David’s expression hardened. “Because we heard what Vance was doing.”
Mr. Lewis lowered his eyes. “There’s nothing to be done. He sold the land. I’ve been fired. I have to leave.”
Marcus looked toward the trailer, then back at him.
“Vance thinks he sold the land to strangers.”
Before Mr. Lewis could answer, a silver car sped down the road and stopped beside the SUVs.
Principal Vance stepped out, clutching a leather briefcase.
“What is going on here?” he demanded. “This property is closed to visitors.”
Then he noticed the men in suits. His face changed instantly.
“Oh,” Vance said, forcing a smile. “You must be the buyers.”
Marcus turned to him. “We are.”
Vance hurried forward with his hand out. “Principal Vance. I didn’t expect your development group to come out here personally.”
Marcus ignored the handshake.
“We wanted to see the land. And the people living on it.”
Vance glanced at Mr. Lewis with disgust. “Don’t worry about him. I fired him today. He’ll be gone by morning.”
Marcus’ jaw tightened. “Where is he supposed to go?”
Vance laughed. “Who cares? He’s just a janitor.”
The five men went silent.
Mr. Lewis looked down at the dirt, shame burning in his chest.
“Just a janitor?” Marcus repeated.
“That’s right,” Vance smirked. “A nobody. Now, do we have a deal or not?”
Marcus took a step closer. “My name is Marcus.”
Vance blinked.
“Twenty years ago,” he continued, “I was a starving student at this school.”
David moved beside him. “So was I.”
“And me,” Thomas said.
Leo folded his arms. “And me.”
Ben’s voice was quiet but firm. “All of us.”
Vance’s smile faltered.
