Lily.
His heart lurched. He pushed forward, gripping the lunch container so tightly his knuckles whitened. Parents know the sound of their child’s distress the way sailors know the sea. It needs no explanation.
A Moment No Child Should Endure
Lily sat stiffly at a table, her shoulders drawn inward, tears rolling down her cheeks. Her small hands were clenched together in front of her, as if she were trying to disappear.
Standing over her was Mrs. Aldridge, one of the school’s longest-serving teachers. She was known for being strict, traditional, and demanding. Many parents had described her as “old-fashioned,” though Leonard had never given it much thought until now.
In Mrs. Aldridge’s hand was Lily’s juice.
Leonard recognized it instantly. He packed the same brand for her every morning.
Her expression was tight and unyielding as she spoke sharply to Lily, loud enough for nearby children to hear. Lily’s sobs grew heavier, her entire body trembling.
And then it happened.
With a swift, deliberate motion, Mrs. Aldridge tipped the juice and poured it directly onto Lily’s lunch tray.
The liquid spread across her food, soaking everything Leonard had packed with care that morning.
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