“Those permits?”
My breath catches.
“The gym?”
He smirks.
“Terrible shame.”
Realization dawns.
“You son of a bitch.”
“Things could change. It’s in your power, Red.”
My blood runs cold.
“Don't.”
“Spend one evening with me and I guarantee every permit gets approved.”
I stare at him.
Disgusted.
Furious.
Somehow this man actually believes I can be bought.
He really doesn't know me at all.
“Those children deserve that gym,” I tell him quietly.
“Exactly.”
“But no one deserves anything enough for me to sell myself to you.”
His face darkens.
“You'll regret that.”
“Maybe.”
I point toward the door.
“But you'll regret staying.”
“Mary—”
“GET OUT!”
* * *
Instead of leaving, this sleazeball starts wandering around my classroom.
Looking at student artwork.
At the tiny chairs.