Cole

by Autumn Gunn

  “You’re becoming quite the Mr. Popular.” Carissa looked up at me and gave me a discreet slap on the behind.

  “And more importantly I feel like I’m becoming Mr. Difference Maker.”

  “You sure are. I never could have imagined it, but I think your classes are going to make a noticeable difference in our kids test scores. We might win for the entire state. These kids are focused. And word’s still spreading. At this rate you might have to add more classes. Or even expand!”

  “Well, that side wall would be easy to knock out and there are SEALs separating all the time. Probably more than a few are looking for something to get passionate about. All it takes is a phone call.

  I’ve even had a lot of parents sign contracts beyond the first initial free month. And they paid in advance. I’ve got more than enough money now to get my own place and a set of wheels. I’m going to look at a couple places tomorrow with the real estate agent, after I check and see if there are any SEALs separating this month. See if they want to join me.”

  “Oooh. More SEALs in town? I’ve obviously got mine, but if you recruit some more the single ladies are going to love you. Not as much as me of course, but you know what I mean.”

  I paused. It was a figure of speech, but it didn’t go unnoticed. I didn’t say anything. I just maintained direct eye contact with Carissa.

  “Yes, I know what I just said, Cole. The feeling you’re giving me is amazing. And it’s not just amazing, it’s so much more. It’s protection. It’s friendship. It’s laughter. It’s passion. It’s everything I ever wanted. It’s love. I love you, Cole.”

  She was right. I felt the same. There was no doubt about it.

  “Carissa, you’re everything a man could hope for and more. I’m so lucky I found you. I never thought I’d be the guy to feel this way, but it’s not me, it’s you. You make me feel this way. I love you.”

  Carissa jumped into my arms and we kissed. I felt so good. So complete. And it was all because of her and this beautiful community.

  I heard clapping. It was growing louder. Then a few whistles. I spun around. Everyone was standing and staring. They were clapping for us.

  One young girl spoke up. “Miss Compton. Is Mr. Callahan your boyfriend?”

  We both looked at each other and laughed.

  “Sweetheart, he is. But he’s also a lot more than that. You’ll understand when you’re a little older.”

  “Miss Compton?”

  “Yes, honey?”

  “How much older?”

  “Well, that depends, but it’s going to be a few years. Maybe a few more than a few, but you’ll get there.”

  The girl closed one eye and looked towards they sky in thought.

  “Is there anyway to make that happen faster?”

  “You don’t want to do that. Enjoy your childhood. It’s a great time. You’ll get older faster than you think.”

  “I sure hope so.”

  “Why is that?”

  “Because I want a boyfriend too. One just like Mr. Callahan.”

  “You’ll have an amazing boyfriend, sweetie. I promise you will. Just not this one. This one is mine. Forever.”