Before he could argue, Francie winked at him and said, “No, my dear, we’re doing this for your own self. And I don’t hear Ezreal complaining.”
“My ex-husband is violently jealous. I could be putting Ezreal in danger.”
“That’s what Bill’s for.” Francie pointed to the sofa. “Now why don’t y’all sit down and hear what he has to say.”
“I know Ez has been working with you to build a music room for a program you’re starting for underprivileged children,” Bill said when they were seated again.
Sara nodded, her expression tight, like she was expecting bad news.
“Wait,” Darius asked. “What does that have to do with anything?”
“Publicity,” Rafe said, and Ahri gave a soft groan.
“Even without Ezreal’s involvement,” Bill said, “there’s a good chance the local news would want to showcase a program like hers for one of their ‘feel good’ spots. With that comes the risk the story could get picked up by a national news outlet. Can you imagine Mrs. Fortune being invited to do one of the early morning news shows?”
“You’re saying I shouldn’t do it.” Sara’s tone had gone flat, almost dead. Ezreal started considering other ways to do the program.
“I’m sorry,” Bill said, “but yes.”
“Is this temporary?”
“Temporary is relative,” Bill said. “It depends on how long you need to keep your ex from finding you.”
“Couldn’t she get a restraining order?” Darius asked.
“They only work if the person being restrained will honor them.” Alex shook his head. “There have been a few problems with them on campus over the years.”
“And wouldn’t the guy have to be notified of it?” Ezreal asked. “That would just hand her location to him.”
“It was just a thought.” Darius frowned, looking thoughtful.
“But what if the program’s not in her name?” Ezreal asked. “We could create a charity that doesn’t list her. If it catches the interest of the news, someone else can be the public face.”
“But wouldn’t she be the head teacher?” Rafe asked. “How do we protect her from being identified there.”
When Sara leaned back, seemingly deflated by the question, Ezreal brought their clasped hands to his lips and kissed hers.
“I know this is important to you. We’ll figure something out.”
“Of course we will,” Francie said.
“Out of curiosity, whyisthis so important to you?” Rafe asked.
“I had to teach myself how to read music and play the piano.” Sara heaved out a breath. “My father wouldn’t pay for lessons, much less buy a keyboard.”
“Then what did you learn on?” Ahri asked.
“At first, I used a paper keyboard.” Sara gave Darius a wan smile. “That’s why I love the ones you painted on the walls so much. I drew one like it inside my closet so my clothes hid it. Then in middle school, a new neighbor took me under her wing. It was through her that I was able to do a few things. I had to be sneaky because my father is very controlling. He wouldn't let me do after-school sports or anything like that. It’s why this is important for me. I want to make sure other kids who are being denied these opportunities have some access to them. It’s more likely to be finances than a controlling parent, but a lack of money still limits what the children can do. And,” she added, rubbing her temple, “I’m tired of being a victim.”
“Would you like me to have my staff look into the charity?” Ezreal asked, shifting to face her. “Kayn’s working on a bucket-list charity that he’s bugging Darius to take over. I’ve mentioned before that I have an endowment already that’s been helping with the remodel. No one would question me wanting to set up a music program for kids.”
“You’d do this for me?” she asked, a touch of wonder in her voice.
“I’d do anything for you,” Ezreal said simply.
Bill coughed, and Ezreal glanced at the others to find them all watching him with approving smiles.
