Tales of Hindus Valley - Chapter Substitute Teacher

"Ah...Ah...Ah...AH-CHOO!"

Miss Benson sniffled as she blew her nose. She gave the pig behind the general store's counter an apologetic look. "I'm sorry," she sniffed. "Been a rough mornin'..."

"No need for the apologise, Miss Benson." the pig gave her a sympathetic smile. "Anything else I can get fer ya?"

"Nah, I'll be good, thanks! AH-CHOO!" she blew her nose again once the general store's door opened, revealing Jessica Evans.

"Good morning'!" she chirped happily.

"Mornin', Miss Evans," the pig nodded to her. "What can I help ya with today?"

"Oh, well I was just hopin' if ya had any-"

"AH-CHOO!"

Jessica flinched at the sneeze and turned to see Miss Benson wipe her nose with her handkerchief. A look of concern crossed the female raccoon's face as she noticed the otter's bloodshot eyes and shaking body, which looked almost pale as milk

"Miss Benson, are you alright?" Jessica asked in concern for the schoolteacher.

"Not really," Miss Benson sniffled again. "I think I've caught a little bug and I…" She paused, nose twitching as she felt another sneeze coming.

"I...I...I...AH-CHOO!" the otter sneezed once more. "Oh, my achin' head…" she moaned in pain, her hand resting on her forehead. "I can't handle these children today…"

Jessica frowned as she placed a hand on the schoolteacher's shoulder. "Maybe you don't have to…"

"What do ya mean? It's my job, Miss Evans! AH-AH-AH-CHOO!"

"I mean, maybe you should just stay home and rest," Jessica recommended. "Get some sleep, take some medicine, have some warm soup. You'll feel better after a day or two, I promise."

"But…what about my job? The children?" Miss Benson inquired.

"I'll take care of 'em!" Jessica nearly giggled in delight. "I adore children, and considerin' how you're not feelin' well, you'll need a substitute in order for today to go by smoothly."

"Miss Evans," Miss Benson sniffed into her handkerchief. "Pardon me for bein' frank, but what do you know about teachin' children?"

"I just need ta find a way ta help the lecture sound fun to 'em, that's all."

"Miss Evans, that's precious!" Miss Benson let out a chuckle. "Believe me, it ain't that easy. While I appreciate the assistance, I really shouldn't allow any inexperienced persons teachin' my class."

"One day," Jessica pleaded. "Just give me one day, and I'll have 'em ready fer ya tomorrow! That's all I ask of ya, Miss Benson, please. While you rest?"

A sigh escaped the otter's mouth as she began to think about the benefits of taking a vacation day. While it wasn't ideal, this could work out: she'll be getting better while someone else was teaching her class. But that was just the thing...someone else was going to be teaching her class. Never in Miss Benson's career had she taken a sick day, and when given the chance or the recommendation to, she never took it. As stubborn as the otter was, it seemed like she just wasn't going to win against the female raccoon.

"Alright, Miss Evans," Miss Benson gave in. "I'll take the day off only if you teach 'em for the day. There's a test fer 'em kids tomorrow, and I don't wanna see them all unprepared."

"You can count on me," Jessica grinned.


The schoolyard was filled with the sounds of the bell as the children of Hindus Valley began crowding the building. What was waiting for them was a bit of a surprise, seeing Jessica Evans writing on the school's blackboard rather than the familiar figure of Miss Benson. Jessica had just got done writing on the board as soon as everyone took their seats.

"Where's Miss Benson?" Barry whispered to Rudy.

Rudy replied with a shrug of his shoulders as the sound of chalk was placed back down on the desk.

"Good mornin', children!" Jessica turned around and smiled at everyone. "For those of you who do not not me, my name is on the board for ya'll. My name is Jessica Evans, but for today, you'll refer to me as Miss Evans."

"As if we'd forget who the mayor's kid is," whispered Becca into Frederico's ear, earning her a chuckle from the dog.

"Now, before we begin today's lessons, are there any questions? Yes?" Jessica pointed at a male goat.

"Where's Miss Benson?" he asked.

"I'm afraid she's caught a nasty bug and won't be able to teach today." Jessica informed.

"Why would she catch a bug if it's nasty? My ma tells me ta stay away from 'em creepy critters!"

