I know it's been a long time but work has been crazy. I've noticed that even though I haven't been posting anything, there is still support for my writing. So a big thank you to everyone who has reviewed, favourited, followed, messaged me, etc. It really does mean a lot and does get me motivated
Also, for anyone who is a Eva Pope fan here (I'm guessing most of you are), I watched route canal the other day. Cute film and absolutely killed me when she spat over the guy. For anyone who hasn't seen it, I highly recommend!
The crunching of the tarmac under the wheels was deafening. Almost painful. The bleak, clouded sky matched Rachel's mind as she struggled to pay attention. She had wanted to drive but she had already caught herself thrice drifting into a daydream. It was like watching the world pass by in the blink of an eye and realising minutes had passed. Still, Rachel believed she was doing the right thing. If she didn't believe it then what else did she have?
Fractured recollections of her time in hospital haunted her, flashing across her eyes as if it were presently happening. She could still hear the sound of the tape peeling from her skin. Even as she hadn't looked, she knew it would be grotesque. Rachel had glanced up at the doctor; Benjamin Patrick was a relatively attractive man. He had looked good from any angle and was always smartly dressed, polite, and ready for intellectual conversation. From where she had sat, she even knew he smelt good. Yet, he could not be equated to… She reminded herself it was best to not finish the sentence.
For someone who was such a distraction for her, she was more distracted by something else. Sobbing endlessly would have been her first action, if the doctor hadn't been observing her. Rachel was too proud. The mixture of red, pink, and purple, wrinkled from the bottom of her breast to the tip of her right collarbone. Over a month had passed since then and she had never gathered the courage to stare longer than a few seconds.
Passing into the school gates, she reminded herself to not think of the last time she was there. The last time she had passed through those gates, she hadn't even been conscious, unaware that she was leaving. Perhaps for the last time.
"No sign of infection. Good. I think we're getting there."
"When can I go back to work?"
The groups of students were more comforting than they realised. Rachel had needed some form of normality, to understand the difference between her nightmares and what was real. Her car slid down the drive leading into the carpark, the students taking no notice that she was driving behind them. Rachel gripped the steering wheel tightly without realising.
"The thing you have to understand with these kind of injuries, time really is the greatest healer. You should consider further skin grafts."
"No, I said no."
A tattered football tumbled past the front of her car. She nearly pressed the breaks firmly when Paul ran past with an apologetic glance, kicking the ball further up the field. His evident surprise at seeing her was best ignored, yet she hardly noticed, her stare seeing through him.
"It's the only way to repair the damage. Rachel, there really is no reason why you have to live with it."
"Well, I don't have the time. I have to get back."
Other students were peering into the window of her crawling car, realising who the driver was and whispering to each other. Among them, Rachel recognised Janeece and Maxine, arms forever linked. Steel couldn't dampen the sounds of laughter and shouting. It rang continuously in her ears, another sound of her nightmares. Taunting laughter.
"You're not physically ready to go back to work. Or mentally ready, in my opinion."
Near the front doors, numerous groups were dotted along the stairs. There wasn't a possibility that she could slip inside without passing someone. On a stone ledge, close to the parked cars, Karla was perched on top. She was waving awkwardly at Danielle and Aleesha who had noticed the silver Audi, exchanging a glance. The car had halted as close to the doors as possible.
"With the greatest respect, it's not your opinion that matters right now."
Whether it was subconscious or deliberate neglect of her mocking thoughts, Rachel knew she wanted to pass from the car to the door in little time. Her eyes were still staring ahead, despite the motions she had made to cut the engine and undo her seatbelt. Blinking, she could see the doors ahead of her, amidst the haze of smoke. How close she had been to leaving. Her hand reached out for the car door handle, gripping onto it for a second before opening the door.
Students flew past, shouting across to each other. A mass of noise and movement that she failed to comprehend. Inhaling shakily, she pulled her handbag further up her shoulder. The noises were reminiscent of the panic as the sound of the fire alarm pierced through the air. Even now, Rachel questioned if they were running from the school as their screams haunted her memory. Yet, she wasn't sure if the screams were hers.
Someone ran past, she couldn't see who. The force of their energy caused her to stumble back, almost losing her balance, and she looked down at the floor in confusion. Rachel didn't dare to move until she knew she felt steady. Her hair covered her face as a gust of wind breezed past. It may have seemed trivial but she could feel her mind burning with unseen chaos.
Holding her head upright, Rachel started toward the school. She could feel the stares of her students when she passed. They had every reason, she supposed, after everything that had passed. They no longer respected her. From nearby, Janeece and Maxine were whispering once more. Rachel flicked her fringe from her eyes, desperately clawing for any shred of dignity she had. Once she had passed, her mouth fell open with a relieved sigh, pushing open the doors into the front foyer.
Among the throng of students who brushed past her in close proximity, Rachel remained in the centre. Their touch went unnoticed as she stared ahead, unable to grasp the sight before her. If she were to look behind, she would have seen the place where she had lain unconscious, unfound for longer than was healthy. But her gaze stayed firmly ahead. Every person moved in a blur. Pausing, Rachel felt her grip tighten on her handbag, feeling the leather dig into her palms. The hair of her neck began to prickle and she felt the ghostly heat of flames licking at her back. As she tried to maintain some perspective on what was truly happening, Rachel knew she was covered in a cold sweat. Her breath was leaving in short bursts as her chest heaved for any air.
