Dear Ex-wife Marry Me by Twin Bridge

When Zoey arrived at the preschool the next day, something felt off. The glances from her colleagues were laced with disdain. She had barely sat down when a kind soul next to her leaned in to whisper, "Ms. March, you might want to clear the air. Gemma's been saying you've hooked up with some rich guy and won't be coming back to teach."

Zoey froze, suddenly remembering her unfortunate run-in with Gemma at the hospital. Back then, Gemma had hurled insults at her, but Zoey was too panicked to really listen. Gemma, whose father held a minor city council position in Zion City, had grown up fearless and entitled. And when it came to men, she was incredibly picky, often boasting about her desire to marry into wealth. But Zion City was small potatoes compared to Greenfield.

Gemma had set her sights on Fitch, determined to win him over. Seeing Zoey and Fitch together at the hospital had made Gemma livid, convinced Zoey was following Fitch. The thought of Zoey, who usually seemed so aloof, chasing after a wealthy man infuriated her even more when she learned Nolan had been moved to Zoey's class. Because Zoey was absent yesterday, Gemma spread rumors that Zoey had snagged a rich boyfriend and was seen at a gynecologist's office.

The preschool staff, mostly women who loved to gossip, quickly spread the word. Zoey understood the hostile reception she had received that morning. She immediately confronted Gemma, who was in the middle of spreading the rumor even further.

"I saw it with my own eyes; she's totally played out. And now she's trying to snag Mr. Haskins, as if he'd be interested in someone like her. She thinks her family's minor savings are impressive, but that's nothing compared to Mr. Haskins' daily interest earnings."

The other teachers turned away when Zoey approached, but Gemma, oblivious, kept ranting. Zoey couldn't take it anymore and snapped, "Apologize."

Nolan ends up

at a dinner once. I've been nice, not making a big deal out of your attitude, but really, who do you think you

The slap was

I'll make sure you can't stay at this

other teachers, worried about the feud and Gemma's family's influence, tried to intervene. "Ms. March, why did you have to go that

family has connections in Greenfield too, you know. Don't think I'll let this slide!" She stormed out, slamming the door behind

fell silent, with some trying to persuade Zoey

Gemma's not bluffing

They don't usually