Chapter 289
“Mrs Collins, Adam really should have been here today. If he keeps missing these important activities, how is he ever going to build a meaningful bond with Adir? I do understand that his career demands a lot of his time and attention, but he has a responsibility towards the child as well—one that can’t be set aside so easily. This is the second activity in a row that he’s missed, and that’s starting to become a pattern.” Melody continued in a rough tone as she stared at Melanie.
For some reason, Melanie had been the one who had been doing the pick up and the drops since Adam had dropped her off outside her home. And she, was yearning to see him again. Last week, when she had been informed that Melanie had been hurt, she had thought that this time he himself would have to come pick Adir.
But instead, Adir had been taken to him by the principal herself and then later, not come to the school. And then, it had been only Melanie coming by. So, she did not stop this time and spoke a bit harshly as she looked at Melanie! Dam* it! She did not want to see her. She wanted to see and talk to Adam.
Having said her words, she stood up and was ready to leave when Melanie answered in a cold voice, “I understand your concern, Miss Melody. However, I was in the hospital last week, which is why Adir wasn’t present at school either. Adam had to step out briefly for work today, but he’s been spending meaningful, focused time with Adir. They’ve had a lot of one-on-one interaction since Adir has coem to live with us.”
“Also, I’d like to point out that the activity sign-up sheet was entirely voluntary. It wasn’t a requirement, and no one was obligated to participate. Families have different ways of bonding-some of which don’t necessarily need to happen in public view.”
Melody froze at the last line. “Some of which don’t necessarily need to happen in public view.” The words rang in her ears with a sharpness she didn’t appreciate. Her jaw tightened as she slowly turned back, her eyes narrowing just slightly as she answered back in a clipped voice, Well, even if it is voluntary, it’s still important. These events are designed to help children feel seen and supported in front of their peers. They’re opportunities to build not just personal connections but a sense of community. When a parent doesn’t show up-voluntary or not-the child feels it. Especially in the case of Adir who…”
But Melanie was in no mood for a lecture as she interrupted, “And yet Adir has been doing just fine. He knows he’s supported. He doesn’t need validation from an audience to feel loved.”
Melody let out a quiet laugh, “That’s a very… convenient perspective. But not every child is so detached. Some children benefit from their parents being present, not just promising they were there in spirit.”
Melanie stilled then and said slowly, “I wouldn’t expect you to understand the full picture, Miss Melody. You see a glimpse-a fraction-and you think it tells you the whole story. It doesn’t. As for promising to be there in spirit, Adir received no such promises. Adam had always fulfilled what he has promised. You do not have to worry about that.
“I just care about the child, Mrs. Collins. That’s all.” Melody snapped back.
“Do you?” Melanie asked, her tone dangerously even. “Because from where I stand, it seems you care far more about who brings him to school and who picks him up, than about how he’s actually doing.”
There was a long silence.
Melody blinked, and was about to say something but Melanie did not give her a chance,” If you’re truly concerned about Adir’s well-being, I suggest we speak about it during the parent-teacher meeting scheduled for next week. And I would expect to see a report from the school councillor saying that Adir has indeed been affected by the few missed session of these activities or if he even remembers them. Otherwise, let’s not turn these things into discussions, wasting your time and mine.”
Melody nodded stiffly, picking up her clipboard without another word. But her face was flushed, and her hands shook just slightly as she turned away. “Fine. I will see you next time, Mrs Collins.”
She watched Melanie walk away and struggled to keep calm. Why? Why did this woman have to be so composed and untouchable? Fine, she needed the school councillor to vouch for the importance of the activities in relation to Adir? She would get that.
Her mind made up, Melody walked back towards the staff room, intent on finding the councillor. She will definitely schedule a consultation for Adir for next week and have the councillor write down the report.
But as she reached the entrance to the staff room, she stopped in her tracks. Because standing there, holding Adir’s hand in hers, was Melanie Collins, chatting casually with the school’s principal.
She gritted her teeth. Did she already go to the principal, demanding the report? She grimaced. So what? If Melanie wanted to play dirty, she was willing to do that as well.
Melody took a deep breath and walked towards the principal with a calm smile,”Good afternoon, Mrs Davies.”
The principal turned around and Melody felt her own smile fade from her face as she watched the principal look at her and then at Melody before she remarked,” My! You two really look like sisters. I’ve heard the other teachers mention about this but I thought it was just passing the time. But this is remarkable.”
Melody felt her face freeze. She had forgotten about Melanie being her look alike. And now that the lady had reminded her…suddenly everything felt too awkward.
She gave the woman an odd smile and tried to think of something to say but found herself to have no words. However, she didn’t have to say anything as Melanie spoke up,”I would have thought the same. Unfortunately, my parents passed away soon after I was born, so I have no sister.”
Melody’s head whipped around at that. Melanie still didnt know the truth?
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