my students in my home."

"It's really important, Mr. Parker."

"It's always important at this age," Charlie exclaimed. "You kids, you just go for what you think you want before you even weigh the options. You do whatever, say whatever, and don't give a fuck about the consequences."

"Can you please buzz me up, Mr. Parker? It's freezing out here."

"Go home Alex," Charlie said, taking his hand off the "talk" button.

"You don't understand! It's not about... Robbie's dad, when he found out? He beat Robbie. Hurt him really bad. I'm scared for him sr."

Alex listened to the silence. Did Mr. Parker just turn his back on him?

"I know you're not allowed in school or talk to any students, but do you see how important this is? I need your help. Robbie needs your help. And I don't know what to do." Alex waited a few minutes longer then began to walk away.

Just then, the door buzzer came on. Alex went in.

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Just joining us? Catch up here:

Volume 1 -
Week One, Week Two, Week Three, Week Four, Week Five

Volume 2 -
Week One, Week Two, Week Three, Week Four, Week Five

Volume 3 -
Week One, Week Two, Week Three, Week Four, Week Five

Volume 4 -
Week One, Week Two, Week Three, Week Four, Week Five

Volume 5 -
Week One, Week Two, Week Three, Week Four, Week Five


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