She sighs. “I did. We talked about it in the staff meeting this morning. There have already been calls into the office.”

My mouth drops. “I’m so sorry.”

Stacey shakes her head. “Don’t be. I can’t say we’ve ever been through this before, but we all want to keep Amelia safe. No one will be able to get near her who shouldn’t be.”

“Thank you.” I tear up.

She walks around the front desk and gives my bicep a squeeze. “The good thing about being in a small-knit community is that we all know each other. You and Amelia are family. And we take care of family.”

“Thank you.”

“I will call you myself if anything unusual happens. And until this settles down, we’ll keep a closer eye on her during breaks. Maybe pick her up from the office instead of the gate for a while. I’ll tell her to come here when the bell rings.”

“That’s a good idea. I really appreciate it.” I sniff.

“We all know the truth, and what was in that article was far from it. Amelia’s safe with us.”

I smile and nod.

“I’ve got to get to work. Thank you so much for everything.”

By the time I reach the car, I’m in tears. At least this time, it’s because of the kindness of others..

Pull yourself together, Delaney.

I take a deep breath and start the car. Work at least will keep me busy and hopefully keep my mind off everything else.

I’ll still worry about Melly, but she’s in good hands.

* * *

The day drags.

I’m a bit crampy all day, and my head hurts. I could go home, but being away meant Pania carried the load, and I need to make up for that.

The highlight of my day has to be the flowers and chocolate.

My phone buzzes.

Josh: Glad you got them. Sorry they couldn’t get there sooner. Hope the chocolate’s still of some use. Love you too. FaceTime me after school. I need to see you. xx

Damon walks in just after one and sits in his usual spot.

“What did you want today, Damon?”

He visibly shrinks when I address him. It’s so unlike him, and I spot it straight away. What the hell?

“That story wasn’t fair on you. I wanted you to know that.”

After a hugely emotional weekend, I blink back tears. Again. “Thank you.”

“I …” He gulps. “I thought that it would focus on how he abandoned you. Not paint you the way it did. I’m so sorry, Delaney.”

The floor falls out from underneath me.

“What did you say?”

He hesitates. “He’s not good enough for you. And I thought that article would be about him. You have to believe me.”

“They were your photos?” I croak.

Damon nods. “I sold them. You can have the money.”