Keeping Cole's Promise. Cheryl Harper

need a lot of time to worry about what the next week might hold. He’d either pass or fail. Worrying wouldn’t change a thing.

      “Got any jobs you need help with?” he asked as he slouched against the seat.

      “Yep.” EW drove right past the entrance to the trailer park. When he didn’t slow down at the closest gas station, Cole relaxed a bit. It didn’t matter where they were headed. Anywhere with company was going to be better than time alone.

      EW pulled into Junior’s Bait and Tackle where a neon sign shouted We Cash Checks.

      “Beer?” Cole asked as he opened the door.

      EW pursed his lips. “Well, that’s not a terrible idea, but get the bait first. Some Cokes. We’re goin’ fishin’. Found a nice shady spot yesterday that’s bound to work.”

      Cool water. Shade. Silence. EW was a genius.

      The uncontrollable smile that curled Cole’s lips felt good. He’d worked hard for his first week out in the open. With EW’s help, he might enjoy a weekend.