67 We Got This

(Winona)

“Bye, Sweety. Your teacher has my number, so if you need Mommy, she can call me anytime,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady. My heart is pounding, and my hands are clammy.

“Here’s your lunch bag. This is your locker,” Jayden says as he passes the bag to Abby, giving her a tight hug.

She stows her bag into her locker. “Puppy!” She points at the photo of her favorite toy, so she knows her locker. “Bye, Mommy. Bye, Daddy.”

She waves at us before racing off to join a group of kids who are crafting. Her enthusiasm is infectious, but my nerves are still on edge.

Her teacher smiles warmly. “She’ll be just fine.”

“You’ve read her file, right? You understand she has some physical limitations because of her health,” I explain, my anxiety swelling with each word.

“We have, and I can assure you, every staff member here has advanced first aid training, and we have two qualified nurses on site. Abby will be in safe hands,” the teacher reassures, her tone gentle but firm.

“No one can g