One, two, three, four, five…. Ten. The students slowed down once more, morphing from indistinctive blurs to an ordinary pace. Rachel peered around the foyer, her gaze falling only seconds on each thing, before seeing the clock. Several minutes had passed since she had entered. It had only seemed a minute.
Ambling through an empty corridor, Rachel was grateful to regain her breath. If she had been unable to recover earlier, she believed her professional stance would truly be tarnished.
Jumping at the sound of her ringing phone, she rummaged in her bag. The sight of the name was a relief to her. She couldn't deny the genuine smile when she heard a voice answer on the line.
"Your timing is spot on," she grinned. "I'm so glad you called… Well, I thought I was over the worst but… I'll be okay. No really. Just don't be late this afternoon. I think I'll be ready to see a friendly face by then. Okay?" She smiled again at the response. "Yeah, me too. Bye."
Placing the phone back into her bag, she rounded the corridor to find Grantly making his way to the staffroom. She was surprisingly pleased to see him.
"Morning, Grantly."
He tipped his trilby hat at her, seemingly in a good mood for once. "Miss Mason. Looking well."
"Thank you." She halted beside him and he followed suite, clearly unexpected of her to do so. Rachel knew she was faking courage, but she had to maintain regularity. "Rearing to go, are you?"
He sceptically eyed her smile.
"Once more onto the breach," he decided with a returning smile.
Grantly continued down the corridor and she let him leave, feeling her mouth drop back into a sullen expression. She knew he could see her uncertainty, yet there had been slight effort on his part to play along with her. For once, she appreciated it.
Entering the antechamber, the new secretary was nowhere to be seen. Rachel might have minded but she was aware of the rustling of paper, the faint scribbling of a pen heard from her office. She was relieved to have that first moment undisrupted. There was no question as to who was seated at her desk, trying hopelessly to lessen her workload.
Peering through the window, she felt her heart race at the sight of him. He was bent over the paperwork, a slight crease of brow revealing a charming air of determination. Rachel leant against the doorframe. Despite the quiet, he hadn't yet noticed she was there. Whatever he thought of her, she knew that she had missed him.
"What's wrong with this picture?" she spoke into the still air.
Eddie glanced up, his eyes widening at the sight of her. His mouth flickered into a boyish grin. "Rachel…"
His genuine welcome encouraged her, returning the smile and laughing lightly.
"Hi," he breathed.
"Hi."
She pushed away from the door to finally enter the newly decorated office. This was something she had been told by the governors, that her office had maintained some damage and so Eddie had taken it upon himself to redecorate.
"Welcome back." Eddie was similarly startled to see her as everyone else, standing and walking round the desk. He gestured toward it. "Well, it's all yours."
Rachel glanced over, overwhelmed by a sudden panic. Her office, her desk, was something she had thought constantly about, but now she was there, it was a daunting sight. With widened eyes, she let out a puff of air instead of words, peering up at Eddie. He was still smiling down at her and she felt the panic lessen. It occurred to her that she was staring at his mouth, instinctively stepping forward. Realising what she was doing, she changed direction and brushed past him. Their disappointment was palpable.
"Not that I will be doing much time sitting down this year." She sat down in her chair, raising her eyebrows. "Far too much time to sit and think over the past few weeks."
The comment was casual but she knew he was analysing her behaviour, the way she was talking. Rachel questioned whether he was concerned or trying to catch a mistake. She leant her head back against the chair, observing him.
"You were recovering from massive injuries," he frowned.
His familiar compassion was evident and she lowered her lids, knowing that was what she had needed to hear the most. Opening her eyes once more, she looked at the ceiling instead and noted the repairs.
"Yeah, whatever. No, I just want to get going." Rachel couldn't look him in the eye for what she needed to say. "I made a lot of promises when I came here and I haven't kept any of them."
She could feel his disagreement without once looking. "That's not true," he protested softly. "In fairness, you did have a few distractions."
He was one of them.
"Yes, well, this year I'm going to put that right." She stood; her confidence was slowly returning as she said it. This was her expertise and she was confident in that knowledge. "Because I don't want this school to be associated with fire and scandal. I want it to be a place where people can come and change their lives for the better."
Rachel felt her voice catch at the last second. She had meant to create a stronger Waterloo Road with her at the headship and instead, she had literally broken the school apart, leaving it to burn to the ground.
"You have to look after yourself, Rachel," he insisted.
Momentarily, she was caught off-guard by his soft but stern assurance. He had been missed but she continued to question whether she was ready to face what had been left behind.
"I'm fine."
He didn't quite believe her and she knew it. Nevertheless, his mouth twitched ever so slightly, an attempt at comfort.
"And I'll be even better when I see the people we're here for," she finished. "It's assembly."
Dashing around the desk, Rachel could feel a small illusion of control return. Eddie was a distraction that she didn't need, used to catching her unaware, and she didn't have the privilege that term. With her usual stride in practice, she left the office with him in tow.
The corridors were empty as they strolled to the assembly hall. Nothing had been said, but Rachel was content that she had returned to the school with little issue and that Eddie was beside her. She reached out an arm to push open the door as his voice drifted across the silence.
"You look good."
Startled at the compliment, her hand reached up to touch her collarbone without realising. One glance revealed how close he had gotten to her, suddenly claustrophobic of the space between them. Rachel knew there was no need to fret, yet under the panic, she knew there was a certain pleasure that he found her attractive.
"Thanks," she smiled.
She slowed down at the sight of the assembly doors. The memory of her last experience was fresh in her mind, not only that but her frequent nightmare. The one where Eddie wanted her to leave. Peering across at him, she knew he was calm, that he would support her like he had on the last day. With that in mind, she opened the door.
