Page 73 of Give Me Strength

She blinks, caught off guard. “What?”

“This isn’t just about the school’s reputation anymore. This is about your personal responsibility and the consequences you’re going to face. That means your personal assets are on the line too. So, tell me, what assets do you have? A house, perhaps? Investments? Retirement accounts?”

Her eyes flicker with panic. She swallows hard. “Are you suggesting?—”

“I’m not suggesting anything. Simply stating facts. You and everyone who had a hand in this are liable. Everything you own could be subject to a lawsuit. Your house, your savings, any investments you’ve made — it’s all on the table. The law doesn’t look kindly on those who prioritize their careers over the safety of the ones they are meant to protect. You’re lucky Ash doesn’t want to press charges, but that doesn’t mean you won’t face the consequences for your actions.”

Before she can muster a response, I call out, “You can come in now.”

The door swings open, and a woman in a suit walks in, holding a thick envelope. Nicole’s eyes dart to the newcomer, then back to me, confusion evident on her face.

The woman approaches the desk, her expression professional and unreadable. “Nicole Richardson, you’ve been served.”

She hands over the envelope, which Nicole takes with trembling hands, her face ashen.

“Oh, for fuck’s sake! Isn’t she rich enough already?” Nicole hisses as soon as the woman exits.

I pocket my phone and stand, adjusting my jacket as I do. “Consider this the beginning. I’ll see you in court. You might want to start thinking about what you’re willing to lose, because this is far from over. And since you’ve officially been put on notice, do not speak to Ash again without counsel present. If you think that’s an empty threat, try it. I’ll add a restraining order to this, and you can kiss this cushy job goodbye.”

I turn to leave, but pause at the door, turning back to her. “By the way, where’s the staff lounge?”

She blinks, momentarily thrown off by the question. “Why do you want to know?”

“I told you, I’m not a forgiving man. This isn’t about one person’s negligence. It’s about a system that failed a student. This lawsuit is just the start. You and the school will be held accountable for your actions — or lack thereof.”

“It’s not enough that you’re ruining me. You just have to go after innocent teachers as well?”

“Innocent?” I meet her gaze, my expression hardening. “While anyone of your teachers could have stepped in to stop this at any time over the last four years, there are two in particular who, like you, have been actively threatening her. They made her life miserable for four years, just like you did. And I plan to go after them as well.”

Her mouth opens slightly, but no words come out.

“This isn’t just about you,” I continue. “This is about everyone who allowed this to happen. The failure of this school to protect one of its students won’t go unpunished. And I know, for a fact, that Ash wasn’t the only student that you three targeted.”

With that, I turn and walk out of the office, feeling a grim sense of satisfaction. The weight of my steps feels lighter as I head towards the staff lounge, knowing that justice, albeit delayed, is finally beginning to unfold. It may take time, but I’m determined to see it through for Ashlynn’s sake, and for all the other students who deserve to feel safe.

People like Nicole Richardson will learn the hard way that there’s no room for mercy when the safety of someone you love is at stake.

30

ASHLYNN

The town car glides smoothly through the airport’s pick-up lane, my heart races with anticipation as I scan the crowd for a familiar face. It’s been months since I last saw Aunt Bonnie, and the thought of finally hugging her again makes my chest tighten with emotion.

As soon as I spot her, I can’t contain my excitement. Before the car even comes to a complete stop, I fling the door open and make a beeline for her. Aunt Bonnie’s eyes light up when she sees me, and we collide in a warm, tight embrace.

She pulls back slightly, holding me at arm’s length to get a good look at me. “You look… something.”

“Something? Thanks.” My cheeks heat up under her intense scrutiny. “And right back at you. How was the flight?”

“Long,” her eyes crinkle with a warm smile, “but I’m just glad to be back.”

We climb into the backseat, settling in as Russ loads her suitcases into the trunk of the car. As the car pulls away from the curb, Aunt Bonnie and I sit side by side, our hands clasped together. It’s a small gesture, but it feels comforting, like we’re re-establishing our connection after so much time apart.

Even if it doesn’t feel that way. We talked, more-so on this trip than any of her other ones. But somethings are easier to keep from her when her inquisitive eyes aren’t scrutinizing my every expression. I’ve never been good about schooling my features around her.

“So, how’s everything been?” She turns to face me fully, her eyes bright with curiosity and warmth.

I let out a breath, trying to sum up the whirlwind of the past few months. “It’s been... a lot. But good. Really, really good. I got into Bayard.”

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