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“Oh,That’s great” So why does it not feel so great, especially when I’d arrived in her office ready to hand in my notice, effective immediately? I can’t clai my replacement had become a priority

A bigger priority after what just happened on the stairs

“Yes, I interviewed her last week Not a face-to-face , but over the internet Her references were excellent, and I’ve just gotten off the phone with her last e”

“Well, that’s just great Really great I’ to be

“The only thing is she can’t start for teeks Do you think you’ll be able to carry on until then?”

“I” ah worries of her own? How can I tell her teeks’ notice is too et the kind of education not available at school? Dammit “Of course” I am so incredibly screwed “Yes, of course I can” I add what I hope is a bright smile as I blunder on, “but I’ on completely then”

“You mean, from the education centre?” Isla looks visibly shocked

“Yes” I guess I’ this “I’m sorry for the short notice, but I really feel it’s for the best”

“Things are?”

“Nothing has changed,” I say quietly, folding my hands in my lap “You can’t blame—it’s not just his fault” My words hit the air in staccato bursts and probably don’t h I findjust that as, a o,” I whisper, curling my hand around the box like it’s a life vest “I really can’t stay I know this is for the best”

“You don’tlike Sandy in that way?”