Page 58 of Hollow Heart

“Grab whatever you want, it’s on the house,” Felix states as he hands a bowl to Bobby.

I watch as my son takes it carefully.

“Thanks,” he says softly, heading toward the dispensers.

I’m about to protest when Felix whacks me in the stomach with a bowl, as well.

“You too. Maybe somefro-yowill change your fucking attitude, too.”

“Aw, crap!”Bobby snaps as we round the corner to our street.

“What’s wrong?” I ask, panic flaring once more.

Bobby closes his eyes, pursing his lips.

“I forgot, I have Study Group tonight! In, like, thirty minutes.”

“What?” I ask, feeling whiplash again. “Since when did you go to study group?”

“Since the beginning of the semester... I tutor three gu— students.”

Felix pulls up to our driveway, but he doesn’t turn the car off.

“Where at?” Felix asks, completely unbothered by this announcement.

“Usually, we meet up at Starbucks or Percolators.”

“How long is this study group?” I ask.

Bobby bites his lip. “Uh... three hours, usually. Give or take a break for food.”

“It’s a?—”

I’m caught between grounding him indoors for the night and forbidding him from hanging out, but a part of me also knows that Bobby is more than punctual, and loyal when it comes to academics.

“You’ll be home by seven,” I reply sternly, and Bobby sighs.

“You need a ride?” Felix asks, but Bobby shakes his head.

“My, uh... friend... Brendan usually picks me up. He just texted me that he’s almost here, so...”

Brendan... There’s that name again.

I need to make a point to meet this kid. This is the second time Bobby’s mentioned him, so they must be somewhat close.

Bobby’s eyes meet mine, pleading with me not to make a big deal.

Felix turns the car off.

“Cool. Maybe you and I can jam out a bit while we wait for the car? Catch up on some rehearsal time?” Felix suggests, just as a little red Volkswagen shows up. Bobby immediately jumps out, looking at me.

“I promise I’ll be back before dinner,” he says, and I feel more than torn.

But all I can do is nod.

“Be safe and stay out of trouble.” I sigh.

Bobby smiles a half-smile, but it isn’t genuine. “Scout’s honor.”

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