10.2

Melius’ POV

It made little sense how anyone could be cruel to a child. Hell, I didn’t understand how Lina could just stop loving her. She, above everyone, knows how it feels to be treated with disdain. There wasn’t much I could say to Kataya about other people. Only what I could do as her father. “Listen kitten, you are special.

Other people will try to make you feel less than you are. Besides, you have me and Linus. We love you just as you are.”

There was silence for the rest of the car ride. Kat said nothing until we pulled into the school parking lot. She faced me with glistening eyes. “Thanks, Dad. I know I’m special, but sometimes I wished I wasn’t.”

Pulling her in for a hug, I rested my cheek on the top of her head. “It will get better. Well, it may get worse. You’re in junior high now. That’s a battlefield in itself.”

She chuckled. “Yeah, I know. I miss having Ms. Tanis as a teacher. I wished she would be at this school.” Kataya pulled away from the hug. “Thanks again, Dad.”

Pa