Page 44 of Love's Bloom
“Thanks,” said Misty. “I had to be sure.”
“As you should,” Crystal said. “Talk to you later.”
Knowing everything was okay, Misty allowed the workman to come inside and followed him as he went from room to room, making notes on a notepad he carried with him.
When he was through, he said, “It’s a pretty simple set-up. I’ll return tomorrow with everything I need, and we’ll get the job done.”
“I won’t be here, but I’ll find someone to let you in,” said Misty. “Probably my sister, Crystal Owen.”
The man bobbed his head. “That’s who called me.”
As soon as he left in his truck, Misty called her sister. “Thanks, Crystal, for arranging for me to have a security system. That’s such a generous gift.”
“Thank Emmett. He’s the one who insisted we do it,” said Crystal. “We’ll both feel better knowing it’s installed. And I’ve already set aside time to be at your house while the work is being done.”
Misty let out a sigh of gratitude. Her sister was once again taking care of her. And now, Emmett, too.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Misty got dressed in a pair of slacks Susie had given her and a flowing green top. After learning how important it was, she wore comfy sandals on her feet.
Her shoulder-length dark hair hung straight instead of in the ponytail she preferred on a hot summer day.
Today was the first day of the school year, and she’d meet with her colleagues for the first time before students arrived later in the week. She was a bit nervous. She looked younger than twenty-six, which was no problem with the kids, but sometimes older teachers had to be shown how effective she was as a teacher before they accepted her.
Sugar stared up at her and wagged her tail.
Misty hugged her. “You must be a good girl today. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
She’d taken Sugar for an early morning walk, but being home alone for a day was a test for both of them.
At the sound of the doorbell, Misty went to answer it.
Hazel greeted her. “Hi! Are you ready?”
“Yes,” said Misty, feeling her excitement grow. She grabbed her purse, said goodbye to Sugar, and locked the front door.
“Before we get in the car for our training, I want to take a selfie with you,” said Hazel.
Misty put an arm around Hazel and smiled at Hazel’s request. She loved having such a close friend. They’d instantly clicked.
“David will meet us later today at the Kung Fu Karate Studio,” said Misty as she climbed into Hazel’slight-blue VW convertible.
“I’m relieved it’s just going to be the two of us for now,” said Hazel. “I’m not that athletic.”
“Bet you were a cute cheerleader, though,” said Misty.
Hazel laughed. “I practiced a lot.”
###
A few minutes later, they arrived at the school, which was on the outer edge of the center of town. The day was going to be one of learning names and new procedures.
Her former third-grade teacher approached her.
“Hi, Mrs. Walters,” Misty said, beaming at her.
“Misty Owens!” She took hold of both of Misty’s hands and squeezed. “I was delighted to learn you were teaching here at Emerson Wittner Elementary. It’s always satisfying to know that one of my special former students has chosen to be a teacher. I’m here to help you in any way I can. And please call me Marilyn.”
