Free Keepers of the Cave by Gerri Hill

should scope out the other teachers, see what they wear,” she said. “And then we can plan a shopping trip.”
    “Oh no. Don’t lump me in with we and shopping ,” CJ said. “At least not clothes shopping. I’d rather go to the dentist.”
    Paige smiled. “That’s not really a surprise. I’ve seen how you dress.”
    “Good. So you won’t have to try to change me when we get into our golden years.”
    Paige couldn’t contain her laughter—it bubbled out before she could stop it. CJ’s eyes were dancing with amusement and Paige just went with the moment, enjoying CJ’s playfulness this morning. Oh, maybe she did need to lighten up.
    “You know, I think you’re making a big deal out of this anyway,” CJ continued. “I mean, you’re a gym teacher. My gym teachers wore workout gear. Maybe you could get some short shorts or maybe some tights and a sports bra setup. That’d be really hot,” she said with a grin.
    “I so do not see that happening,” she said, still smiling.
    But later, as they were parked in front of the admin building, her smile vanished and she gave CJ a threatening look.
    “Don’t even think about it,” she warned.
    “Look, let’s just make it quick, then I’m gone.”
    “I don’t believe that it’s necessary.”
    “You don’t think everyone is watching the new teacher? Do you want to pull this off or not?”
    Paige stared at her. “This is not necessary. You’re doing this just to piss me off.”
    CJ grinned. “Well, that too. This is the worst assignment I’ve ever had.” She leaned closer. “So humor me. Kiss me and get it over with.”
    Paige’s gaze dropped to her lips, then back to her eyes. “Didn’t we just have this discussion last night?”
    “Yes.”
    “And?”
    “And I never concurred with your line of thinking.” CJ smiled and it was almost a sweet smile, Paige noted. “We’re in love. Now kiss me goodbye and go start your day, honey .”
    Paige relented. She was making far too big a deal out of it anyway. She closed the distance between them, touching her lips to CJ’s. To her horror, she felt them linger there. She pulled back quickly, unable to meet her eyes.
    “That wasn’t so bad, was it?”
    Paige cleared her throat, then opened the door. “Don’t shoot anyone today,” she said dryly as she slammed the door behind her.
    She took a deep breath, making her way to the administration building where she was to meet Gayla Grumfeld. She was ten minutes early but was pleasantly surprised to find Gayla waiting for her in the lobby.
    “I was hoping you’d be early,” the older woman greeted her. “I’m Gayla. You are Paige, right?”
    “Yes. Nice to meet you,” Paige said, extending her hand.
    “I’m afraid the whole tour will have to wait for another day, but I do have time to go over the position somewhat. Fiona Hogan called in sick this morning,” Gayla said as she began walking down the hall. “Very unusual for her, but I’ll have to cover her classes,” she explained.
    “I hope it’s nothing serious,” Paige said.
    “Don’t know. There was only a message left very early this morning.” She held the door open, motioning Paige to go first. “We call this the breezeway, even though it’s enclosed,” Gayla said. “This links the admin building to the classrooms. There is another one on the other side of campus that links to the dorms and cafeteria. The students are allowed outside—supervised sessions—twice a day. Those who get good marks for behavior get some hours out alone on the weekends. They can go as far as the lake and the hike and bike trail. Everything else is off limits,” she explained.
    The long corridor had windows on both sides. On one side, there was a view of the parking lot and beyond that, the small lake. On the other side was a small courtyard with tables and chairs, a few of them occupied.
    “The courtyard is for staff mainly. Some of us use it for breakfast and lunch. The only times students are