Chapter 126

• Nathalie observed a few stunned expressions amongst the crowd, though it was evident that most individuals were already in the loop. Elise's cheeks flushed with color as she leaned in to whisper something to Ethan, who shook his head at her, offering Nathalie a reassuring smile in return. Several mothers glanced her way, whispering behind their hands, and Nathalie felt as if she were in a scene from the movie *Mean Girls*. They were adults, after all.
• "I know that it may not be ideal for a teacher to be in a relationship with a parent," Nathalie continued, eager to expedite the proceedings. "When I met Ethan, I had no idea he was the father of one of the children in my class, and I wasn't even teaching here at the time. Regardless, that's not what matters. I understand your concerns about favoritism—that I might take Rosie's side during arguments, give her leads in school plays, or allow her to get away with behavior I wouldn't tolerate from other students."
• Gracie's mother nodded in agreement, whispering something to Mallory, who then snickered. "Idiots," Nathalie thought, her irritation simmering just below the surface.