Page 76 of Cause and Effect

My office door opened and pulled me from my thoughts.

“Hey. How did it go with the judge?” Roman asked.

“He granted the motion to dismiss me from the case.” I sat behind my desk.

“Good. I’m sorry, Julian.”

“Don’t be. It is what it is.”

Laurel

Before picking up the girls, I arrived at the school early, parked the car, climbed out, and walked around, staring at the other side of the fence where the playground was, looking to see if a man was lurking around. Turning around, I noticed a camera facing the playground.

Walking into the school, I was immediately stopped by the security guard.

“Can I help you?” he asked.

“I’m Laurel Evans, and I need to speak with the principal regarding an incident.”

“Sure. The office is right there.”

“Thank you.” I smiled.

I asked to see Principal Wiley and sat in the chair while waiting for him.

“Ms. Evans, come in.” His door opened. “What can I do for you?”

“Sophie told me she saw a man hanging around on the other side of the playground fence. He was staring at the children.”

“And when was this?” he asked.

“I believe the other day.”

“We do have teachers outside with the children, and noone has reported seeing a man around the playground, but I’ll check into it.”

“I saw you have cameras facing the playground. Would you mind if I took a look?”

“Unfortunately, Ms. Evans, I can’t allow that. But I will look at the footage and get back to you.”

This man was getting on my nerves.

“Okay. Thank you, Principal Wiley.” I stood and walked out of his office.

Heading to my car, I leaned against it and waited for the school bell to ring. Once the girls emerged from school, we all climbed into the car.

“How was school today?” I smiled.

“Good,” all three of them replied.

“I like you picking us up.” Stella smiled.

“Me too, baby. I do have to take you back to the firm with me for a bit.”

“Will Julian be there?” Sara asked.

“He should be.”

“We like him, Mom,” Sophie said.

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