Red-Handed
She could see them glancing this way and that, as if they wouldn't be seen. Somehow. A building full of people and they would manage to remain undetected by any of the staff or students. More the fool them.
Too busy peering over their shoulder, making sure they weren't being followed, they almost walked into Rachel. Eyes widening in horror, the student glanced around, intaking the sight of their headmistress before them. Her arms crossed and brow furrowed. Kacey Mulver slowly raised her gaze to meet her teacher's.
"I have a note," she instantly said.
"Oh?" Rachel raised a brow. "Let's see it then."
She didn't bother extending her hand, knowing she would receive no such item. Kacey knew it too, her fingers gripping onto the strap of her bag.
"Erm… I think I left it at home this morning."
"No note, no approved absence. You know that."
Kacey opened her mouth, already an argument prepared, but the sight of Rachel's hand gesturing for her to stop made her close it again.
"We can always go up to my office and phone your mother," the headmistress offered. "I'm sure she can spare some time to get the note and bring it here. Besides, if you need to leave, she should be here shortly to pick you up?"
Flinching, Kacey released a low sigh. She lowered her head to stare at the floor. "Don't bother, Miss."
"Back to class then, Miss Mulver." Rachel was already ushering her the other way. "And I hope to see you at lunch, yes?"
Another exasperated huff. "Yes, Miss. I'm sure you will."
So much for playing hooky. Rachel Mason kept the school running on a tight schedule; she would have no excuses.