Annabeth smiled. “I’m not a fan of confrontation.”
“Well, you handled it like a pro. I’m sorry Kevin isn’t up for a solo—” Mrs. Schulze broke off, crossing her arms over her chest. “Actually, I’m not. I’m not the least bit torn up about it.”
Annabeth allowed herself a small grin. “It sounds like you have plenty of kids to audition. I’m sure you’ll pick the best for the parts.”
Mrs. Schulze nodded. “You go on home and get some rest. Don’t let this hiring nonsense get to you. Everyone at the school knows you’re the one for the job.”
“Thank you, that means a lot.” Annabeth shrugged. “Let’s hope the school board agrees.”
Mrs. Schulze paused in the doorway. “Cody does really well singing. Not one stutter. And he has a lovely voice. Just like his mama.”
Annabeth grinned after the retreating teacher. She was lucky to have such a supportive staff.
“Sorry.” Ken poked his head in. “Did I miss the meeting?”
“Yes.” She stood, putting away two of the student files she’d pulled earlier in the day.
“How did Winnie take it?” he asked, leaning against the door.
Annabeth rested her hip against the desk. “She wasn’t pleased.” Which was why he’d missed the meeting. No one wanted to get on Winnie’s bad side. But that was part of the job, following the protocol and enforcing the procedures in place—even if it meant an unhappy parent now and then. “But that’s the necessity of the grade contract. Mr. Glenn tried to accommodate Kevin but he didn’t do the extra credit.”
Ken nodded.
She went back to straightening her desk, more than ready to leave for the weekend. “Anything else we need to talk about?” she asked nonchalantly.
“I’m interviewing for the position next week,” he offered. “I know things could get awkward, but it’s business, after all.”
She looked at him, hoping she looked enthusiastic rather than nauseous. “Of course, Ken. I appreciate the heads-up. Good luck. I’m sure it will go well.” She wished she could mean it, she really did. But it was the right thing to say.
He cocked an eyebrow at her. “I’m not a big believer in luck, Annabeth. It’s all about working hard and fighting for what you want. And, to be frank, I want this position. But I hear I’m not the only one they’re interviewing.” He was watching her closely. “Besides you, it’s me and two others. One from San Antonio and one from Illinois, with years of experience from what I hear.” His laugh was forced. “Since that’s something neither of us have, looks like a tough race is ahead.”
Perfect. Just what she wanted to hear. Her phone rang.
“I’ll let you get that.” He pushed off the door frame. “Enjoy your weekend. Get some rest, you’re looking worn-out.”
“Night, Ken. You, too,” she said before answering the phone. “Annabeth Upton,” she snapped.
“Um... Hey, stranger,” came Josie Boone’s voice. “I was hoping to take you out to dinner tomorrow night. Sounds like you could use it.”
“God, yes.” Annabeth collapsed into her desk chair. “Just promise there will be wine.”
“Tough week?” Josie asked.
“You could say that.” She yawned. “I’m not sure I can get a sitter—”
“Bring him over to my dad’s. He and Lola can play checkers or make cookies,” Josie cut her off. “I just want to make sure you’re okay.”
“Why wouldn
’t I be?” She sighed, knowing she sounded defensive.
Josie laughed. “Well, you sound pretty wound up.”
“Sorry,” she groaned. “Guess I am.” She powered down her computer. “I’ll try to shake off the attitude before then, I promise. I’m picking up some fried chicken and watching a superhero movie with Cody tonight.”
“A superhero movie, huh? Will there be a shirtless scene?”
“If I’m very lucky.” She grinned. “Not all of us get to go home to a hunky husband.”