J.M. Snyder

At 16, Stacy Evans dropped out of high school in the hopes of moving on with his life. But four years later, he's stuck in an abusive relationship with Lamar, a "friend with benefits," and works long hours at a dead-end job just to get by.<br><br>Then his mother enrolls him in a program to earn his GED. There he meets Darian, a woodshop teacher who is everything Stacy's friends are not -- smart, successful ... and who seems to take a personal interest in helping Stacy turn his life around. The two develop a rapport that keeps Stacy after school just to spend extra time with him. In intimate moments alone, they grow closer than just student and teacher.<br><br>On the right track for once, Stacy has a chance to choose between his troublesome past and a promising future with Darian. But his jealous friends won't let him go so easily.

Stepping Up to the Plate

“Good question.” At Darian’s expectant smile, Stacy shrugged. “I was sixteen. Left home, dropped out of school. Where the hell else was I supposed to go?”


Stacy admitted, “I’ve got plans though. Nothing definite, for sure, but I’m doing pretty good this time around, so far. When I graduate, or whatever? I’m moving on. Gotta save up some money first.” Twisting his mouth into a bitter grimace, he added, “Gotta find a job first, then save up the money. Or I’ll be out on my ass in the street at the end of this month.”


Darian laughed. “He wouldn’t kick you out.” Stacy didn’t reply, and Darian’s grin slipped away. “You’re joking. He wouldn’t.”


Chapter 71