I want Principal Simpson to make it perfectly clear.
“I’m glad he’s getting involved in his son’s education. As you said, it could be good for him.”
“It could.”
“However, let me be frank, Miss Vesper. You’re a pretty young lady. I could see why Mr. Wolfe would be interested in more than Heath’s schooling. Being involved with any parent here at Magnolia Elementary is strictly forbidden.”
“I don’t play favoritism, Mrs. Simpson.”
“I wouldn’t think so. However, we have policies in place to prevent such actions, and it’s in the best interest of our students and community.”
“Community,” I repeat with furrowed brows. “I’m confused.”
“The last thing we want is gossip about how you could be changing grades or?—”
“I’m a respected teacher, Mrs. Simpson,” I grind out. “I can assure you, my students get the grades they earned.”
“I don’t doubt it, Miss Vesper?—”
“But I was summoned into your office anyway.” I can’t help but glare at her. “I’m sorry, Mrs. Simpson, but I’m a bit insulted.”
She tsks and shakes her head as if I’m misunderstanding, but I’m not.
And I knew this.
I’m just not a fan of the policy, but I do understand that others may not follow the rules. It’s for the integrity of the students…not my love life.
“I can assure you, Miss Vesper, I’m not trying to insult you. I just have standards I have to abide by. I hope you can understand that I put the students’ education and best interests at the top of my priorities. It has nothing to do with your position. I think you’re wonderful.”
I give her a curt nod because I get it.
I get it, and I hate it.
It shouldn’t be this hard to accept this and be okay. Micah isn’t someone I’ve spent a lot of time with.
“I understand,” I mutter. “That’s what I want, too.”
“Good.” Principal Simpson lightly smacks a stack of files and dismisses the matter. “I’m glad we could have this talk. I appreciate you coming by.”
Like I had a choice.
Rising from my chair, I turn toward the door and don’t offer a goodbye.
I know it looks exactly how it is.
Micah Wolfe and I…we have something that isn’t a normal parent-teacher relationship.
It’s raw, unfiltered want and need.
8
MICAH
MICAH: So, I’m texting to get information and to see if this school dance is safe.
SIENNA: Safe?
SIENNA: Micah Wolfe, you know damn well that it’s safe.
