Part Eleven

Kelley spent the next week in the hospital before he was discharged and he walked into the lobby of the hospital to find half of the football team waiting for him along with Jesse. Applause rang out and the guys all slapped Kelley on the back. Even Lee gave him half a smile.

“There he is!” Jesse grinned and gave him a bear hug.

“What are you all doing here?”

“You’re officially Public now.” Arlo’s voice was slightly over confident.

“It took me getting beaten up to be official. I didn’t know I was your type, O’Neill.” Laughter rang out around them and Arlo grinned broadly.

“You’re not that hot, Kelley.”

They all walked to the parking lot with Mason carrying Kelley’s bag and Kelley was surprised to see his Escalade in the parking lot. The guys all made their way to various vehicles, some of which didn’t look roadworthy at all, and drove off with well wishes.

“Thanks, Mason … for everything.”

“You’re welcome, Kelley, I mean it. Now, it’s time to take you home.”

Kelley froze in his steps a