"Listen, it's not just a reminder, it's a full stop."

The words came out with a domineering edge as Fitch closed the book in front of him with a gentle snap. His voice carried a threat that was unmistakable, "If Little Stars Preschool can't handle this, I can always take my investments back to Greenfield."

The principal's face went pale as a ghost. If Fitch pulled his funding over this, he'd be the town pariah of Zion City!

"Mr. Haskins, I will make sure Ms. March is stopped."

A brief moment of softness flickered in Fitch's eyes as he opened the door beside him.

"Also, we need to ban all these outsiders from wandering in. If just anyone can stroll in with a bunch of flowers, who's going to guarantee our kids' safety?"

The principal had been about to defend Henry, who had played his violin at the school before and was a friendly face with his fancy college degree and international education.

But sensing Mr. Haskins' animosity towards Henry, the principal quickly amended his stance.

"Right, I'll make sure to inform the security staff. From now on, no one but the school employees are allowed in."

The corner of Fitch's mouth twitched up ever so slightly, "And concerning Nolan, I'll leave that in your capable hands."

The principal mopped the sweat from his brow, "Of course, of course."

After Fitch left the office, he sneaked a glance into the classroom.

He stood in a concealed spot, out of Zoey's sight, but with a clear view of her.

Despite having steeled himself for this moment all night long, seeing her standing there, safe and sound, still gave him an eerie sense of unreality.

up a cigarette but remembered where he was and

the

the kids how to craft with their little hands when she felt an intense

and locked

first day, the girls in class

seemed incredibly shy, responding with monosyllables, which left

acknowledgment, and continued to keep to himself. With

a little voice piped up,

sweet, a

smiled and hurried over, squatting down

"I can't do this."

sorted out the paper strips he had stitched together, and

with excitement

March,

sincere praise from the child was indeed

she patted his

feeling good about it, you'll have to eat more veggies at lunch and not just pick out the

her hand back

that Nolan had

animals: one was

another resembled Tyler's current

was Rocky, the wolf king

the child's craftsmanship was far superior to

to make animals

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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