To Cast Turpentine Kisses (A Frerard Student/Teacher)

Chapter 10

It's the middle of October now, and it's parent-teacher conference time, which means Frank's parents are going to have to meet Mr. Way. Frank thinks he's going to throw up, he's so nervous. He can't decide if it's better or worse that he can't be there to witness it. But his parents come home pleased with how well Frank's grades have been this semester so far, and talking about how much they like that new art teacher, Mr. Way. Frank does his best impassive innocent face, but his mom says, "Don't be shy, Frank, Mr. Way told us all about you." No seriously, Frank is going to throw up. But his Dad just chimes in with, "Yeah, he says you have some real artistic talent. Just need to keep at it." Frank smiles and excuses himself. He's so glad Gerard is there to handle the big stuff, because he is clearly a cooler head under pressure than Frank is. Frank's good mood evaporates later though, when he can hear his parents fighting AGAIN from down the hall. He puts his pillow over his head and hopes it'll be over soon, and this time without slammed doors and tires squealing out of the driveway. He knows his parents love him and try their best for him, but they just do not have it together. Frank wishes he was at Gerard's house.