Chapter 11 - The New Beginning
Finding a new school for Emma wasn't a decision I took lightly.
After the nightmare at St. Jude’s, I refused to rely on glossy brochures, expensive tuition fees, or fancy reputations. This time, I personally vetted every single institution within a forty-mile radius, reviewing teacher credentials, school board transparency records, and parent-teacher feedback logs through my military intelligence contacts.
We finally settled on Oakridge Public Academy—a modest, well-funded community school nestled in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood.
On her first day, Emma stood by the kitchen island, adjusting the straps of her new star-patterned backpack. She looked nervous, her small fingers nervously twisting the fabric of her jacket.
I knelt down to eye level, placing both hands gently on her shoulders.
“How are you feeling, sweetheart?” I asked softly.
Emma looked down for a second, then back up into my eyes. “I’m a little scared, Daddy. What if... what if the teacher doesn't like math questions?”
“Listen to me,” I said, every word steady and reassuring. “At Oakridge, your teachers are there to help you learn, not to scare you. And if anyone ever makes you feel unsafe, you tell me immediately. No hesitation. Do you understand?”
She nodded, a small, brave smile touching her lips. “I understand, Daddy.”
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“Good. Let’s go launch your new mission.”
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