A chuckle of adoration escaped Jessica's mouth. "No, no, dear, what I meant was Miss Benson is sick for the day, and I volunteered ta make sure all you lovely children are prepared for tomorrow's test."

Several exasperated groans emerged from the children at the mention of the word "test". Becca raised her hand up. "Can't ya just say you gave us all a test?"

"No, I'm afraid not, Becca." Jessica replied.

"But yer the substitute, ain't ya?" Barry inquired. "You can get away with anythin' as long as Miss Benson never finds out."

Jessica pursed her lips. "I'm required ta give a report of all events that had happened today under my teachings, Barry. I'm afraid we'll have ta stick with what Miss Benson had planned." the groan from the children made Jessica fluster from disappointment.

"Great," Rudy muttered grumpily. "And here I thought today would be interestin' with a different teacher here."

"And who says today won't be an interestin' lesson?"

Rudy's ears stood erect and he straightened up at the all-to familiar voice. The entire class turned to see their newest deputy standing in the doorway of the schoolhouse, gun at his side and a familiar smirk on his face.

The sight of their valley's hero made the children look excited and some even curious about his presence in their class.

"Nevermind!" Rudy grinned. "Things just got a whole lot more interestin'!"

The sight of her savior and crush made Jessica's face turn red as a cherry. "Tennessee!" she exclaimed in surprise, "What are you doin' here?"

"Well, when I heard that Miss Benson was sick and that you were taking over for the day, I just had ta see fer myself!" Tennessee explained as he began making his way towards the front of the classroom. "Mind if I stay and watch, Miss Evans? Would love ta see your teaching methods."

"Oh! Well,umm…" Jessica wasn't sure what to think. On one hand she was happy for the presence of her savior and crush in the schoolhouse, but on the other hand she was concerned her flusteredness would distract her from the lecture.

"I...I suppose it wouldn't hurt…" Jessica answered shyly, wishing she could stop blushing before she embarrassed herself in front of the children.

"Tell you what, whatever yer fixin' ta teach these kids today, maybe I can help make it a little more interestin' for em'! Wouldya like that, kids?"

The collective chants of approval from the children answered the raccoon's question. That was, until another hand was raised, the owner of said hand being a female chicklet.

"Pardon me, Deputy Cooper, but shouldn't ya be helpin' the sheriff?"

"Well, little lady," Tennessee replied. "I was given the day off; and besides, who am I ta miss out on helpin' Miss Evans here ta teach you kids? Now how's about we let her start today's lesson? Miss Evans?"

"Right," Jessica cleared her throat. "Well, now that we have introductions settled, hows 'bout we go over Newton's Laws of Physics? I understand yall have a test tomorrow, correct?"

"Unfortunately, yes," Rudy grumped, not at all looking forward to said test.

"Well if that's the case, let's go over each of the three laws and see if we can think of some examples."

With that, Jessica picked up a small stick of chalk and wrote on the chalkboard: NEWTON'S FIRST LAW.

"Newton's first law," Jessica read out loud, turning around to face the class. "Also known as the Law of Inertia! Who can tell me what that is?"

"I think I know," Chester spoke with a raised wing. "I think it states that any object that's at rest will keep at rest as any object in motion will stay in motion unless some outside force affects it."

"Very good, Chester!" Jessica praised. "Now, can anyone give me an example?"

"I think I can," Tennessee stepped forward before grabbing an apple off the teacher's desk. "How's about ta demonstrate this, we use this apple here? Say, Barry?"

"Yes Deputy Cooper?"

"Catch!"

Tennessee tossed the apple towards the calf, who caught it square in his hoof with a look of surprise.

"That right there, kids, was Newton's first law in action! When I threw the apple at Barry, it kept in motion until he caught it, and if he didn't catch it, it woulda kept going until gravity pulled it down or until it splattered against the wall. After seein' that, can anyone else think of an example of Newton's first law they'd see in everyday life?"

"My daddy likes ta shoot arrows while huntin'! Does that count?" asked Becca, who kept writing down everything she saw and heard.

"Or when ya shoot yer gun, Deputy Cooper?" Barry inquired alongside her.

"How about when we're at the blacksmith's shop and we see the blacksmith swing his hammer down until it hits whatever's on his anvil?" Rudy suggested.

"All great examples!" Jessica clapped her hands together. "Now, how's about we move onto Newton's second law, the Law of Acceleration?" she then proceeded to write on the board: NEWTON'S SECOND LAW, followed by another underline. "Who here can explain what this law is all about?"

