Something Like Spring (Something Like, #4)

by Jay Bell

“So what’s the real reason you didn’t want a ride this morning?” Jason hesitated. “I noticed Peter walking and figured if you didn’t give him a ride, you probably wouldn’t give me one either.” “Peter.” Caesar said the name as if it exhausted him. “That kid is disturbed. No one his age should be so bitter.” He shook his head, adding, “Not that I don’t get it. I mean I don’t, not entirely, but I know it can’t be easy.” “What?” Jason asked. Caesar locked eyes with him. “Trying to find the right family. One good enough for you. That’s gotta be rough. But Peter hasn’t gotten any better since he first arrived.” He returned his attention to the road. “In fact, I’d say he’s gotten worse.” “He’ll grow out of it,” Jason said. “Eventually you get used to everyone having a family when you don’t. Or getting kicked out of a home for things other kids only get grounded for.” “Yeah, but he’s got a family now.” Caesar frowned. “You know what? It doesn’t matter. I’ll admit I’m a dick and I never give Peter a ride, but the kid depresses me.” “It’s not like he chose to lose his parents,” Jason said, feeling defensive. “That’s not what I mean. You can always talk to me about being on your own or whatever. It’s Peter’s attitude that gets me down. You seem cool though, like you’ve got it all figured out.” “Oh, totally,” Jason said, repressing a smile. “The world is my oyster. The merest gesture gets me what I want. I wink and the ladies fall at my feet!” Caesar grinned. “You’ll have to teach me ...