Principal McNeil’s voice booms out of the loudspeaker. “Good afternoon, Riviere High School students. It’s been called to my attention from multiple sources that some of our students were targeted and violated with hateful speech and vandalism. I ask for anyone with information about the perpetrators to come forward. Hate in any form will not be tolerated at Riviere High School. Your teacher will pass out a copy of our school’s Hate Speech and Anti-Bullying Policy, which is also available on our website. Beginning today, it must be read and signed by every student. Teachers, please keep track and set aside a copy for any student absent today. These must be collected and turned in to the office before you leave this evening. Students of Riviere High School, this behavior is beneath you. I expect your actions will be exemplary and will reflect the spirit of friendship, hard work, and dedication proudly displayed by our Riviere Rockets varsity hockey team. Violating this policy, including any online posts, will result in immediate suspension with a review for possible expulsion. Given today’s events, I expect teachers and students to be extra vigilant. It is imperative that you come forward and hold the person or people accountable. Our school must be a safe, welcoming environment for all students. That is all. Have a good rest of the afternoon.”

Chapter 38: Logan

When the bell rings at the end of History of World Governments, Mr. Bartley comes over to me. “Logan, one moment please.” He walks to his desk. I exchange a look with Cade that says, Now what? He sets his backpack on his desk and waits for me. Mr. Bartley picks up a piece of paper that’s folded in half and stapled shut. My name is scrawled on the outside. “Mr. Lane dropped this off and asked me to give it to you.”

He holds it out, and when I take it, Mr. Bartley walks to his coat closet without saying another word. To his back, I say, “Thanks.”

Mr. Lane was my sociology seminar teacher and our National Honor Society advisor my sophomore and junior year.

The moment Cade and I enter the hallway, I open Mr. Lane’s note. “Please come and see me after school today or sometime tomorrow. Mr. Lane”

“What do you think he wants?” Cade asks.

“No idea. The last time we spoke was a few weeks ago, when he told me he nominated me for the Outstanding Senior College Scholarship Award. Maybe it has something to do with that?”

Cade nods. “You want me to go with you?”

“Aren’t you supposed to help your dad repair the furnace?”

“I’m sure whatever Mr. Lane wants will only take a few minutes. I can wait.”

“No. Don’t keep your dad waiting. I’m sure it’s nothing. He didn’t make it sound urgent, so I doubt it’s anything too important.”

“Are you sure?”