Page 16 of Faultlines

“What kind of comment?”

She pauses. “Apparently, another student told Ellie that if Claire cared about her, she’d come to her events once in a while.”

I want to look away and lean closer at the same time. Brooke watches my reaction.

“The student, not very observant, likely heard Ellie tell Mona about her mom’s frequent absence. Anyway, Ellie and the student argued, and things escalated from there.”

Despite the situation, a tiny smile tugs at the corner of my mouth.

“You shouldn’t look so proud,” she tells me while her lips twitch.

I smirk. “I’m trying not to.”

She smiles as she touches the top of Ellie’s file. “Unfortunately, there are consequences.”

I already know I won’t like whatever comes next. “What kind of consequence?”

“A three-day suspension.”

“Three days?”

She nods. “The district has a zero-tolerance policy regarding physical altercations.”

“Even though the other kid was the one who started it?”

“Despite the other kid being the instigator,” she confirms with a nod.

Ellie is going to lose her mind. And truly? I’m not thrilled either.

Brooke softens her voice. “For what it’s worth, Ethan, every teacher involved advocated for a lighter punishment.”

“That’s good,” I nod.

“Absolutely. I wasn’t joking when I said Ellie is one of my favorite students. She’s bright and her grades are excellent. She generally has a warm rapport with everyone.”

I feel an immediate rush of relief. “She’s done nothing like this before,” I say, more to myself.

“Exactly. That’s one reason everyone was so shocked.”

“Claire is going to blame herself for how busy she’s been lately.”

Something flickers across her face—concern, understanding, or maybe both.

“Speaking of Ellie—” and I predict her next words. “The summer drama program.” Her grin confirms it. “I hear you’re volunteering.” She states it as a fact, not a question.

I run my hands through my hair. “News travels fast.”

“We’re a school. Gossip is our primary source of renewable energy.”

That earns a genuine laugh. She has a direct sense of humor that makes conversation feel effortless. There’s no hidden meaning, no history to navigate. It’s just... easy. And I realize how long it’s been since anything felt easy.

“I agreed to help. Claire is usually the one involved in school activities. But she’s currently swamped with work issues.”

“I’m thrilled you agreed to volunteer your time.”

“Minimally,” I reply.

Her smile widens. “Define minimally?”