Page 48 of Love's Bloom
Later, Misty checked to see which parents would show up at school to pick up their child and which child was assigned to a bus. Brody was assigned to a bus. She was disappointed not to meet a parent of his but decided she’d keep a close eye on him. She’d felt a special connection to the boy who reminded her so much of herself at that age.
When it was time, she walked her class to the front of the school, where parents and the school buses were waiting. The bus lines were well-organized, and Misty watched over her children, making sure all were picked up.
The principal was standing outside.
Misty went to speak to him. “Hi, Nolan. I have a student I’m concerned about. I think there may be something going on at home.”
A tall man, he looked down at her. “Ms. Owen, this is the first day of school. Certainly, you aren’t so judgmental that you would assign trouble where there isn’t any.”
“I’m just looking for guidance here,” Misty spoke calmly, though her heart was racing.
He moved away, and Misty stared at his retreating figure with dismay.How dare he disregard her concerns without even asking any questions?
Marilyn Walters came over to her. “I couldn’t help overhearing your conversation. I’m sorry. Nolan Deere is just protecting himself. Date and document everything when dealing with him. Include me as someone who was present and can confirm your conversation. He may be new here at the school, but his reputation of being non-supportive to teachers precedes him.”
“Thanks,” said Misty. “I don’t mean to judge harshly, but I think there’s a real issue.”
“Just be careful,” said Marilyn.
Frustrated, Misty went back to straighten her classroom.
###
On the way home, Misty told Hazel about her conversation with the principal.
“I’d heard he was difficult, but regardless, he knows if we suspect physical abuse, we’re required by law to report it. You didn’t see any bruises on the boy, did you?”
Misty shook her head. “I’ll keep watch for it, though.”
“How were the other kids?” Hazel asked.
“Adorable. How about yours?” Misty asked her.
“A good group, but large,” said Hazel. “I’m glad I have a TA. There are a couple of troublemakers, but my TA and I have already told them that’s not allowed in our class.”
“It’s nice you have a TA. But with my class, I’ll be fine,” said Misty.
“I’ll need all the help I can get. For some reason, the third-grade classes are much larger than some others,” said Hazel. “I’m too tired to go to Jake’s, but there are a couple of guys I want to get to know better.”
“Want to talk about it?” asked Misty, giving her a teasing smile.
“Not yet,” said Hazel, laughing.
###
Misty came home, exhausted. Thinking she’d rest for a moment, she sat on the couch, mentally reviewing everything she needed to do the next day. She was startled awake sometime later when the chime of her cell tugged her awake.Crystal.
“I know it’s the first day of school, but why don’t you come over to say hello to Emmett’s mother?”
Misty knew from the anxious tone in Crystal’s voice that she wanted help. Natalie Chamberlain had been a first-class snob before she’d sobered up, but even now, Crystal was still a little intimidated by her.
Sighing with regret, Misty said, “I wish I could, but I’m afraid I’ll fall back to sleep on the way over. I’m exhausted. The first few days of school are physically and mentally grueling. I’ll come over tomorrow after I have a power nap. I promise.”
“Okay, I’ll see you tomorrow. Talk to you later,” said Crystal.
Misty ended the call, grateful for Crystal’s understanding. Many people had no idea teaching was a difficult job.
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