Principal Alvarez stood beside her desk.
She was a woman in her early fifties with silver-streaked hair and a calm expression. When she saw Clara, she came around the desk and knelt so they were at eye level.
“Good morning, Clara. I’m glad you’re here.”
Clara gave a cautious nod.
“I’ve heard that Scout is joining us this morning,” Principal Alvarez continued. “Would it be all right if I said hello?”
Clara glanced at Ben.
Ben nodded.
Scout approached at a measured pace. Principal Alvarez offered the back of her hand. Scout sniffed it, then sat.
The principal’s face softened.
“He’s beautiful.”
“He knows,” Ben said.
Scout’s ears shifted toward him.
For a moment, the tension in the room eased.
Then Principal Alvarez gestured toward the conference table.
“Let’s sit down.”
Clara stayed between her parents. Ms. Harrow sat across from them, with Principal Alvarez at the head.
The teacher looked at Clara.
“I want to say something before we begin.”
Clara’s shoulders rose.
