Page 23 of After the Rain

"Sounds like you had a busy weekend," I said, trying not to react to Cooper's casual mention of Wade's lengthy phone call. "Did you bring your family tree to share?"

"It's in my backpack! It's so good that Madison's probably going to be jealous."

Wade approached more slowly, letting Cooper monopolize the conversation while exchanging meaningful glances with me. There was something different in his expression—awareness, appreciation, maybe even attraction?

"Thanks again for Saturday,” Wade said, his voice carrying layers beyond simple gratitude. "Cooper hasn't stopped talking about how much fun he had, and honestly, neither have I. It felt..." He paused, searching for words. "It felt really right, having you there."

The admission hung between us, more personal than casual thanks should be. Other parents moved around us in the typical morning chaos, but Wade's focus remained entirely on me.

Mrs. Garrett walked past with her daughter Emma, and I caught her sharp glance at Wade and me, the way her steps slowed as if she was trying to overhear our conversation. Something about her expression suggested she was storing up information.

"I had a great time too," I said, hoping my voice sounded more professional than I felt.

"Speaking of which," Wade continued, either oblivious to Mrs. Garrett's scrutiny or choosing to ignore it, "are we still on for the library event Saturday?"

Other parents nearby turned to look, including Mrs. Henderson, who smiled warmly, and Mrs. Garrett, who looked decidedly less pleased. Our weekend plans were now public knowledge in the small school community.

Wade seemed unbothered by the attention, even pleased that our connection was becoming visible.

"Absolutely," I said. "I'm looking forward to seeing what architectural marvels you two create."

During lunch, my concerns proved justified when Dr. Williams' secretary delivered a note requesting a meeting after school about "maintaining appropriate professional boundaries."

My stomach dropped. Someone had complained.

Brook found me picking at my salad in the teacher's lounge, immediately noticing my changed mood.

"What's wrong? You look like someone just cancelled Christmas."

I showed her the note. Her face darkened as she read.

"Fucking busybodies," she muttered. "Let me guess—Mrs. Garrett saw you and Wade making heart eyes at each other and decided to make it her business."

"Even if that's true, it doesn't matter. If parents are complaining about my conduct, I have to take it seriously."

"One parent. Probably one bigoted parent who can't handle seeing her kid's teacher be anything other than a sexless robot."

But Brook's support couldn't eliminate my growing dread. I'd survived one professional crisis in Portland; I couldn't afford another.

Dr. Williams greetedme warmly but with obvious concern. "Ezra, please sit. I want to start by saying this isn't a formal disciplinary meeting. You're one of our most dedicated teachers."

"Thank you," I said, though her tone suggested a significant 'but' was coming.

"However, I've received some concerns about your relationship with the Harrison family. Mrs. Garrett contacted me this morning. She expressed concerns about what she described as 'inappropriate familiarity' between you and Mr. Harrison."

My heart hammered as she consulted her notes.

"Specifically, she mentioned observing extended conversation during morning drop-off that seemed more personal than professional, and she learned from other parents that you spent several hours at the Harrison home over the weekend. She also mentioned that you appear to be making social plans together, which she feels creates an inappropriate dynamic."

The coded language was clear. Mrs. Garrett's concerns weren't really about professional boundaries—they were about my sexuality and her assumptions about my motivations.

"Dr. Williams, I can explain exactly what happened. Cooper was struggling with the family tree assignment because the worksheet didn't accommodate his family structure post-divorce. I offered homework help, which is standard practice?—"

"I understand your intentions were professional," she interrupted gently. "But we need to be mindful of appearances as well as realities. In a small community like ours, people notice when teachers and parents develop relationships that seem to extend beyond educational support."

"What exactly is Mrs. Garrett suggesting?"

Dr. Williams looked uncomfortable. "She's concerned that your... personal interest in Mr. Harrison might be affecting your professional judgment. She mentioned that other parents have noticed you giving Cooper special attention."

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