Page 82 of Too Hot

“I think we’ll do an assembly on Monday and invite the parents. I’ve already talked with the high school; we can use their auditorium.”

“That would be good. Get the parents involved.” It was going to take a lot of work, classroom wise. All their stuff was in their school classrooms and who knew in what condition.

“The town council is already working to get new supplies for the classes.”

“Maybe we can contact some of the local businesses in town and see if we can get some donations.” It would help with the financial strain this fire was going to cause. The sound of tires made them both turn.

Brianna’s eyes widened when Sierra, Crystal, Tessa, and Ellie climbed out of the big black SUV. “Principal Meyers, these are my friends.” Brianna introduced them. “What are you doing here?” she asked them.

Sierra smiled. “We wanted to come and tell you and the principal, of course, that Wicked Sanctuary is chipping in. We’ve already ordered as many supplies as we could think of for the kids.”

“Excuse me?” The principal looked shocked.

Tessa stepped forward. “I’m a librarian and have worked with a couple of your teachers. I have a pretty good idea what’s needed. We already have books, art supplies, boards, and other things for the students, and just need to know where it can all be stored until the classes are settled.”

Crystal stepped forward. “And you have labor—us—to help the teachers set up their classrooms and get things in order so the kids don’t feel out of place.”

“I also have supplies that we can use to decorate the classroom, plus we’d like to host a party for each classroom to welcome the kids.”

“Oh my goodness.” The principal put her hand over her heart. “This is very unexpected.”

Brianna’s heart swelled.

“We don’t want the kids to suffer. We all agreed, along with our significant others,” Sierra said.

“I don’t know what to say.” Principal Meyers had tears in her eyes.

“I don’t either,” Brianna admitted. This was so unexpected.

“You don’t have to say anything. All we need is to know when and where to show up,” Crystal commented.

“How about I call you with the information this weekend,” Brianna offered. Everything they’d offered was a bit overwhelming.

“Perfect.” Sierra swept Brianna into a hug. “Hopefully, we’ll see you tonight.”

Brianna nodded, staring after her friends as they left. She was so lucky.

“I didn’t expect such generosity,” Principal Meyers said. “I was never sure about the club, but I can see they’re a positive part of our community.”

“You know about Wicked Sanctuary?” Why was Brianna so surprised at that?

“After the town council’s support, let’s see, about two years ago, I don’t think there’s anyone in town who doesn’t know. I’ve always said to each their own. And that goes for you, too, young lady.” The principal turned her head. “And here comes your young man.”

Brianna turned to see Rafe walking toward them complete in his turn-outs, gloves, and respirator. Damn if he didn’t look hot. Almost too hot.

“Well?” the principal asked.

“We’re done. There is some instability, but I can escort your teachers in to gather what supplies they can salvage. It will be one at a time. The sprinklers, plus our efforts to put out the fire, did a lot of damage,” the captain said.

“Not unexpected. I’ll let the town council know and see when they can get someone out here to start cleaning this mess up. I have a feeling they’ll need to tear the building down and rebuild.” Principal Meyers shook her head. “Thank you for all your help.” She went to shake their hands. Both men pulled off their gloves.

“I’ll be in touch,” the captain said as the principal walked to her car, then he looked at Rafe. “We’ll go over your report on Monday. Have a good weekend.” With that, the chief left.

Rafe stripped out of his turn-outs and put them in the trunk.

“Was it arson?” Brianna asked.

“Yes.” He rubbed his forehead. “It’s going to be a while before the school will be ready for students.”

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