The chords of a piano could be heard once her foot stepped across the threshold and she looked across the heads of her students in amazement. On the other side, Matt was playing the piano with a small gaggle of students who have volunteered to sing 'Welcome home'. Rachel glanced accusingly at Eddie. He only offered a smirk, leaving her to walk down the middle on her own. Abashed but touched, she laughed along with the students as they looked across at her, no longer seemingly suspicious. She covered her face with her hand briefly, trying to hide her chuckle. It was a vast difference to the ghostly silence of last year, the large space echoing with music, singing, and laughter.
Rachel went onto the stage, observing the students before her. The sight reflected her nightmares, but they weren't demanding for her to leave; they were laughing and applauding. Someone had turned the spotlight on and she stood underneath, blinking out into the light.
Bolton pointed up at her. "There's only one Miss Mason!"
The students began to chant, repeating her name. She laughed but she felt more than embarrassment, unable to locate the feeling. In honesty, she hated the noise.
"Okay, that's enough, thank you."
They ignored her, pressing on loudly.
"That's enough," she exclaimed, gesturing for them to quieten down.
Their excitement lessened reason and they continued, despite her protests. Rachel could feel her temper growing.
"That's enough, thank you," she shouted over the commotion. "Thank you…"
She was sincere, even with her embarrassment, and she was pleased to see that the teachers seemed as happy to see her. That settled her nerves somewhat. The students slowly petered out apologetically, watching her every move.
"Thank you very much all of you. Mr Wilding and your singers. Erm, yes… Right, erm…" The room seemed to pause and Rachel was conscious that she'd forgotten what to say. The quiet was interrupted by the banging of the door and the shout of her name in Hordley's voice, before she realised that wasn't possible. There was only silence. Noticing Eddie staring at her from the front row, she struck inspiration. "And thank you, Mr Lawson, because I'm sure you're behind all this fuss." There was another round of applause and cheering. He beamed at her and she remembered vaguely what she had wanted to say. "Well, here we are. A new year, huh? Some new pupils and new staff." She pointed at the new sports teacher through squinted eyes. "And in some places, a new school. I hope you like what's been done to the old place. What do you think of it?"
Another eruption of applause, their genuine excitement was hard to disguise. Rachel believed she had made the right choice in returning so soon. This reception was what she had needed.
"Good, I'm glad," she continued. "I want you all to go home this afternoon. Tell your moms, your dads, your grandparents, whoever, we want them all here. Because we're opening the doors this year and the message that I'm trying to get across is if they're in need of something, the first place we want them to look is Waterloo Road. Yeah?"
She breathed a sigh of relief as the clapping of students and staff rang across the hall. Bolton shouted across to start his chant again. It was a reception she hadn't expected, but one that she welcomed.
The corridors were an inviting retreat from the bustle of assembly. The students had left for class while the teachers had lingered to talk. Despite the need to please her staff, Rachel was not interested in staying, relieved to have a moment alone. The idea of conversation agitated her.
Passing the front doors, she heard yelling filter across the car park. A strange-looking group were huddled around a taxi. One of the boys was arguing with the driver, stepping threateningly toward him.
"…Thinking we're some sort of charity case," he shouted.
The driver turned to leave, reaching for the door, which infuriated the boy further, pulling him back to face him.
"What're you doing? I'm not done with you."
Before he had finished speaking, Rachel was already running across the car park. A woman could be heard protesting, reasonably the mother of all the children. She grabbed the boy's arms and pushed him sideways, away from the driver.
"Hey!" she hollered. "What do you think you're doing? Get off him."
The boy stood back, eyeing her authority, before throwing himself back towards the driver. Rachel pushed him away with as much force as she could muster. She never enjoyed physically maintaining her authority, but the boy was an example of pupils who surpassed verbal warnings. Somewhere, the woman's voice registered between the two, as the must-be mother grabbed the back of his jacket and pulled him back.
"I will not say it again," Rachel seethed. "Now, what's going on here?"
She glanced between each of them while the boy stepped forward, accusingly.
"Who are you?" he demanded.
The hatred in his eyes was painfully clear. She stared down at him, knowing he was someone she had encountered before. Not him specifically- everything he stood for. He was the stereotype offered to her when she first arrived at Waterloo Road, with his shaved head, baggy clothing, and gold chain.
"I'm the head of this school. Who the hell are you?" She struggled to remain calm.
"Your worst nightmare."
His mother placed her hand on his chest to refrain him. "Earl." She looked directly at Rachel for the first time. "I'm sorry about this. We just had a little…"
Her sentence faltered, unsure of what to say. Rachel checked the driver, noting his fear. He made it obvious that he did not want to be there.
"I'm here to enrol the kids in school," the mother continued.
"Enrol? I, erm, I don't…" It was the last thing she wanted and they all sensed that.
"Made your day, ain't it, love?" Earl smirked.
"Look, I just need to know…"
"Don't worry. I don't want to be at your poxy school about as much as you want me here."
He was the only teenager that had spoken the whole time, astonishing Rachel into bewildered silence. Even without her, there was an underlying tension among the family. Yet, with incredulous timing, Eddie called across as he marched over.
"Is there a problem?" he questioned.
He was beside Rachel in seconds. She let herself move close to him.
"Yeah," the driver finally spoke up. "Five of them. I should have known when they asked me to bring them here." He climbed back into the car. "Good ol' flamin' Waterloo Road. Should have let this place burn to the ground."
