Forever And Always

Chapter 131

Callie was now walking the hallways of the destroyed school of Riverdale with Archie, Kevin, Alice, Weatherbee, and a few other teachers.

"Hiram's escapees trashed everything," Alice informed. "They pulled wires from walls, smashed circuit breakers, even broke sinks and toilets."

"How long till we get this place back in shape, Mr. Andrews?" Weatherbee asked. 

"We're looking at least three weeks," Archie answered. "And that's if I can pull a crew together."

"I'm sure I can make a few calls to bring in some help for a bit," Callie offered. 

"That would be great," Archie smiled at her. 

"Count me in, as well Archie," Kevin pleaded.

"Well, let's get started," Alice sighed. "I guess it's back to remote learning." Alice walked off with Weatherbee as the others parted. 

"Are you going to be fine with remote learning?" Kevin asked.

"Yes," Callie answered. "This will allow me to be near Toni if she needs any help. She's been wonderful watching Lottie for me on days she isn't at the daycare."

***

Callie was now at the Andrews' house with Archie; she was doing more work for Uncle Frank; to send to mom. 

"Little sister," Archie began. "You are truly a miracle worker."

"Just doing my job," Callie corrected as she typed away. Archie then sat at the table. "What?"

"You and Sweet Pea," Archie brought up; she looked at him. "You two reconnected pretty fast." She looked back at the computer. "Do you want to go down that path with him?"

"I am unsure," Callie admitted. "I just don't my heart broken by him again, I don't want to drag my kids into that mess."

"He won't leave this time," Archie assured as he put a hand on her shoulder. "I don't think he wants to put on that invisible shirt of guilt ever again. Mr. Keller told me that he refused to leave his trailer for weeks after he ended it with you the second time." Archie looked like he was going to say something else when there was a knock at the door. Archie got up to answer it.

"Archie," Veronica greeted; stepping in. "Thank god. I heard about the prison break." The two hugged. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," Archie answered as they parted. "I mean, the schools a mess, but it could have been a lot worse. How did things go with Chad? Did he sign the divorce papers"

Veronica's mood did not get better. "Um...not exactly. Chad threw me a curveball. I could explain, but for legal reasons, it's better you don't know the details." Archie looked down. "I know, I'm sorry. I really hate that I'm dragging you through this."

"I appreciate it, Ronnie," Archie admitted. "But, until you and Chad are officially done, I think we should keep our distance. I mean, we can be friends, but that's it. Not until those papers are signed."

"I suppose that makes sense," Veronica said reluctantly. 

"And I'm going to be busy anyway," Archie said. "I told Tom that I'd help him round up any convicts who are still causing trouble." Veronica left in a sulky mood.

"That was a wise decision," Callie complimented as Archie walked back over. "Definitely learned from your lesson before Veronica was even married."    

Archie went into the fridge. "If Wilbur was still alive what would you do?" 

"Nothing," Callie answered. "If he was alive; the kids and I would still be in Rhode Island."