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Chapter 4: Emotionally Constipated Jerk

Author: Elixanima
last update Last Updated: 2025-03-23 08:27:12

Lara forced a smile. “Enough, Ali. We’re fine, really. He’s just busy with work, so we don’t see each other much.”

Ali scoffed. “Work? That’s the lamest excuse I’ve ever heard. Do you hear yourself? Look at you—you’re gorgeous, you’re kind, and you’re literally the perfect wife. Meanwhile, he’s out there being an emotionally constipated jerk. Seriously, what’s so special about him? If I were you, I’d find myself a lover. That would teach him a lesson.”

Lara shot her a pointed look. “That’s never going to happen. You know how much I love Lucas.”

Ali groaned dramatically. “God, you’re hopeless. You’re so in love with a walking red flag!”

Lara stifled a laugh. “You sound more bitter than I do. You don’t even have a boyfriend.”

She shrugged. “That’s because men are trash. It’s like they have collectively decided to be terrible. Even the ugly ones cheat! The audacity!”

Before Ali could rant further, her phone rang. She glanced at the screen and scowled.

“Ugh, it’s my manager,” Ali groaned. “I swear, if this is about rescheduling the shoot, I’ll throw a fit.”

She answered the call, her expression darkening with every passing second. After a few minutes, she ended the call with an annoyed sigh. “Damn it! I have to go. The shoot’s back on. The idiot in charge changed his mind last minute.”

Lara winced. “Yikes. He’s in for a rough day.”

“You bet he is.” Ali grabbed her bag, still fuming. “We’ll reschedule our milk tea date, okay? I’ll call you later!”

Lara laughed. “Try not to murder anyone.”

“No promises.” Ali winked before rushing off, her heels clicking sharply against the floor.

Lara shook her head, smiling to herself. Ali could be a handful, but she appreciated her concern—even if her way of showing it was a little... aggressive.

After Ali left, Lara made her way back to the waiting area to ensure all the children had been picked up. But to her surprise, a small figure was still sitting alone on one of the benches.

“Ram?” Lara called gently.

The little girl lifted her head, revealing tear-stained cheeks.

Lara immediately knelt beside her, gently taking her tiny hands. “Oh, sweetie. It’s okay. Don’t cry.”

“Teacher Lara…” Ram sniffled. “Why isn’t my sister here yet? She promised to pick me up.” Her voice wobbled, and her big, glassy eyes threatened to spill more tears.

Lara’s heart clenched at the sight of her distressed face. She reached out, wiping away a tear trailing down the little girl’s cheek.

She turned to Maera. “Has anyone contacted her guardian?”

“The Admin has been calling, but no one is answering,” Maera explained.

Lara sighed and turned back to Ram. “Don’t be sad, sweetheart. Maybe your sister had an emergency at work,” she said gently. “How about I take you home instead?”

Ram’s eyes lit up. “Really?”

“Really.” Lara smiled warmly. “Would that be okay with you?”

Ram nodded eagerly. “Yes! Thank you, Teacher Lara!”

Lara brushed a hand over her hair, relieved to see her smile. “Of course, sweetheart. Just wait here, okay? I’ll grab my things and let the admin know.”

After informing the school office, Lara returned to the waiting area with her things.

“Ready to go, Sweetie?” Lara held out her hand.

Ram grinned and slipped her tiny fingers into Lara’s. Together, they walked toward her car, the little girl’s earlier tears now replaced with a bright, innocent smile.

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