[Bovice]

"Thanks Solomon." Alicia said as she went to get cleaned up.

***

Holden sighed as he put the food into the oven. He went to the study as he wiped his hands on his apron. He entered the study and saw that Amanda and Hayden were still doing their homework. "Hayden can you excuse me and Amanda, I would talk to her for a second." He said as he went over to Amanda. He kneeled down as he waited for Hayden to leave.

He looked up at Amanda when Hayden was out of the room. He sighed, "Amanda you know I love you right? It's just that you can't go around and hurting people when they pick on you." He said with a slight frown. "Look at me, I was the only openly gay person at my school. I got picked on almost every day, but I never hit someone." He said brushing her hair out of her face.

"Now when you are done with your homework I want you to write an apology letter to the boy you hit, ok?" He said as he placed a kiss on her forehead.

Amanda nodded, "I know and I'm sorry." She said looking down. "I will, does that mean you aren't mad at me anymore, and I'm not grounded?" Amanda asked looking down at Holden.

"First I have to see the letter you write, and then I will decide if you are still grounded." Holden said as he stood up. "Now back to your homework, supper will be done in about forty-five minutes." He said with a small smile as he went back to the kitchen.