Rachel felt a twinge in her chest, as if her heart had been mercilessly punctured. She flinched and Eddie saw. He rounded at the taxi, slamming the door shut with unexpected force.
"Shut up," he growled, "and get this vehicle of school property."
The engine purred into life and the taxi driver left hastily, glancing back at Eddie with contempt. He hardly noticed, bending his head down to whisper in Rachel's ear.
"Are you okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine," she muttered, slightly irritated.
The family were picking up a collection of plastic and bin bags, not having observed the small exchange. The possibility frightened Rachel and she didn't approve of Eddie making such an effort to coddle her.
"Okay, let's get inside and sort this mess out." She could see Earl glaring at her from behind his siblings. "I mean all of you. Come on."
Turning her back to them, she ignored Eddie's questioning stare. If she kept calm, the ordeal would be over quickly and she could return to the ideal first day she had envisioned.
Entering the front foyer, Rachel kept apart from the bustle of students who were transitioning from registration. She was somewhat peeved, hoping that nobody would bear witness to the new family that had dumped themselves on her doorstep. They were interested already by the newcomers, particularly at the shouting mother, who had introduced herself as Rose.
"No, no, no. I'm telling you straight, I spoke to the woman in the council office. I sent all the right paperwork, I'm sure of it. Why else would I be here?"
She was bristling with irritation and neither Rachel nor Eddie had an answer.
"I'm really sorry," he said. "Maybe you could try again tomorrow."
"No!" Rose shouted. "I need you to…" She halted, almost knowing she would say something inappropriate. "Look, I'm trying to do the right thing here."
The last thing Rachel wanted was a strange woman shouting in front of her students. "Yeah, I realise that."
"I can't win," she protested. "I kept 'em out of school, you threatened to keep me inside. Now the first thing I do is bring them to school."
As she spoke, Rachel knew there was nothing she could do and that she would take the kids either way. Eddie raised his eyebrows, watching Rose with some disdain. None of the adults seemed to be reaching an understanding, prompting Rachel to leave for somewhere quieter.
"Right, let's go to my office and see what we can do," she decided.
Rose calmed considerably but her looks were still scathing.
"Thank you," she groaned. "Come on."
Her children grabbed the bags once more, muttering between themselves. Rachel moved toward the door, Eddie beside her as always, when they heard Rose call out to them.
"Erm, could you give me a hand with the little one?"
The two turned at the same time, amazed that they had been asked at all. It was completely unexpected. Eddie had already taken two bags full of clothes, tucking them under his arm. Rachel knew that left her with no other choice. Hesitating, she went to the pram, placing her hands slowly on the handles. Rose was content, grabbing more bags and thinking no more of her baby. Rachel turned the pram around, glancing at Eddie with a look of disgust, shaking her head without the others noticing. He couldn't seem to decide how he felt, sharing her irritation but also amused at the sight of her with a pram.
Rounding the stairs near her office, Eddie had offered to help carry the pram since Rose had no intention of doing so. He took the handles while she held the wheels. This was the last image she would have thought of on any day, let alone her first. It was definitely the first time she had pushed and carried a pram around school. Her exasperation was shared with Eddie, who made no effort to hide it.
"We don't know anything about her." He leant forward to whisper, glancing cautiously down at the smiling baby. "Except she's hell-bent on dumping her kids on us."
"Then maybe it's the best place for them," she mused.
He was bothered by her apparent martyrdom, sighing heavily. "Rachel…"
"Why don't you get in touch with their school," she suggested, hoping to change the subject, "and see what you can find out about them."
They came to the platform and Rachel was relieved to have a flat surface, despite another round of stairs to climb. It was gruelling but the family made no effort to help. Passing students found the sight of them carrying the baby quite amusing, particularly Janeece, Chlo, and Maxine. They giggled between them, peering into the pram.
"Cute baby, miss," Chlo grinned.
Janeece burst into laughter. "Looks just like you, sir."
His head shot up at the suggestion. "Oi, cheeky."
The girls giggled collectively, flashing a jesting smile. Despite everyone's amusement, Rachel could feel her cheeks burning. The last thing she wanted was for them to see her embarrassment. Eddie grinned over to her, yet she wouldn't meet his eye, staring sullenly at the baby. Even as awkward as she found the situation, she couldn't help imagining the prospect of her own baby.
Seating the Kelly family in her office, Eddie had left her to deal with them on her own, although she wished he had stayed. Such a mundane and simple task seemed too difficult to deal with alone. The Kelly's were no doubt a challenge she would have loved but not that day. Skimming over the paperwork, Rachel squinted, unable to concentrate.
"Okay, let's have date of birth, previous address, current address."
Earl rolled his eyes. "For God's sake, how much longer is this going to take?"
Rose snapped her head round to glare at him. "Earl! Please. It's not like you've got anywhere better to be."
"I could be back at home," he protested.
"No, you couldn't and we both know why." She turned back to Rachel with a calmer tone. "Sorry, it's just we have a little problem with the current address."
Rachel felt her brow crease. "Right?"
"I don't know what it is yet."
The girl, the only one among four boys, looked up from biting her nails, a habit she hadn't stopped since entering the building. A greasy fringe hid half of her face.
"What are we gonna do at home time?" she complained. "We don't know where to go, do we?"
"Oh, for God's sake, Sam. I'll pick you up."
Sam dropped her head into her hands, evidently distressed. Rachel questioned if there was an issue, more than the clear fact that they had only just moved. The young boy beside the girl raised himself from the chair, leaning across the table.
"Marley," he moaned.
