The school called. “Your daughter hasn’t been pick…

tone and correct procedure.

“Mr. Henderson,” the woman said. “This is Ms. Hail.”

The principal, then.

He nodded at me. “I’m glad you’re here. We were very worried about Lily.”

Lily.

The name meant nothing.

“I am not her mother,” I said.

My voice had started shaking badly enough that it embarrassed me. I could hear it happening and could not stop it.

“I’ve continue reading …