"Eh, I believe it is: when an outside force acts on an object, the object will acelerar," Frederico guessed, "correcto?"

"Correcto," Jessica confirmed with a smirk. "Anyone wanna follow-up with what Frederico had said? Or better yet, does anyone wanna give an example?"

"I've got another one," Tennessee stepped forward again. "Anyone here own a slingshot?"

"Tennessee," Jessica placed a hand on his shoulder. "I appreciate the assistance, but that's a little...extreme, wouldn't ya say? Throwing an apple at a child is one thing, but I don't think a slingshot would be-"

"I've got one!" cheered a random student, tossing it towards Tennessee, who caught it with a grin.

"...Just be careful." Jessica sighed in defeat, moving back towards the blackboard to begin writing down the lesson on Newton's second law.

"Careful's my middle name," Tennessee smirked before turning back to the class. "Now, does anyone have somethin' small enough that can fit in this? A small rock or a walnut maybe?"

"I've got a walnut," quipped a young woodchuck as he held it up and tossed it to the deputy. "I was savin' it fer a snack, but I'd like ta see where yer goin' with this."

"Tennessee, I don't want ya shootin' anything - or anyone - in this building, ya hear?" Jessica lectured from over her shoulder. "Aim out the door or one of the windows if ya have to."

"You think I'd fire a walnut at a child fer the sake of a lecture?" Tennessee donned a false look of offence. "Miss Evans, you insult me!"

"Ya really gonna shoot somethin', Deputy Cooper?" Chester asked with excitement.

"You got it!" Tennessee motioned for everyone to follow him to the schoolhouse's entrance. "C'mon, kids, lemme show ya what Newton's second law looks like in action!"

The children eagerly followed the male raccoon outside in front of the schoolhouse as Jessica watched from the building's doorway in mild interest and curiosity.

"So what are ya gonna shoot, Deputy Cooper?" Gordy inquired. Tennessee's eyes shifted upwards to look at the bell at the top of the schoolhouse, a smirk gracing his lips.

"See that bell up there?" Tennessee asked rhetorically as he began aiming the slingshot upwards. "Watch this…" once he let loose of his grip on the slingshot, the children watched as the bell was struck, a small "DING" escaping in the progress.

"That, kids, was Newton's second law at it's finest!" Tennessee grinned as he led them back inside. "When I released my grip, the band on the slingshot launched the walnut and accelerated it until it hit the bell. Can anyone think of any more examples like this when it comes to acceleration?"

"Stacy's movements when she spots Percy?" Rudy joked, earning laughter from the children, Tennessee and Jessica included.

"How 'bout when ya shoot a bullet from yer gun? That oughtta count as acceleration," suggested a male piglet.

"Or when yer on one of them railroad handcars and ya pump it ta make it move?" Gordy added.

"Great examples, kids!" Tennessee praised. "I'd say y'all oughtta do just fine on that test tomorrow if today's anything to judge by."

"Well we're not finished yet," Jessica added as everyone sat back at their seats. "We've still got one more law ta go over: Newton's third law."

With that, the she-raccoon wrote the words NEWTON'S THIRD LAW on the chalkboard before underlining it once more.

"Now, can anyone tell me what Newton's final law of physics is?"

Becca slowly raised her hand and guessed, "Does it say that whenever an object puts force on a second object, the second object will give an equal and opposite force on the first object?"

"Very good Becca! Can anyone give an example of this?"

"This oughta be good…" Becca whispered to Rudy.

"I think I've got an example for ya," Tennessee smiled mischievously.

"Look, Tennessee, as much as I appreciate yer help, the last two examples ya gave were a little...unorthodox," Jessica frowned. "I'm not sure I'm comfortable with lettin' ya give another one."

"Oh, don't worry Jessica," Tennessee assured, "I promise I won't do anything like I did with the apple and the slingshot."

"You sure?"

"Sure I'm sure," Tennessee smiled. "Have a little faith, will ya?"

Feeling pleased with the answer, Jessica smiled. "Alright then, what example can ya give us regarding Newton's final law, Deputy Cooper?"

"Well, when I think of Newton's last law, I can…"

Tennessee paused, a perplexed expression adorning his face as he looked behind Jessica in confusion.

"Huh. That's not someplace I'd expect a cuckoo clock ta be hung."

