Chapter 8 In the morning, Avery meets Jacob outside his dorm, as usual. They sit through mass with their separate classes. It’s hard for Avery to keep his thoughts on the service. They keep turning to Jacob, his curls, his smile, the feel of his body in Avery’s arms, his skin beneath Avery’s hands. He can’t wait until the break when Jacob will visit him at home. He’s already looking forward to s*x in the hammock his mother has set up in their backyard. It’s hidden behind his father’s tool shed. No one will see them back there. After mass, Avery walks Jacob to the monsignor’s office. He reports there for suspension. On the first day, the other two boys are there, too, already sitting on the bench. Jacob’s told Avery their names are Dan and Erik. Dan holds his side when he walks—his ribs