The oldest boy glanced up from playing with the baby. He was more composed than the others. "Mom, just text us the address," he offered. "We'll find our own way back."
He put his arm around the baby, squeezing his shoulder lightly.
"Don't be stupid." Rose was venomous. "What's the problem?"
"Well, by three o'clock you'll be pissed, won't ya?" Earl spoke out.
"That's not funny." Rose peered at Rachel with a nervous laugh, her hand pressing against her chest. Whatever was happening, the headmistress was unsure of how to proceed. "Don't make stupid jokes." She glared at each child individually, almost threatening. "Kids, I'm doing my best here. Can you not make it any harder?"
"I'm not sitting here and listening to this again." Earl sprung to his feet, heading for the door.
The younger boy followed him. "If he's going, I am."
Rachel sensed she should have taken control of the situation, although she knew she wouldn't be bothered if they left and never returned.
"Why don't we all just calm down," she threw out there.
Her voice was lost amongst the enraged family. The eldest boy had blocked her office door, preventing the other two from leaving.
"Neither of you are going anywhere, okay?" he muttered, his voice barely audible to Rachel. "Let's get this sorted out now. Sit down."
The three boys turned to glance quickly at her. She inadvertently gulped, partially grateful to the oldest for helping but also questioning if it would have been better for them to leave. Eddie answered her question, appearing behind them.
"I managed to speak to someone from your old school. Mrs Fox."
Rose was doubtlessly stunned, peering questioningly at Rachel's reaction. "Oh, look. Earl is really sorry about what happened." She moved her attention to him. "It was just a nasty accident, wasn't it, love?"
Earl turned his gaze slowly to Rachel, raising his eyebrows with a smirk as if he happened to be innocent. She didn't believe him. The word accident was still circling in her mind.
"Sorry, what sort of accident?" she demanded.
"The sort where a chair accidentally flies across the room," Eddie clarified.
This was certainly not the hassle she had needed nor anticipated, shaking her head in exasperation. Earl only shrugged nonchalantly. Between his indifference and the teachers' disapproval, Rose frantically tried to explain.
"Things just got a bit out of hand. Look, w-we've had our ups and downs, yeah." She clutched at her neck. "But we're trying to make a fresh start. I got us a new house so that we can be a proper family, and Marley and Earl are taking their exams this year…"
Rachel had already heard enough, yet knew she couldn't help the urge she always felt when there were students who needed drastic help.
"Okay," she sighed. "Okay, you can stay but you need to know that when it comes to violence, this school has zero tolerance." She directs her attention at Earl. "So no more flying chairs. No more picking fights, Earl." When there was no response, she became indignant. "Earl, I am talking to you."
"And he's listening," Rose interrupted quickly.
He smiled with a sinister air. "Oh, I'll be a good little boy. I promise."
"Good." Rose's doubt was abated for the time-being. "That it then?"
She reached down to grab her bag, despite the questioning glance between Eddie and Rachel.
"Er, well…" Rachel began.
Rose was already at the door. Glancing at the children, Rachel noticed the baby was still there. Eddie had noticed too, reaching out his arm to stop her.
"Mrs Kelly…" he frowned.
She spoke over him. "I'll be back for 'em at three."
With a simpered nod, Rose left the office before anybody knew what to say. Rachel watched her go in disbelief, unsure of why she had said nothing about the baby. As for the rest of the kids, they still weren't registered properly. Rachel exhaled strongly in amazement, leaning against the desk.
Rachel had managed to discover what year each of the Kellys were supposed to be in soon after, printing off a randomised timetable for each. She closed the glass of the secretary's peephole, knowing Eddie would have something to say. Despite what had happened, it wasn't necessarily the children's fault.
She took four pages from the printer and handed only three to Eddie, hearing the bell ring for the end of first period. "Okay, these are their timetables for today. We can fine tune them once we get to know their abilities, I guess."
Her voice sounded exhausted already and she winced.
"Or lack thereof," Eddie grunted.
She tutted, looking through the glass to the blurred figures.
"There isn't one for Marley," he realised.
"No, I want to have a one-to-one with him."
Eddie lowered his voice, smiling sympathetically. "Not quite the first day you expected, ay?"
"Not exactly, no." She headed to the door, wishing to end the conversation, but halted. Despite her wariness, she couldn't help but share more with him. "Should have known better than to expect that, shouldn't I?"
Believing the conversation to be over, she had her back to him when he followed her, continuing to talk.
"You'll be needing a drink by the end of play."
Rachel faced him, realising he had followed her closer than anticipated. Once she would have relished that closeness, but she could hear the hope in his voice and she wasn't sure what to do with it.
"Might even buy it you," he added.
She would have liked that, yet she was already hoping for home. There was a slight suggestion that distressed her. If her guess was right, then that was the last thing she wanted, not then. Even so, he was still smiling. She couldn't bring herself to disappoint him.
"Yeah, maybe. We'll see how it goes." A brief smile was all she offered, knowing he was satisfied.
Besides Marley, all of the other kids were taken by Eddie, led to their separate classrooms, all except Prince, who was handed to the volunteers in the crèche. Marley seemed to sense there was a reason he hadn't left, weary as Rachel led him through the corridors. She was pleasantly surprised by the difference between him and Earl. He was quiet, but always polite and fairly pleasant.
"Marley, I wonder if you could clear something up for me."
He glanced questioningly at her. "I'll try."
"Well, the GCSEs you are resitting, they were not your predicted grades. They were all A's and B's, but when it came to the real thing…" She didn't finish but he caught the meaning.