In befuddlement, Jessica turned to see where Tennessee was looking only to see nothing.

"There's no-"

Jessica suddenly paused as she felt something soft plant itself on face, and she glanced to her left to find Tennessee planting his lips on her cheek in a gentle kiss.

"TENNESSEE!"

Face instantly turning crimson, Jessica shoved Tennessee away from her and made him fall on his back as the children broke out giggling at what occured between the two raccoons.

"That kids was Newton's final law in action," Tennessee smiled as he sat up. "When I kissed Miss Evans just now, she reacted oppositely by pushin' me ta the floor."

"But doesn't the law say both forces hafta act on each other with equal force?" Asked Barry.

"Alright, alright, that's enough!" Jessica exclaimed as she tried to stop blushing. "I think Mister Cooper's helped out enough fer this review! How's about we do recess now and take a little break?"

"Sounds good ta me!" Rudy grinned as he closed his notebook and began leaving the building. The other children followed in suit until there was only Tennessee and Jessica standing alone in the building.

"Sorry about that little kiss, Jessica," Tennessee remarked apologetically. "If it helps ya feel better, I'd say ya got even with me."

With a sigh, Jessica walked passed Tennessee, a book in hand. "It's quite alright, Tennessee. Just...try not ta do such things in front of the children again what I'm teachin'. That was a little…"

"Romantic? Charmin'?"

"Embarassin'." Jessica deadpanned, exiting the building.

"Well, I'm sorry then!" Tennessee called after her. "Hopefully this little event won't damage our relationship that much!"

Despite herself, Jessica couldn't help but smile, her insides feeling warm at the mention of the word "relationship" from her crush.


A short while later, the children were enjoying their time out of the classroom with the two raccoons supervising them. Tennessee was contently observing some of the boys playing "sheriffs and outlaws" with popguns while Jessica sat at the base of the schoolyard's tree as some of the girl students listened to her read a storybook.

"...and with her identity revealed once the prince slipped the glass slipper onto her foot, Cinderella was whisked away from her horrible stepmother and stepsisters and lived happily ever after with the man of her dreams. The end."

The girls around her cheered and clapped as she closed the storybook, glad she was able to please her students.

"Wow, what a story!" Grinned a female piglet. "I sure wouldn't mind knowin' what it's like ta be someone like Cinderella! Havin' a handsome knight in shinin' armor save me from some horrible situation and live happily ever after!"

"Well why not ask Miss Evans here?" Smirked Becca. "I'd say she knows a thing or two about that kind of stuff."

"What do ya mean?"

"Whaddaya think I mean? Ever since he saved her from that Weasen crook, it seems like Deputy Cooper and Miss Evans are as close as peanut butter and jelly."

"I-I wouldn't say we're that close…" Jessica said with reddening cheeks. "Sure I'm appreciative of how he risked his life ta save me from the Flooded Mine, how gentlemanly he's treated me so far, how wonderful he is around children, how he never gives up on helpin' the people in this valley…"

Jessica paused, realizing she had brought her hands to her face and was smiling softly with red cheeks as the children around her looked excited, or in Becca's case, smug.

"Awww…" Cooed Claire, a small vixen. "She really does like him!"

"Who can blame her?" Becca smirked, "Deputy Cooper's saved her twice since he first came here; first from Weasen and again from that hot air balloon, I'm startin' ta think ya'll like gettin' in trouble if it means gettin' saved by him."

"Oh, Becca, don't be silly!" Jessica chided. "Tennessee would save just about anyone in trouble, not just me!"

"Well he sure enjoys savin' you the most."

A mischievous glint appeared in the young mouse's eyes as she smirked. "Matter of fact, why don't we play a little game where we pretend yer in trouble of some kind, and Deputy Cooper has ta save ya?"

Jessica, amused and curious at what Becca meant, decided to play along.

"Oh? And what kind of trouble would you think he'd save me from?"

"Well…" Becca smiled deviously, "Remember what I did ta ya the first time Weasen came ta town?

XXXXXXXXXX

"N-now, come on fellas…" Tennessee gulped. "Surely we can reach some kind of agreement."

"'Fraid we're past that point, deputy. The only thing in yer future is a pine box! See you in the next world, lawman!"

POP!

Tennessee gave a dramatic gasp of faux-agony as he stumbled backwards and fell down playing possum. His "attackers" stood around him, grinning playfully as they lowered their popguns at the male raccoon.

