Miranda smiled faintly. "It's okay, we can talk about it."Even with her reassurance, the conversation fell silent.Then, Winter's side of the call got noisy. "Mimi, I need to go. The family dinner's starting, and my mom's looking for me.""Alright," Miranda said.After they hung up, Miranda was abo
On the other end of the line, Paul heard Miranda's gentle, calm voice. It sounded like she was smiling as she wished him a Merry Christmas.In his mind, he pictured her holding the phone, the Christmas lights casting a soft glow on her face. She must have looked beautiful.…On Christmas morning, Mi
During winter break, the school was very quiet since most students were away.The security guard saw Miranda at the gate and said, "You must be back from college for the holidays. Are you here to visit your old teachers?"With some senior students still in class, he waved her in and added, "Just kee
Lionel's face went serious. "Mrs. Hoven, my daughter Miranda is a great young woman. Whatever you've heard, please stop spreading these nasty rumors."Such talk is just gossip," Lionel said firmly. "It's not how a teacher should behave."Then, Lionel walked away, clearly upset.Judy watched him go a
"Oh my! It really is you, Miranda!" Karen's loud, surprised voice came through the door. "I almost thought I was mistaken!"Karen Larden, the loud neighbor next door, was known for her gossip. Her husband also taught at Earnest High, and they moved into the staff quarters the same year as Miranda's
Miranda shook the mop and continued to swing it at Karen. Karen held her head and ran toward the door. "I'm not done with you! That damned wisteria from your place has spread into my yard. I'm burning it all down tomorrow! It's so annoying!" Karen yelled, then ran off as Miranda chased after her wi
Jenny worked at the power plant.With a stable job and no real stress, she was rather plump and cheerful. Today, she wore a bright green sweater and had her short hair styled in fluffy, wool-like curls, making her look like a robust Christmas tree."What are you talking about? Can't you speak proper
Among Anna and George's three daughters-in-law, Rena was known for her grace and competence, Jenny had a charming way with words, but Mindy never quite fit in. Over time, even Lionel's standing suffered.After all, Lionel was seen as someone who forgot his roots after getting married. He couldn't co