Ian was grading papers, a normal occurrence during his planning period. He was interrupted by Barbara Wright the history teacher next door. "Hello Ian, I was wondering if you had a Susan Foreman in any of your classes?"
Ian put his pen down and regarded Barbara, "Yes she wasn't here today, why?"
Barbara sighed and took a seat next to him. "She's been missing for a week. No warning, no Doctor's note or phone call. They've called the home number but, no response. I was worried is all."
Ian loved Barbara's concern for her students and tried not to smile."I'm sure she'll turn up sooner or later. She could have that bad cold that's going around." He put his hand on hers trying his best to comfort her.
Barbara absentmindedly stroked his fingers. "Why yes, I suppose you're right Ian I just worry is all."
Ian gave her hand a squeeze, "It's alright to worry Barbara. I worry too everyone does" He smiled at her and grazed her hand with his thumb. "It shows that you care."