Blood Bath

Chapter 28

The newspapers were back to their normal size, and it wasn't long before Colton finished the route. He missed the last-minute race to school. Today, the drive home seemed anticlimactic. He walked into the kitchen and sat across from his mom.

"You look down in the dumps."

"I am, Mom. I should be in school instead of sitting here. This is so crappy."

"Perhaps if you eat breakfast and work on your business, you'll perk up," Cyndi said as she got up and walked to the stove. She returned with several pancakes and a cup of coffee. "We received two more orders for security systems. I can't believe how fast your business is growing. Most businesses take forever to get off the ground, and here you and Seth are with over twenty paying customers."

"I know. Seth is amazing. Did you know he planned this business over two months ago? I'm lucky to have him as a partner. I hope I can contribute enough."

"Don't worry, Colton, you're doing your share."

After breakfast Colton talked to Sheriff McNabb and Deputy Ned. They received the evidence and forwarded the results to the high school principal. Colton asked his mom to call the school and find out when he can return.

"I'm not calling today, Colton. Mr. Zeller will have to show the evidence to the Superintendent and perhaps even the School Board so they can decide what to do. I'll call him tomorrow morning, so don't plan on returning until after Thanksgiving."

Seth and Lacie kept Colton informed about the happenings in school. During lunch they did a video-chat on Facebook. Colton missed being with his friends and seeing them in school without him made it worse.

After school, Seth stopped into the office to order more equipment. Jim also dropped in. He informed Colton and Seth that a customer on The Point asked if they would like to install a system at his factory in Lapeer and Romeo.

"Wow. Did you get his phone number?" Colton asked.

Jim handed him a business card and Colton recognized the name. He was one of our first customers. I guess he's impressed with our service."

"That's what he told me," said Jim. "He suggested calling him in January, after the holidays."

Seth looked at the business card. "Do you think we could do this big of a job, Jim?"

"Look. It will take a few more workers. I know guys that have electrical experience who would love this kind of work."

In an excited tone Colton said, "I think we should attempt to land this job and look for more. If we want to grow this company, we need to think big. I would love to have two crews installing security systems full time."

Seth agreed and Jim said he would line up workers in case they land the contract. The meeting lasted until dinner time. Seth had a dinner date with Beth and Colton wanted to spend time with his family.

"Are you sure you don't want me to leave so you can call Lacie before dinner?" asked Seth.

"That to. I missed being with her in school. I wonder what it will be like when she's in college and I'm here working on our business?"

Seth thought about what Colton said. "It sounds like you're thinking of skipping college. Is that your plan?"

"No. I plan on finishing college online. It will take less than two years. I already signed up for business classes next semester."

Seth laughed. "That's been my plan all along. In fact, I've earned over six credits already."

"Damn, I better get working. I can't let you graduate from college first."