Page 83 of Power
“Miss Maxwell, this is Justin Smith, the principal.”
I’m confused because I’ve already cleared with them that Tash will be picking Emily up. “I’ve already given my permission for Tash to take Emily out of school.”
“Yes, that’s not what I’m calling for,” he says in his snooty, stuck-up voice.
“How can I help you?”
“I’m afraid Emily won’t be able to return to the school.”
“What? Why?”
He clears his throat. “This is a school that has an elevated standard of prestige and class, and you didn’t disclose your...occupation to us when you enrolled Emily. We don’t condone or support people who are flamboyant.”
“Are you saying that Emily has been a problem student?”
“No, Miss Maxwell, this is solely based on you and your lifestyle choices.”
“You’re right, Emily doesn’t belong somewhere with a principal who is so self-righteous. Must be nice to sit on your throne of lies.” I smirk at the dig. “I’m sure your wife knows all about your...” I pause for dramatic effect. “Lifestyle choices.”
“Miss Maxwell,” his voice suddenly escalates.
“Thank you.” I press the end call button on the screen. “Fucking hypocrite.” He must not recall the time he tried to pick me up when I was at a dinner with a client. He slid into the available seat beside me while I was at the bar and tried to give me his number. He looked me dead in the eyes and asked if I’d care to join him and his male companion for drinks, or more.
I drive in a daze, not sure where I’m going or what else life is about to throw at me. My phone rings, and I groan as I look at the number. “You’ve got her?” I ask Tash.
“Yeah, she’s sleepy, but I have her.”
“Mommy, are you okay?” Emily asks.
I smile with relief when I hear Emily’s sweet voice, I’m so glad Tash has her. “Yeah, I’m okay. But, in the morning we need to have a conversation.”
“Alright.”
“Tash,” I say.
“Yeah?”
“Do you mind if Emily and I crash at your place for the night.”
“Why are you even asking? Of course, that’s fine.”
“Thank you.”
“Love you, Mom.”
“Love you too, sweetie.” I hang up and rest my head back on the seat as I drive toward Tash’s house. Once I arrive, I drive past her house once, then park down the street a safe distance away. I’m too wired to fall asleep, so I keep an eye on any cars that drive down here. I’m grateful when she pulls up to her house. I start the car and drive toward her. Tash motions for me to put my car in the garage, and she parks on the driveway. “Thank you for doing this.” Emily is asleep on the front seat, so I quietly open the door, release her seat belt and carry her into Tash’s house.
“Put her in the guest room,” Tash says.
I carefully lay Emily on the bed, take off her shoes and place the covers over her. When I walk out into the family room, Tash already has the hard liquor out. I slump down into the chair and let out a long breath. “I don’t know what I’m going to do, Tash.”
“Look, you can stay here for as long as you like.”
“No, we can’t. The press will eventually figure out where you live, and they’ll be here and at the bookstore harassing you.”
“Don’t worry about me. I can look after myself. Have you got any idea who would’ve leaked this?” I shake my head slowly, pick up the glass with the liquor and throw it back. “If you’re more comfortable, I can move to your house and you can stay here.”
“Why would I do that, Tash?”
