Other students and parents followed soon after, leaving Annika so busy and energized there just wasn’t room for butterflies.

The buzz of animated children filled her classroom, with only two of them so far having shed any tears. With a few minutes left in drop-off, Annika turned for a moment to observe the members of her class who were there. A small group had gathered around the books, another couple had pulled out blocks to play with and others were simply coloring quietly.

“Ah. Excuse me?” a male voice called from the door.

Annika walked over and addressed the child who stood with the man. “Good morning, Mitch. Do you remember me?”

Large brown eyes looked up at her, a small, shy smile breaking through on Mitch’s face. Annika turned her attention to the man with him. “Hi, I’m Ms. Mehta.” She extended her hand. “I don’t believe we met at orientation.”

The man stiffened, merely glancing at her hand. “Are you the teacher?”

Annika smiled, keeping her hand extended. “Yes, I am.”

He looked around and behind her, his brow furrowed and a small frown forming at his mouth. “There’s no one else here?”

Annika pressed her lips together and forced the smile to stay put. Here it was. The typical No way you’re old enough to teach. Good skin and genetics were a blessing and a curse. Hopefully, she’d still look young when she was fifty.

“No need. I’m the teacher. Annika Mehta. I’m new, but completely qualified.” She laughed. “I can assure you, they won’t let just anyone teach here.”

The man stared at her extended hand, then looked at her, his eyes hardening. “Clearly, that’s not true. Seems they’ll let anyone teach.”

Confused, Annika dropped her hand. “I’m sorry?” She paused. “I only look young. This is my first classroom on my own, but I have done extensive training—”

The man scoffed. “It’s not your age.” He nudged his son forward, narrowing his eyes, a scowl settling in on his face. “Go on, now, Mitch. Your mother will get you later.”

Mitch ran to the cubbies, and his father turned on his heel and headed out the door. Annika stood frozen to her spot. Not her age? He couldn’t possibly have meant... No, that didn’t happen. Not in this day and age. Not to her.