"Yeah, erm." He was clearly embarrassed. "I kind of fell to pieces. Nerves and…"
He trailed off feebly, pressing through into the next corridor as Rachel held the door for him. She knew he was lying.
"Oh, is that why you didn't turn up for some of the exams? Your mom must have been disappointed, hm?"
Rachel believed it was due to family circumstances, after seeing the charade in her office, and was hoping he would admit to such away from his family. Nonetheless, he was guarded. He didn't reach for the bait and she knew it was best to change the conversation.
"So, do you think you're over the exam phobia now?"
"Yeah, I hope so."
Despite his lack of communication, she could see a slight enthusiasm at the prospect of doing well. "Good because I think you're more than capable of doing the resits and the AS levels at the same time," she asserted. "I don't want to keep you back a year. Manage that?"
"Yeah, definitely," he nodded.
"Good, and you mustn't let anything, not your nerves nor anything else distract you, yeah? I know that can be hard."
Rachel was offering him an opportunity, one that inadvertently said she knew the situation he was in but was there to support him if necessary. He looked her in the eye, understanding her offer.
"I want to do this, miss."
She smiled in relief. "Good, that's good enough for me." Halting outside a classroom, she noticed a girl sitting inside. "Wait a minute, there's somebody I want you to meet. Hang on."
It surprised her she hadn't thought of this girl before. No doubt she would be a good influence on Marley. Leaning into the classroom, she called out for her.
"Felicity, can I just introduce you to someone?"
She obeyed, polite and friendly as ever. Felicity Mellor had always been eager to please, nothing like her father. Yet, it would have been unprofessional of Rachel to refuse praise just because her father was a prat.
"Marley, can I introduce you to Felicity? She's our head girl."
She smiled warmly, sizing him up with considerable interest. "Flick. My friends call me Flick."
"Sorry, Flick," Rachel said. "She's going to, well, help you settle in."
With a comforting smile, she could feel her fingers clutching onto the paper in her hand. She desperately wanted something to go right and it seemed she could. Marley laughed awkwardly, glancing over to her.
"I don't need a babysitter, Miss."
"I don't intend to be one," Flick shot back.
Despite the sharp comment, neither were disgruntled at each other. Rachel flicked her gaze between them, realising she was intruding on something. Whatever it was, it was none of her business.
"Alright then," she decided, handing him the paper in her hand. "Here's your timetable and I'll leave you to it. Good luck."
She left them alone, hearing Flick matter-of-factly lead Marley down the corridors. Smiling to herself, she knew there was one Kelly who would be fine.
Walking past the front foyer, Rachel had intended to get an early lunch, hoping Candice would take pity and let her take a sandwich. Going into the cafeteria at lunch didn't seem an option. Yet, any hopes were dashed when she spotted Ralph Mellor waiting in the middle of the foyer. The last person she had wanted to see, especially after the Kellys, was Mellor.
"Ralph, hello." Her voice echoed across the empty hall. "I thought the board of governors meeting was at the end of the week."
"No, that's right, but as chair I thought I should welcome you back," he answered, indifferently.
She knew he didn't want to welcome her at all.
"Right. I heard about the vote of no confidence." She tried to smile but his anger wasn't disguised. Rachel wanted to appeal to his good nature. "Well, I heard about it once I regained consciousness."
"Well, what did you expect?" he spat. "You'd left this school in ruins, literally." He continued, despite her discomfort. "You lied to us about your identity, there were exam irregularities. I mean, there had to be a response from the board."
She kept her gaze firmly on the wall. "Yeah, well, I appreciate that and I appreciate the second chance I've been given."
Rachel knew she was grinding her teeth, trying to remain professional. The last thing she wanted was to vaguely thank him but she had to. Although, if she had to grovel for the job, she would have.
"Last chance," he corrected. "You wouldn't have got that if it'd been up to me."
At some point, she knew there would be outright backlash and she had been lucky to go that far. It still hurt her deeply. Her mouth gaped open as she stared incredulously at him, unsure of what to say.
"However, some members of your staff put up a spirited defence," he added scathingly.
As if knowing he was being talked about, Eddie walked up behind her, as he had once before that day.
"Mr Lawson," Ralph addressed. Rachel responded to his name, relieved she had been saved from his scrutiny. "I was just telling Miss Mason…"
"Yeah," he spoke over him with clear irritation. "I heard." He looked down at her, only compassion reflected in his gaze. "There's a phone call for you in the office."
Whether it was luck or Eddie's pre-determined thoughtfulness, there was an option for her to opt from the uncomfortable situation.
"Yes, thank you, Eddie."
She couldn't bring herself to look at him, knowing he was the only thing keeping the day together. Before she left, she offered one more enraged glare at Ralph for good measure.
The phone call had been nothing out of the ordinary, another formality. To fill her mind with more than her thoughts, Rachel decided to take a walk around the whole school. She found it was a comfort.
Eventually she passed Eddie's classroom, hearing the usual interaction that he brought with his classes. Students always responded to him well. As she stood at the window, without him realising, there was a mocking cheer at one of his terrible jokes.
"That was rubbish, sir," one of the boys shouted.
"I'll improve my jokes when you improve your maths, Josh."
There was a round of laughter; even the boy didn't mind the jibe. With a smirk, Rachel continued down the corridor and to her office. She smiled at the new secretary, Joyce, although she admitted she missed Bridget. Seating herself at her desk, she glanced over her office and the neat piles of paperwork that were yet to be done. Surely it had been the right decision to return. Despite any doubts she had, Rachel knew she was where she belonged.
