Chapter Twenty-four

Emily endured the remainder of the day with a sad heart. The youngsters, feeling her preoccupied attitude, were more agitated than normal. She struggled to retain her customary excitement and became irritated at little distractions. When the final bell rang, signifying the end of the school day, Emily felt a rush of relief sweep over her. She started cleaning up her classroom, thinking that the normal chore would help clear her thoughts.

Just as she had finished arranging the desks, there came a tap on her door. Emily glanced up to find Claire Montgomery standing there, arms crossed, with a smug grin on her face.

"Emily, do you have a moment? I will like to speak with you" Claire inquired, her tone oozing with fake kindness.

Emily moaned internally but maintained a pleasant grin. "Okay, Claire. "What can I do for you?"

Claire entered the classroom and locked the door behind her. "I just wanted to talk to you about some concerns I've been hearing around the school."

Emily felt a twinge