"Aw, who are we kiddin'?" Rudy smiled. "After survivin' the Rancid Riders, there ain't an outlaw in the west that can take you down, Mister Cooper!"

Sitting up while dusting himself off, Tennessee donned a smile of his own. "Aw, stop it Rudy, yer gonna make me blush."

"I mean it! Before you came along, we thought nobody could go against the Rancid Riders and live ta tell the tale, but that was before you washed 'em away by blowin' that dam! Yer probably the best thing ta ever happen ta this valley and the best chance of goin' against the Rancid Riders we've ever had!"

Before Tennessee could reply he heard someone calling his name, and he and the boys turned to see one of the girl students running towards him with a look of alarm.

"What's wrong, little missy?"

"Oh, Deputy Cooper it's dreadful!" The chicklet pretended to look distressed. "Miss Evans has been captured by vicious indians and now they're tickling her like there's no tomorrow! You have to do something before Miss Evans laughs herself to death!"

"Miss Evans in trouble?" Tennessee gasped before looking determined. "I'm on the way!"

Tennessee followed the chicklet away, leaving the boys alone to watch the retreating forms of their classmate and town deputy.

"Boy, what a guy Mister Cooper is!" Grinned Barry, "Almost makes me forget what life here was like before he came along."

"Well, he has done a good job at helpin' around the valley," Chester added, "but we won't be safe fer sure as long as the Rancid Riders are still out causin' trouble."

"Aw, come off it, Chester," Rudy shrugged, "if he's able ta get the best of them once like at the Flooded Mine, he can do it again! And with my big brother, Warden Jones, and Sheriff Henderson on his side, them outlaws won't know what hit 'em!"

A mischievous grin appeared on Rudy's face as he added, "Seein' as how we're all alone now, anyone wanna watch me do somethin' amazin'?"


Tennessee followed the young chicklet up the hill, playing along with the dramatic narration. Once the duo reached the tree that the girls were sitting earlier, Tennessee couldn't help but smirk at the sight in front of him. Poor Jessica Evans was laying on the ground, laughing hysterically as two young girls - both skunks - held the she-coon down by the arms while others gathered around, taking turns to tickle her senseless. Becca in particular was enjoying herself as she stroked a turkey feather across her substitute teacher's soles while a female pig scribbled her fingers across her belly and ribs.

"Oh, the horror!" cried the chick in mock dismay. "Deputy Cooper, you must do somethin' before Miss Evans dies of laughter!"

"PLEHEHEHEHEHEHESE!" Jessica laughed as tears spilled from her eyes. "GIRLS! AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! I CAHAHAHAHAHAN'T BREHEHEHEHEHEHEATHE! IT TICKLES! EHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHE! I'M GOHOHOHOHOHOHONNA WHEHEHEHEHEHEHET MYSEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHELF!"

"Don't worry, I'll save you!" Tennessee declared, diving towards the small group of tickling heathens, playfully succeeding as he gathers the squealing skunk twins into his arms. "I'm gonna get you all!" he laughed, watching as Jessica's "attackers" fled, screaming to keep the act going.

"I'm free!" giggled Jessica, getting up from her spot. "Better watch out, 'cause Deputy Cooper is here now!" she grinned as she turned around, watching as Tennessee gently placed the twins down on the ground. "My hero." sighed the she-coon, coming down from her laughing fit.

"Glad I was able ta help, Miss Evans." Smiled Tennessee with a tip of his hat while the girls watched with eagerness. "Though I'd be lyin' if I said I didn't like ta see ya laugh like that."

"Mister Cooper, you flirt!" Jessica laughed. "I'm flattered, truly."

"That's me, alright." grinned Tennessee. "Speakin' nothin' but the truth and only the truth. Your laugh truly is adorable, Miss Evans. Makes me wanna hear it more and more…" an idea pops into Tennessee's head as a devilish grin appeared on his face, getting closer to the female. "In fact...I wanna hear it again...right now."

"T-Tennessee?" Jessica gulped, smiling nervously as she stepped back some. "N-Now you listen here, Tennessee Cooper, you best stay clear! I- GAAHH!"

The girls watched as Tennessee leapt towards Jessica, lifting her up over his shoulders while spinning around, laughter escaping the she-coon's mouth before she was gently laid on the ground, proceeding to be tickled yet again on her belly. This time, by Tennessee himself, who laughed alongside her.

