Page 135 of Temporary Vows

Oh Lord, please don’t let her think I’ve been mopping around the school. Although I’ve been trying to act like my usual self, it’s been hard.

Mrs. Bennell and I have never had a problem in all the years we’ve worked together. She handpicked me during my training because she liked my spark. I would hate to disappoint her in any way.

“Please don’t look so worried.” She holds up both hands and smiles.

My cheeks flush. “I’m sorry. It’s every day I see you, and this early.”

She chuckles again. “It’s all good news. And I’m in early today because of the new reporting system. It’s a pain in the ass.”

We both laugh.

“I can’t disagree.” I sigh, now eager to hear what good news she has to tell me. I could do with something to give a boost. Even a small one.

“So, the good news.” She pulls in a breath and a spark comes into her eyes.

“What is it?” I can’t hide the excitement in my voice.

“Linda Barker just handed in her retirement notice. It’ll be for the end of next year.” Her smile brightens. “I wanted you to consider taking her place as the new assistant head of the English department.”

My heart jumps in my throat and does a somersault. I’m so stunned I stand and press a hand to my chest. “What?Me?”

“Oh don’t look so surprised, Elodie. Like I said you are one of the most dedicated teachers here. And if I might add way,waybeyond your years. I wouldn’t normally consider someone so young, but your expertise in classical literature are second to none. I couldn’t think of anyone better than you.”

I release the breath I’ve been holding in a gasp and shake my hands. “Oh my God, this is the best news ever.”

“I’m so glad you think so. And I hope that’s a yes.”

“Yes, absolutely yes.” I give a little hop and she laughs.

The assistant head position was my next career goal. But I thought I’d reach it in a few years as I got more teaching experience. At twenty-five years old, this is a massive accomplishment.

“Wonderful. I’m more than happy. Linda will start training you from next month. There will be some adjustment to the schedule to accommodate that, but it shouldn’t be too different.”

“That’s perfectly fine. I’m okay with that.” It was the least.

“Even better.”

“Thank you. Thank you so much. Ands thanks for coming to see me.”

“Of course.” She dips her head. “That’s the kind of news you want to deliver personally. And confession, I was actually prepared to beg you to take the role.”

My eyes snap wide. “What? Why? It’s a no brainer.”

She shoots me a wistful smile. “You just got married. To a billionaire nonetheless. Nobody expected you to come back to work.”

My skin warms at the mention of my marriage. And I’m thinking of my husband again. “I love my job. I was definitely going to come back.”

A newfound respect enters her eyes. “That’s real admirable. I’m glad to hear we’ll still have you on board.”

“Thank you.”

“You are so welcome. Now do me a favor.”

“Anything.” I giggle.

“Please try to have life outside the walls of this school.” She gives me a pointed stare. The kind she reserves for committee meetings and parent’s evening. “I don’t want you to burn out by overworking—because you will.”

“I hear you.”