Chapter 14

Nicola Taylor

"Miss Taylor," a small, timid voice broke through the quiet hum of conversation, prompting me to set my tea down. I smiled warmly as Arabella hurried over and enveloped me in a gentle hug.

Her sweetness never failed to touch my heart, though I couldn't quite fathom why she held me in such high regard. Still, her affection was something I cherished deeply.

"Hello, honey. How are you holding up?" I asked gently, guiding her back to where we were sitting. She took my hand and pulled me down into my seat again before climbing onto my lap.

"Miss Taylor always has us sit on her lap and sings whenever we cry or get hurt," Arabella explained with a bright smile to her grandparents, who beamed in response.

To be honest, I've known Arabella practically since she could remember. I first met her when she was three years old, and I've been her teacher ever since. She was a quite kid when I met her, often spending more time near my desk than at her own. Over the past couple of years