"C'mon, girls!" Tennessee shouted. "Let's get her!"

"This wasn't part of the plan…" groaned Becca.

"Who cares?!" exclaimed a small vixen. "Tickling Miss Evans is loads more fun! Hannah, Amanda, pin her down again!" she ordered to twin skunks, who quickly obeyed.

"TRAIAHAHAHATOR!" laughed Jessica, referring to Tennessee.

Tennessee smirked down at her, making sure to ease up on her a bit so she could speak cleared. "Me? Traitor? Why, Miss Evans, you insult me! I only wish ta hear your adorable laughter, is all! Would ya deprive a man of such pleasures, especially since yer such a cutie?"

"Ehehehehehehehe! Thahahahahahat's nihihihihihihice of ya Tenesehehehehehehehe!" Jessica giggled wildly, touched by the compliment despite her predicament. "But I cahahahahahahan't tahahahahahake muhahahahahahahach mohohohohohohore!"

Deciding she had enough Tennessee, stood up and motioned for the girls to cease their tickle attack as Jessica propped herself up with her arms.

"Wohohohow!" Jessica giggled and wiped a tear from her eye. "I haven't been tickled like that since I was a child! That was actually quite fun if I-"

Jessica then paused, a look of confusion donning her features as if noticing something for the first time.

"Somethin' wrong?" Tennessee asked, instructing the girls to get off and away from the she-coon.

"Wait a minute…" Jessica murmured in realization, getting up from her spot cautiously, as if the earth below them was unstable. "If yer up here with me and the girls...WHO'S WATCHIN' THE BOYS?!"

"GERONIMO!"

Tennessee and Jessica whipped their heads around to see where the shout had come from. There was Rudy, careening down the hill on a plank of wood, which was laying on top of two barrels. Tennessee hardly had enough time to react before he felt a heavy force slap him aside the head.

"You dunderhead!" shrieked Jessica. "You left the boys unattended?! You left RUDY unattended?!"

"How was I supposed ta know he'd do somethin' like this?!" Tennessee countered, rubbing the back of his head. He'd lost count on how many times this woman had slapped him silly. "Don't worry, I'll take care of this!" he began to chase down Rudy, screaming at the top of his lungs, "RUDY, STOP!"

"I DON'T KNOW HOW!" Rudy shouted back with a gleeful grin. "I'M JUST GONNA HAVE TA WAIT UNTIL I COAST TO A STOP!"

"YOU'LL STOP ALRIGHT, THE MINUTE YOUR BROTHER OR MISS BENSON HEARS OF THIS!" retorted Tennessee. "THIS IS NOT OKAY!"

"SAYS THE RACCOON WHO BLEW UP A DAM AND LET HIMSELF GET SWEPT AWAY IN A BARREL!"

"RUDY, LOOK OUT!" shouted one of the boys, pointing towards a pond Rudy was quickly nearing.

"Oh boy!"

Rudy had little time to think as the front barrel struck a large rock in its path, making it and the other barrel come to an abrupt stop as Rudy went flying off the plank, sailing through the air and yelling like mad before landing in the pond with a heavy splash.

"You okay?" Tennessee asked as he finally caught up with Rudy, catching his breath in the process.

"Yeah!" grinned Rudy, taking Tennessee's hand as he was offered, getting pulled back onto shore. "That was fun!"

"RUDY WILCOX!" bellowed an angry feminine voice. "YOU'RE IN BIG, BIG TROUBLE!"

Everyone turned to see Jessica running downhill with her fists clenching the front of her dress up as the group of girls and the rest of the boys followed in tow.

"N-Now Jessica-" Tennessee was then cut off.

"I'll deal with ya later!" snapped Jessica before bringing her attention back onto the young jackrabbit. "What in the lord's name did you think you were doin ridin' barrels down the hill like that?!"

"I-I just…" Rudy gulped nervously. "I just wanted ta do somethin' like what Deputy Cooper does, always doin' amazin' things despite the danger."

Sighing, Tennessee kneeled down to Rudy's level and placed his hands on the child's shoulders.

"Look Rudy, as flattered as I am that ya'd try ta emulate me, ya really shouldn't be doin' stuff like that."

"Why not?"

