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.
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.
A gasp rippled through the room.
One child cried out. Another turned away.
Lily’s sobs turned desperate.
Something deep inside Leonard broke.
A Father Steps In
Every head snapped toward him.
Mrs. Aldridge froze, then slowly straightened. The color drained from her face as recognition dawned.
“Mr. Hayes,” she stammered. “I didn’t realize you were here.”
“You’re standing over a crying child,” Leonard said, his voice shaking with controlled fury. “My child.”
Lily leapt from her seat and wrapped herself around his legs, sobbing into his suit jacket. Leonard dropped to one knee instantly, pulling her into his arms and holding her close.
“It’s okay,” he whispered, his voice breaking despite his effort to stay calm. “Daddy’s here.”
Her small body trembled against him.
The Adults Arrive
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