Page 5 of Between the Lines

So why are you keeping her out of your class?

Luna

(She’s trying to keep cool, but he’s grating her now.)

I’d never actually not accept her into class. We have to make it sound serious so the parents will take it seriously.

Silas

So you’re wasting my time.

Luna’s whole expression transforms. He’s struck the last nerve. She makes sure Shannon is still distracted before she speaks.

Luna

If you feel that making sure Shannon is okay is a waste of your time, the problem is much deeper than I thought.

Silas

That’s not the waste—this is. This shit couldn’t have been an email?

Luna

Like all the ones that have gone ignored? And if we want to talk about wasted time, let’s talk about her getting to school well after she’s supposed to, hungry. Let’s talk about me combing her hair for her so she doesn’t get teased. Let’s talk about me having to make lunch accommodations for her so she can eat, since no one else bothered. Now, like I said—she is the sweetest child, always so grateful. I’ll never let her slip through the cracks if I can help it, but I need to know if she’s getting the same energy from home or not.

Silas

(Shocked. This is all new to him.)

Wait—what? All of that has been happening?

Luna

Crossed arms.

Really? I emailed.

Silas

(Sighs. He knows he’s messed up.)

Look—I think we got off on the wrong foot.

Luna

Well, no shit, Sherlock.

Eyes wide. Lips tight. She did not mean to say that out loud.

Silas

(Amused)

Yeah, you said that.

Luna

I’m so sorry.

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