Page 44 of The Coach

“That’s one way to put it.”

Principal Howard crosses her arms, watching me carefully. “How areyoudoing?”

I pause.

The way she asks, it feels pointed. Like maybe she knows something. Or suspects something.

I paste on a practiced smile. “I’m good.”

She lifts a brow. “You sure?”

I force a nod. “Yeah. Just adjusting to the new dynamic. New school year and all.”

She studies me for a second longer, then nods. “Alright. If you need anything, let me know.”

I release a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. “Thanks.”

She gives me one last look before stepping out.

As soon as she’s gone, I turn toward the window, watching as the last few buses pull away from the school.

That’s when I see him.

Or think I do.

A man, standing near the parking lot.

Tall. Dark coat. Familiar stance.

My stomach tightens.

It’s only for a split second, but I swear to God—it looks like Kyle.

My pulse spikes.

But then a bus moves, blocking my view for half a second.

And when it clears?—

He’s gone.

I blink rapidly, trying to convince myself I imagined it.

It wasn’t him. It wasn’t him.

I shake it off, forcing myself to exhale.

I’m probably just on edge.

Or maybe my brain is working overtime because of everything with Jackson.

Either way, I don’t have time for this.

I grab my things and head for the door—just as Lauren bursts in.

Her eyes are wide, her grin bigger than usual.

“I come bearing gifts,” she announces, waving an envelope in the air.

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