"Because you're only a child," Tennessee said firmly. "You're too young to be doing reckless things like that. I'd hate ta see yerself gettin' hurt because ya see me doin' the same thing."

"Well...that's why I admire ya, Deputy Cooper," Rudy replied. "No matter how much danger ya put yerself in, ya never give inta fear and push through no matter what."

"Because I have to, not because I want to." Countered the raccoon. "The things I can do...they're for my job. What you can do...it's what only a child should be doin'. Pullin' stunts like that can really get ya hurt, and none of us wanna see ya hurtin' yerself, especially Percy."

"I...I see yer point," Rudy sighed dejectedly. "I'm sorry fer makin' everyone worried."

"As you should be," Jessica retorted. "Come along now, children, recess is over. We still got a lot to practice before your test tomorrow."

Despite some sighs and some rolling eyes, the children began to make their way back to the schoolhouse with the two raccoons watching them as they left.

"Kids, huh?" Tennessee smirked while watching their retreating forms. "They drive us crazy, but we'd still do anything for 'em."

"Don't think I haven't forgotten about you, Mister Cooper." Jessica glanced over her shoulder at Tennessee while following the children. "I'll have a word with you about supervision after the final bell."

"Fine by me."

With that, Tennessee and Jessica made their way back up the hill to the schoolhouse, though despite her displeasure with him Jessica couldn't deny that recess had been...interesting.


The children fled from the building the second the sound of bells echoed, signifying their freedom for the day. With a heavy sigh of content, Jessica proceeded to wipe the chalkboard of the last lesson she gave before the bell rang.

"Gonna give Tennessee a piece of my mind next time I see him," Jessica muttered, "leavin' children unattended like that…"

"Miss Evans?"

Jessica stopped what she was doing and turned to see Susie, the young chicklet who had alerted Tennessee before standing nearby with a look of regret on her face.

"Somethin' wrong, Susie?" Jessica asked in concern.

"I'd like ta take part of the blame fer what happened today at recess." She professed guiltily.

"Whatever for?"

"I'm the one who made Deputy Cooper leave the boys alone by makin' him come an' save ya from us girls. We thought it'd be sweet if he got the chance ta save ya and be yer knight in shinin' armor again. I wouldn't have guessed Rudy would try and do somethin' like what he did with the barrels. That sort of thing doesn't usually happen with Miss Benson here."

Jessica sighed as she made her way towards Susie before kneeling to make eye contact. "I appreciate your honesty, Susie. Thank you fer tellin' me."

"So...yer not mad?"

"Oh sweetie, I ain't mad at ya and the rest of 'em girls. I'm just...upset at Mister Cooper, is all. He should've paid attention to the boys like he promised rather than flirtin' with me while on the job."

"Yer right," came a new voice. Both Jessica and Susie brought their attention to the schoolhouse's entrance to see Tennessee.

"That's enough fer today, Susie. Why don't ya head along home now, alright?" Jessica instructed the chick.

In response, Susie wrapped her feathers around the she-coon's dress. "Thank you, Miss Evans." she praised before exiting.

"Ya know I didn't mean fer it ta happen," Tennessee began as he approached Jessica. "The last thing I'd ever want is fer somethin' bad ta happen ta Rudy or any other kid in this valley. But I won't hold it against ya if yer still upset with me, Jessica."

"Well, ya sure didn't make this job any easier today," Jessica quipped, folding her arms across her chest while tilting her hip sideways. "Being a teacher, lookin' after a bundle of children...I was certainly hopin' nothin' could go wrong with you around, Tennessee. Yer lucky Rudy came out of that unscathed."

"Believe me, I'm sure I won't let somethin' like that happen again. 'Specially if it happens just because I came by ta try and help make class more fun fer the kids."

"Tennessee…" Jessica wondered. "When was the last time you've been around kids before arriving here in Hindus Valley?" The blank stare from the male was enough of an answer for her. "I figured. While making lessons fun can be helpful, you've also gotta pay close attention and be assertive. Treat 'em like your own child. What would ya do if that was your child goin' down a hill like that?"

"I'd probably be scared for him," Tennessee answered sullenly. "I wouldn't forgive myself if somethin' bad happened ta him. If this kind of thing might happen whenever I stop by ta help around here, I'll make sure ta keep my distance from the schoolhouse."

