Chapter 2

This time, I wouldn't let her.

Before Tiffany could land her blow, I spoke, my voice calm, much calmer than I felt.

"Thank you for bringing up the workshops, Tiffany."

I addressed the parents. "These are optional, free sessions, open to every single student. They fully comply with all school guidelines."

I looked directly at Tiffany. "If anyone has specific concerns about fairness or procedure, my door is always open, or you can use the formal channels to address them."

A ripple of surprise went through the parents. Tiffany's mouth, slightly open, snapped shut.

She was furious. I could see it in the tightening of her jaw.

The meeting continued, but Tiffany's first shot had misfired.

Afterward, she followed me to my office. She didn't knock.

"You're just defensive because you're guilty!" she accused, her voice loud enough for the hallway to hear.

I turned from my desk. "Tiffany, I won't be baited into a public argument. If you have a constructive point, make it. Otherwise, these are baseless accusations."

Her eyes narrowed.

Then I remembered something else, a detail from my past life, a cruelty I'd overlooked.

"Speaking of fairness, Tiffany," I said, my voice steady. "Remember Mr. Harrison's AP History class last year? The major research project?"

She looked wary.

"You convinced the entire class to discard their research notes. You cited 'expert advice' on 'reducing pre-exam stress.'"

I continued, "Everyone's grades suffered. Except yours. You secretly kept your notes, didn't you? And got the top grade."

Tiffany flushed. "I was trying to help my peers! Reduce their anxiety!"

"But it didn't help, did it? It hurt them. Intentionally."

She stared at me, flustered, then turned and stormed out of my office, slamming the door.

A moment later, David Peterson, the history teacher and coach, appeared at my doorway.

"Sarah? You okay? That was... intense."

He looked concerned. "Be careful. Tiffany Hayes. Her father, Robert Hayes, on the school board... you know the influence."

I nodded. "I know, David. But I have to protect my students. This time, I will."

He gave a grim nod. "Just watch your back."