Flipping a sandwich and banana between each hand, Rachel made her way out of the cafeteria as quickly as she could. Luckily, she had the excuse of interviews to remain secluded in her office over lunch time.
"Miss Mason?"
Pausing, Rachel saw Jasmine approaching her. It was the first time they had spoken since the previous year. She was a teacher that had actually been missed; her persistent enthusiasm was pleasing to Rachel.
"I've just had the new boy in my class- Denzil Kelly" Jasmine explained, encouraged by the headmistress' hum of acknowledgement. "He really seems to be struggling with his reading and writing."
"Hm, well that doesn't come as a surprise really." She recalled her conversation with Marley, frowning slightly. "From what I can gather, those kids have never really had a chance to settle."
Jasmine sympathised, always compassionate compared to some of her colleagues. "I just can't believe that none of those other teachers have ever picked up on it or even cared."
"Well, it's good that you caught the problem early because it means that we can do something about it straight away."
Rachel could feel the role of the headmistress slowly returning, embracing that feeling of control. It excited her. She smiled encouragingly at Jasmine, who brightened at the reassurance.
"Yeah, I've spoken to him about his tuition and he's up for it so I've organised…" She paused at Rachel's biting smile, lowering her hands. "Sorry, I hope you don't think I'm just…"
She faltered, ashamed of her excitement, but Rachel was incredibly delighted to see her staff was enthused. Particularly as it was about a Kelly.
"Jasmine, it's fantastic that you've taken that initiative," she beamed. "Some of the staff members could learn from you, I think. Well done."
Rachel offered one last smile before leaving, knowing Jasmine knew what to do next. The buzz of the cafeteria was left behind and she found Matt and Steph in the corridor, huddled together among the students. They were ogling the new sports teacher, Rob, who was stretching unawares at the end of the corridor. His shoulder blades were protruding from his shirt as he turned, his abs clear under his tight shirt. Rachel couldn't help but admire him. It was hard to deny that he was an attractive man.
"Nice view," she mused. The two turned at her voice, abashed they had been caught. Rachel raised her banana at Steph. "Shouldn't you be preparing for your interview?"
Without waiting for an answer, she continued walking back to her office. Rachel chastised herself for thinking the first day would have ended badly. She had taken everything in her stride thus far. However, that was mainly due to help from a certain someone.
Rachel came across Earl on the stairs near her office, noticing him rush down determinedly.
"Mr Kelly, how is your first day going?" she inquired.
He flashed a distracted smile. "Good."
"Glad to hear it." She knew he wanted to get past her, reaching her hand across to rest on the bannister, blocking him from getting any further. "Look, it's not easy starting somewhere new. I know how intimidating it can be, but I really think you can find a place here if you give it a chance.
He nodded slowly, as if he were actually considering what she said. "Yeah."
Rachel wanted to believe he was another 'bad boy' with bravado, another kid with something to prove. If not, then he was a lost cause and she sensed that already.
"Yeah?" she grinned. "I've seen people in very similar situations as yours, and they've managed to turn things around for themselves and make a go of it. With a bit of effort, I think you can too."
"Well, I'm gonna try," he nodded. "Thanks, Miss."
He had changed completely since she had seen him that morning. She questioned whether he had been agitated due to his family, similar to Marley, and he wasn't as bad as she had originally thought. Whoever he was, she knew she could help him.
"Good. Lecture over."
She chuckled lightly, bringing her arm back to let him pass. Rachel took one step before remembering something else.
"Have you made any mates yet?"
He swivelled round, making a show of thinking about it. "I've talked to a couple of people. Made sure they know who I am and what I'm about. I'm meeting them for lunch now so…"
Scrutinising his expression, she weighed his answer before deciding he was being sincere. Earl was a picture of innocence. At least he was talking to people, that was a start and she knew her students would be a fairly good influence on him.
"Okay, canteen's that way." She pointed in the direction from which she had came.
"Okay."
He turned back, walking away with a passing smirk at Eddie. Her deputy climbed the stairs with a scowl, glancing over his shoulder at Earl.
"What did tough guy have to say for himself?" he grunted.
She looked up in amusement. "I think it's all bravado."
"Yeah?"
"Yeah, I think he's going to be fine once he realises that doesn't work here."
Rachel was already heading to her office, hearing a faint humph from him as he followed. She knew he wasn't certain but he didn't question her, believing that she knew best.
Before the end of lunch, Eddie left to grab some papers for the interview, mainly the applicants' CV. He waltzed back in as she held a chair uncertainly in her hand.
"Oh, Eddie, what do you think? Formal on the table or informal on the sofas?"
She was staring innocently at him, too transfixed on her dilemma to contemplate his smirk as he glanced quickly between the two.
"I'm sorry," he laughed. "What is it you're asking me exactly?"
"The Head of Extended Service interviews. Formal or informal?"
The more he smirked, the more impatient she grew. Rachel didn't understand what he found so funny; he knew they were having the interviews.
"Oh," he muttered in recognition. Eddie glanced wistfully at the sofas. "You know me, I'm an informal sort of guy."
Once he had said so, she knew which way she preferred, sighing heavily.
"Yes, you are." That certainly wasn't the approach she wanted to convey. "No, I think I'm going to go formal."
He frowned at her sigh, wondering what she had meant by it.
