Episode 931: We Want The Same Thing

With a frown, Abby gave the tassel one last swing before she removed the cap that matched the maroon gown Caroline wore.

“Thanks, Abs,” Caroline said. “After I grab my diploma, the cap is all yours, okay?” Technically she was supposed to return the cap to the school, but would they really miss one? And should people share hats anyway? And most importantly, it would make Abby happy.

Abby very much looked happy as Sam ushered her off to their seats where their parents waited.

Though quite far from where Caroline stood, even from a distance it was obvious they were still fuming at one another. Caroline turned away, determined to put them out of her mind and enjoy graduation.

When Caroline turned, she turned right smack into Jesse. “Oh, I’m sorry,” she said. “I was distracted and in a hurry, I didn’t realize anyone was behind me.”

“It’s okay,” Jesse said. “I’ll live.”

Caroline grinned, reminded of just how true that statement was. “Yeah, you will live.”

“So, do you want to go grab our seats or are you waiting up here to see Charlie first?”

She shook her head. “Charlie can’t come. Our ceremonies are practically at the same time. You’d think the schools would check with each other.”

“I’m sorry, I guess you probably wanted him here.”

“We’re meeting up late, at least there’s that, and videos and photos.”

Jesse nodded. “So, sit together?”

“Aren’t we supposed to be alphabetical?” Caroline asked as they made their way down the center aisle of the auditorium.

“What are they going to do?” He asked. “Send us to detention on our last day here ever?”

“Good point,” she agreed and they took two seats together.

“I have something to ask you,” he said playing around with the tassel on his cap not unlike Abby had done.

Butterflies filled Caroline. She wasn’t sure what he would say next and how she should feel about it. She did love Charlie. Truly.

“My dad’s landscaping business is hiring for the summer. It’s kind of cool that I’m healthy enough now to work with my dad. Plus, it’ll be good to make some money.”

“Sounds like a good plan for your summer,” Caroline said, though the conversation confused her, he hadn’t actually asked her anything.

“So,” he continued, “besides me, my dad has a couple other jobs to fill. It’s sweaty work, but it pays decent and unlike most jobs you get to be outside everyday and I figured maybe you could use the money, too. Would you be interested in working with me? Or would that be too weird for Charlie?”

“Charlie knows we’re just friends.”

“So you’ll work with me?”

Charlie knew they were just friends. It was Caroline who felt conflicted. As much as spending the summer outside and earning some money appealed to her, Caroline wasn’t convinced it was a good idea.

“Abby’s doing a day camp a couple times a week, but otherwise she’ll mostly be with me, so I’m not sure a job is doable.” It was mostly the truth, a legit excuse, though maybe Samantha would help with Abby, maybe.

“I could talk to my dad,” Jesse offered. “Him and my mom had to juggle us kids and jobs, he’ll understand. I bet he’d be okay with Abby tagging along. She’s a good kid, she’d stay away from dangerous tools and equipment and stuff. If I can get my dad to be fine with it, will you say yes? Will you spend the summer with me? Working with me, I mean.”

Episode 932: It's Too Late