Page 33 of Rhythm Of Redemption

Recalling Logan’s story about how he’d been bullied by his teacher to the point of wetting himself in class, sent waves of anger surging through her. She sprang to her feet, her voice trembling with fury. “Is that what you think teaching is? Crushing the spirits of your students? Stripping them of their individuality and forcing them into your predetermined mould?”

The head also rose, her tone icy. “I think it's best if you leave before you say something you'll regret.”

“Don't worry, I'm going. And just so you know, the only thing I regret is leaving my daughter in this school, under the guidance of someone like you. And don’t bother going to the trouble of expelling Dani, because as of this moment, she's no longer a student in this factory of conformity you call a school.” Lou's words hung in the air, a final declaration of her decision.

Lou's heart pounded in her chest as she crossed the car park towards her car. How could that woman have the audacity to call herself a teacher? She leaned against her vehicle, spreading her feet apart and placing her hands on her hips, seeking stability. It felt as if she were an inside-out balloon, depleted of all air and tossed around a desolate dust bowl. The bitter old hag.

Ignoring the persistent ringing of her mobile, she refused to give in. If that woman expected an apology, she had another thing coming. Standing tall, Lou took a deep breath, allowing the scent of the ocean to fill her lungs, and exhaled, releasing the negativity along with her breath.

Finally succumbing to curiosity and frustration, she leaned into the car and grabbed her phone. “What?”

“Mum?”

“Dani.” She rubbed her palm across her forehead. “Is everything okay?”

“I was going to ask you the same question.”

If that old bag had contacted Dani, then … well, she couldn't be held responsible for her actions. “What do you mean?”

“Sofia called me and said she saw you at the school.”

Lou remained silent, not wanting to reveal too much or say anything that might upset Dani. She wasn't particularly proud of her outburst, even though the head had deserved to hear the truth. However, she knew she could have handled the situation better.

“She mentioned a confrontation … between you and the head.”

Oh god, please don't say everyone overheard.

“She said everyone's talking about it. Is it true?”

“Look, I'll be home in ten minutes, and we'll discuss it then.”

“But Mum …”

“Wait until I get home.”

Navigating the winding roads that curved around the hillside, Lou's mind raced, trying to piece together what she would say to her daughter. The morning had begun with a promising sense of optimism, only to be swiftly derailed by the unforeseen visit by Detective Russell and the subsequent clash with Mrs Ellis. As a result, everything had descended into a whirlwind of disorder, leaving Lou feeling engulfed in a colossal mess of chaos and uncertainty.

As Lou steered her car into the courtyard, Dani stood there, her face reflecting the worry she felt inside. “What's happened? Is it Dad?” Dani's words elicited a visceral response, causing tension to ripple through Lou's body. Why did Dani assume that her emotional state was connected to her father? Although she bore him no ill will, the thought of never setting eyes on him again didn't bother her in the slightest. “No, it has nothing to do with your dad,” Lou responded firmly, hoping to dispel any misconceptions. She winced as Dani visibly relaxed. Despite his shortcomings as a father, Dani adored him, a sentiment he didn't deserve.

“I thought there might have been an accident or something,” Dani explained.

“Let's go inside. There are a few things I need to discuss with you,” Lou said, leading the way. Dani followed, grabbing a cold drink before settling at the table. She met Lou's gaze, anticipation filling her eyes. “They've expelled me, haven't they?”

“No, they haven't expelled you,” Lou reassured her.

“Then what is it?” Dani pressed.

“I've withdrawn you from that school,” Lou revealed.

Dani's eyes widened with incredulity. “What?”

“I-we believe it's best for you not to return,” Lou clarified.

“Why?” Dani questioned, seeking answers.

“Let's just say we had a difference of opinion,” Lou explained cryptically.

“So, I don't have to go back there?” Dani confirmed, a glimmer of hope in her voice.

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