"I want to put the pressure on, you know." Rachel could feel her talking quicken, perhaps through a mix of emotions. She was excited to think of who would get the job, but she was nervous Eddie would never agree with her. "I'm looking for someone who is unflappable. In control." Taking a moment to let that sink in, she shrugged. "I'm looking for someone special."
"You're right. It's difficult for any teacher to get adults fired up. It's like you need…" He directed his gaze at her, musingly. "Magic powers."
The emphasis on the last words weren't missed on her, leaning on the back of the chair to grip the top. She was growing agitated for the interviews to start. Knowing what would happen had calmed her nerves considerably.
"But maybe it's not just teachers who can work magic," she thought, not catching his implication. "Maybe we should think outside the box."
"Maybe." He remained unconvinced.
She heaved the plastic chair back to the round table, gesturing at the door. If they were ready then she wanted to finish it.
"Okay, let's get the first one in."
He turned with little conviction, the folder of information still tucked under his arm. She clapped loudly to motivate him. Eddie only grunted in response.
"So how are you going to sell Waterloo Road to adults? You know, get them through the doors and eager to learn?... Make them part of the school community?"
Her last question was her hope to inspire an answer. Each candidate had been asked the same and with a mixed response, she wasn't sure how to feel. Yet, she was more eager than Eddie, who said little throughout.
And then Grantly had entered, raising his eyebrows in a suggestion of confidence. Neither of them had seen him all day. They hadn't expected to see the toupee that rested on the top of his head. Rachel knew she shouldn't laugh, it wouldn't have been right, but she could feel the amusement radiating from Eddie. She glanced in his direction, trying to silently scold him, but he wouldn't meet her eye. He would have laughed otherwise.
"I've always thought that education itself was its own reward," Grantly had answered.
He beamed at them before blowing air upwards from his mouth, hoping to adjust his wig that had slipped slightly. Rachel sat back, unsure of how to proceed. Eddie ran a hand over his face, unable to look Grantly in the eye. Neither knew what to say. They were both staring at the wig, but Rachel was the first to recover.
"Yes… Right, but how are you going to get that message out there? You know, pass it on?"
She hoped he said something constructive. One more concerning answer or wig trouble and Rachel didn't think she could continue the interview.
"Hm." He looked down at his lap in thought for a minute. "A couple of leaflets? Or, erm, open evenings? What you're after, isn't it?"
Grantly looked between them, his confident smile never wavering. Rachel was staring incredulously at him.
"Grantly, do you actually believe in opening this school to everyone?" she questioned.
"Well, of course," he nodded. "While they're in here then they're not out there nicking cars and robbing old ladies, are they?"
She looked across at Eddie twice in quick succession, unable to believe she was hearing right.
Grantly wasn't perturbed. "Unless, of course, you're going to offer a class in that as well."
"So, what we're looking for is someone who can identify what's needed. You know, adult education classes, after-school clubs, drop-in advice for teenage health issues. Those are just some ideas that I've been kicking around but I'm sure you've got some yourself?"
Rachel stared hopefully at Steph. The French teacher nodded slowly, eyes blank, before realising she was being asked a question.
"Ideas?" She leant forward, not knowing if she had heard right. "Absolutely, I'm full of them. I believe that ballroom dancing is very popular."
Rachel blinked. She knew her mouth was open but she didn't know how else to react. Eddie had hardly said a word.
"Wine tasting," Steph continued, counting off her fingers. "Jam making."
Eddie couldn't hide his smirk any longer, ducking his head so he wouldn't have to look at Steph's sincerity.
"Speed dating."
She laughed whimsically, pointing over the table. Rachel realised she was being pointed at, lowering her lids. That was the last thing she needed reminding of. Besides, it was hardly fair. Eddie was single too.
The last candidate passed slowly. Rachel avoided looking at the door too frequently, hoping someone else would walk through. She was still waiting for the right person. Eddie was enjoying the last interviewee, an old man who was reaching retirement. Rachel felt guilty for disliking him. He was respectable and had good experience, but she already knew who she wanted. Once the man had left, Rachel felt her shoulders slump.
"Where did you find him?" she accused.
"I liked the last one," he frowned forlornly.
She wanted to downplay everyone, to make him think there was someone more suitable. Standing, she walked around the desk, praying it wasn't too late. Nobody had walked through the door yet.
"What?" she exclaimed. "Same as the rest, mediocre at best. We're looking for someone with a bit of vision and drive."
Rachel knew she was growing agitated. Eddie was too, flicking through the applications.
"Makes it sound like you're looking for a cross between Rambo and Mother Theresa with a bit of Jeremy Kyle thrown in for good measure."
"Well, maybe I am, but these interviews are not over until the right person walks through that door."
There was a knock simultaneously and Rachel raised her head in anticipation. Perfect timing.
"Hi." The woman smiled brightly as she glanced between them. "I'm Melissa Ryan."
Eddie looked down at the papers, flicking through them in confusion. "Well, I don't seem to have you on my list."
His accusatory tone was clear. Rachel could feel her nerves returning, rushing around the desk.
"No, no, no. I added her to the list. She's a late entry." She reached out her hand to shake, the two smiling at each other in some unknown exuberance. "Nice to meet you, Melissa. Take a seat."
Melissa did so, offering a hand to Eddie, but he was staring at Rachel. She could tell he was peeved.
"What? You mean she missed the deadline?" he exclaimed.
"Can we worry about the details later, Eddie?"
Seating herself, she wished Eddie would stop glaring at Melissa. Disturbed by his lack of faith, Melissa looked over at Rachel questioningly, who offered a wide smile in return. Whatever Eddie thought, she knew she would make the right decision.