Page 144 of The Pact
Out of the corner of my eye, I start to see kids filter out of the school doors.
“There’s mine.” I nod toward the kids. “I’ll see you in the gym bright and early tomorrow,” I wave as I walk away.
“Later, Saint,” Ray Owens, one of our linebackers, says, as his son runs up and wraps his arms around my buddy’s legs.
I watch Remy come toward me. His backpack is hanging off one shoulder, a manila envelope clutched in his hand, and a careful smile on his face.
I crouch down right here on the sidewalk, arms open for a hug.
“Well, how does it feel to be going into second grade?” I ask him.
He wraps his little arms around my shoulders, burying his face into my neck. I can feel his smile against my skin, so I know he’s okay.
When he pulls back, he’s smiling wide.
“Here.” He hands me the envelope.
I open the clasp and pull out his final report card. I scan through the subjects, and he’s gotten all A’s and one B.
“This is amazing, Rem,” I say, smiling at him.
“Thank you,” he says quietly.
I get to the bottom and read the teacher’s comments, and my throat goes tight as I read.
Remy has shown tremendous resilience this year. He’s kind, hardworking, and a wonderful and helpful friend to his classmates. He’s also been a great helper for me. I hope he has a great summer. - Mrs. M.
Remy has always been a friendly little guy, so I’m not surprised by her comments, but after the past six months he’s had, knowing he’s adjusting to school makes me happy.
I know he’s made friends at school, friends from hockey, and a new group from his baseball team. He’s also become buddies with a lot of my teammates’ kids.
He must see something on my face that worries him, because he puts a hand on my shoulder. “It’s okay?”
“Okay?”
His shoulders lift.
I pull him into my arms so fast he makes a surprised sound.
“Buddy, this is incredible.”
He hugs me back, his little hands gripping the back of my shirt.
“You’re not just smart,” I say against his hair. “You’re tough. You worked so hard. You’re a good friend and helper to your teacher. I’m so very proud of you.”
He doesn’t say anything, but I feel the way he melts into me.
I stand and brush a hand over his hair. “I think this deserves ice cream.”
He nods. “I think so too.”
“Okay, let’s go celebrate!”
Thirty minutes later, we pull into the drive just as Presley and Rhyan are getting out of the car.
When Rhyan sees us, she starts jumping up and down, waving.
“Hey!” Presley looks over and smiles when we get out of my truck.
