But his gut told him this wasn’t about chores.
The next morning, John watched her more closely. Emily climbed the bus steps slowly. No smile. No spark in her eyes. She sat in her usual seat and pressed her forehead lightly against the window.
Halfway through the route, he noticed something new.
She flinched.
It was small. Almost invisible. But when one of the older boys laughed loudly behind her, she tensed up like someone expecting to be hit.
John’s jaw tightened.
After the morning drop-off, he didn’t wait. He walked straight into the school office and asked to speak with the principal and the guidance counselor. He handed them the note without a word.
Within an hour, Emily was gently called out of class.
The counselor spoke softly. Patiently.
At first, Emily said nothing.