Jessica frowned at this. "Now why would you think I'd want that? Tennessee, the children really adore ya. I even enjoyed havin' ya here. Do I...really seem that upset to that point ya don't wanna go anywhere near here anymore?"

"Well the last thing I want is ta cause more trouble around here. And if Miss Benson trusts ya enough ta teach these kids while she's out sick, I don't wanna make yer job any harder for ya."

"Tenenssee…" Jessica sighed. "Shut up. Just because you made one mistake does not mean I don't want ya helpin' me. You managed to save Rudy and he managed not ta get hurt. If anything, I call that a win. True, it was by luck, but at least we've all learned somethin' today."

Tennessee managed a small smile. "Yeah, I guess we all did. The kids learned about how Newton's laws occur in everyday places and I learned how great you are with kids yerself. Not ta mention how adorable you are when yer laughin'."

Blushing, Jessica smiled. "Aw, Tenenssee, ya flatter me. Now…" she motioned for him to come over to her. "Let me teach ya a little somethin' about Newton's third law."

Tennessee's face flushed at her request. "Yes, ma'am!"

Tennessee walked over to where Jessica was standing and pulled her close, closing the gap between their lips. When they parted, a smirk appeared on Tennessee's face. "Ya know...I guess I wouldn't mind learnin' more from ya, Miss Evans."

With an eyeroll, Jessica pulled away slightly. "You're suck a cocky flirt, Tennessee. You can be a real troublemaker, but...you're great with kids, I'll give ya that."

She then began to make her way to the school house's exit, but stopped inside the doorway.

"Oh, and Tennessee?"

The male raccoon paused as he glanced back at her, a flirtatious smile gracing her features. "I may have enjoyed you ticklin' me earlier, but next time…" She batted her eyelashes charmingly at him. "Please be as gentlemanly as ta ask me permission first. Much as I enjoyed bein' tickled, I'd like ya ta still be polite in the future about it."

Tennessee couldn't help but grin as he caught up with Jessica, linking their arms together as they left the schoolyard. "Whatever the lady wants."


~The Following Day~

"All A's!" Miss Benson slapped the test results in front of Jessica. The two were currently seated at the saloon, discussing the events of yesterday over lunch. "I don't know how ya managed it, Miss Evans, but thank ya kindly! I couldn't be more proud of these crazy kids!"

Smiling in humility, Jessica replied, "Glad I was able ta help, Miss Benson. Though I must confess I can't take all the credit here."

"Oh?" Miss Benson raised a curious eyebrow before taking a sip of her drink.

"Deputy Cooper came by yesterday," Jessica explained. "He sure helped a lot."

"Oh did he now?" Miss Benson smiled knowingly. "I take it you were rather happy fer him ta be there with ya?"

Jessica gave out a nervous giggle. "Well, I suppose…"

Miss Benson smirked before adjusting her glasses. "Miss Evans, I...I don't know how ta thank ya. The children had nothin' but wonderful things ta say, and I was wondering...would ya like a position...as my assistant teacher?"

"W-What? Really?" Jessica's face flushed. "I...I don't know what ta say, Miss Benson! Thank ya so much!"

"Well, it's the least I can do fer ya fer keepin' a handle on things while I was down with the sniffles. I enjoy havin' someone around ta help me around the classroom."

"I'd be honored, Miss Benson. Thank ya, kindly."

Miss Benson smiled. "I should be thankin' you, Miss Evans."

Jessica nodded in response. "Ya know...bein' a substitute wasn't all that bad. How could this be any different?"

"Prepare fer five days of insanity." Miss Benson joked.

The two ladies shared a hearty laugh at this before a waiter came over to their table with a mug of coffee in each hand.

"I'm sure everything will be fine, Miss Benson. If I can handle Deputy Cooper's crazy situations that he tends ta get into, then a couple of kids won't be a problem."

"I wouldn't expect any less of ya," Miss Benson smiled. She then looked confused when she saw the waiter place the mugs of coffee on their table.

"I'm sorry, we didn't order any coffee."

"I know," the waiter answered. "Deputy Cooper just paid fer these two and had me bring 'em to you ladies."

Both Jessica and Miss Benson turned their heads to see Tennessee sitting across the saloon, offering them a friendly smile and a wink.

"Well then…" Miss Benson took her own mug in her hand. "He's a keeper, Miss Evans."

"Yeah…" Jessica said, her face flushed and smiling. "He sure is."