Teaching | Eddie Munson

The Lesson - Part Two

"So The Catcher in the Rye is not about the son of a farmer who wants to gather all the grain to make his father proud?" Eddie exclaimed, his hand dramatically placed over his heart, feigning shock. The dim light of a night lamp illuminating Victoria's amused expression as she tried to stifle her laughter. Today had been filled with his relentless jokes during their study session, and she found herself genuinely enjoying his sense of humor, even if it was often offbeat.

But as Eddie's playful grin faded, a hint of seriousness crept into his demeanor, and Victoria wasn't sure if he was joking or genuinely oblivious to the book's significance.

"Come on, Munson. I don't believe you haven't read this classic!" She leaned forward, her elbows resting on her knees, the pile of books between them a chaotic testament to their shared academic struggle. "You showed me so many obscure titles today that I didn't even know existed, but you've never cracked open this gem? Especially since it's so controversial and you love everything that stirs the pot."

Eddie shrugged, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips. "I knew it wasn't a story about living in the field of rye, but I've never actually read it." The embarrassment in his voice was evident, and Victoria noted how he shifted slightly on the bed, trying to appear nonchalant.

"Well, I promise you it would fit perfectly into your essay. Plus, it's just a good read. It's actually one of my favorites." Her eyes brightened as she recalled the characters and themes that made her love the novel—a feeling of nostalgia washing over her. Eddie found himself captivated, drawn to the spark in her expression, lingering a moment longer before his gaze dropped to the mess of notes scattered around them.

Victoria stretched her arms overhead, her body fatigued after hours of sitting. "It's really late. I don't think we can think of anything more tonight. I should probably head out." She glanced at the clock, and Eddie's heart sank as he realized it was nearly 11 p.m. How had time slipped away so quickly?

"Damn, I haven't even asked if you're hungry!" he exclaimed, genuine concern etching his features.

Victoria burst into laughter, shaking her head. "Damn, Munson, I didn't know you were such a proper host." She waved a dismissive hand, a playful smirk on her lips. "I'm a big girl. I can survive a few hours without eating."

"Yeah, of course. I'll do better next time," Eddie said, but the moment the words left his mouth, he wished he could take them back. The playful glint in Victoria's eyes faded, replaced by a look that told him she wasn't amused.

"It was a one-time situation. I agreed to help you, but I'm not going to be tutoring you the whole semester for a stash of weed." Her eyebrow arched. Eddie felt a pang of regret; he'd overstepped, assuming too much about their agreement. He shifted uncomfortably, searching for an excuse, when suddenly, his uncle's voice broke through the tension.

"Eddie, you home?" The low rumble came from just outside the trailer, pulling them both toward the door.

His uncle stood in the doorway, surprise flickering across his face as he noticed the girl next to his nephew. The expression shifted almost immediately to a wide smile, genuine warmth lighting up his features. "Vickie! I had no idea you were visiting us!"

Victoria smiled back politely, though the nickname made her frown internally. She hated it, but Mr. Munson was kind enough to have a pass. "Good evening, Mr. Munson. Actually, I was just leaving. I was helping Eddie with some homework." The nervous tone in her voice hinted at her unease, as if she feared his uncle might jump to conclusions about her late-night visit.

Eddie noticed her anxiety, a mix of pride and embarrassment swelling within him as he thought about how much he valued her presence, even if she was here out of pity or obligation.