the students hurried out. It was a Friday, so she was sure they were all going home to get ready for whatever big party was happening on campus tonight. Claire rolled her eyes. "You did a great job, today, Claire," Ms. Vandermark said as she came out from behind the screen. "Thanks, Mrs. Vandermark." The teacher tsked softly. "I’ve told you to call me Lily," she said, pursing her lips. Claire couldn’t help the sheepish smile. "Yes, Lily." "You want me to wait for you?" Claire saw her eyes darting to her desk, where a picture of her and her handsome husband sat. "No, you go on home. I know you have plans tonight," she teased. "I’ll lock everything up for you, okay?" "Thanks, Claire. You’re a doll." She ruffled Claire’s long coffee-colored hair and