Okay, I can’t deny that Lilly is making a great impression. She has a positive energy that’s been missing from our administration. Ms. Lewis is an excellent leader, but we’re overdue for a fresh view on how things are run at Eastern Lake.
“What made you decide to come to our school,” Kelsey asks.
Ah, that’s the burning question.
“I do my research,” Lilly says. “Eastern Lake has the best rating in the county. I was looking for a new home, and I immediately knew this school was the right fit for me.”
Naturally my eyes shift to Cam, even though Lilly would never admit if he had anything to do with the reason she applied here. And our school does have the best rating in the area, so her reasons are valid.
“Well, you picked the right place,” Kelsey says. “We’re so happy to have you here.”
“I appreciate it,” Lilly says. “Everyone has been so welcoming. I know this is the place I’m meant to be, for so many reasons.”
Kelsey and Lilly continue chatting before Kelsey leaves to get her students. In her absence, Cam, Lilly and I are left sitting around the faculty room table. We’re all quiet for a few seconds until Lilly starts talking again. I have a feeling she doesn’t stay silent for long either.
“I’m so impressed with the plans for the event,” she says. “I’m looking forward to seeing what everyone comes up with.”
Ah…perfect timing. I’m so glad I finally decided on our class project.
“Now we just need to give Cam a job at the event,” she says with a grin.
“I already have a job,” he retorts. “Ms. Lewis has specific tasks she puts me in charge of every year.”
Lilly rolls her eyes. “Cam’s a bit grumpy now that I’m here.”
“Actually, I’m not,” he says flatly. “I was just letting you know Ms. Lewis and I have already discussed it. You can talk to her if you have questions.”
“Maybe I will,” Lilly replies.
Cam glares at her. Meanwhile I feel like I should leave because third wheeling isn’t my thing.
“I have to get back to the gym,” Cam says, rising to his feet.
“Talk to you later, Serena,” he says, patting me on the shoulder before he leaves the lounge.
Of course I’m thrilled by his gesture. Isn’t it the little things that matter most?
Lilly sighs. “Sorry about that. I’m sure you’ve heard Cam and I go way back. I almost didn’t take the job here because of it, but it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.”
“I heard something about it,” I say. “You’ll find out that information spreads rather quickly around here.”
She waves her hand nonchalantly. “I think that happens in all schools. I’ve learned to ignore the gossip.”
“That’s smart,” I say. “Ms. Lewis likes her staff to get along and quickly resolve conflicts.”
“She told me that for the most part the staff gets along well,” Lilly says. “Of course, there will always be some issues, but thankfully they are minor.”
“It’s an awesome place to work.”
She nods. “Cam and I can easily coexist in the same school together.”
Is there a reason she’s talking to me about this? Speaking of gossip, maybe she’s heard Cam and I have been spending time together.
“That’s good.”
I’m not sure what else to say. Part of me wonders if she’s fishing for information or wants me to ask all the questions about her past with Cam.
Admittedly, there’s a part of me that wants to ask her.