Chapter 2 A New Face in the Class

"I sincerely apologize for the experience you had, Miss. I assure you that such incidents will never happen again in the future." After the truth comes to light, the manager reports everything to the police, and George is fired.

"This is a gift, please accept it," the manager hands a supermarket gift card to Ella. "I appreciate your apology. Can I know where the gentleman from earlier is? I would like to thank him in person." "Are you referring to Mr. Hastings? I'm sorry, he left when the police arrived, and I don't have his contact information."

Upon returning home, Ella finds herself consumed by thoughts of the earlier encounter. She can't help but feel a sense of longing and anticipation for Mr. Hastings, as her heart overflows with emotions. She finds herself unable to calm her thoughts. His charm and actions have deeply moved Ella, leaving her unable to resist envisioning his appearance, voice, and their conversation. The memories keep playing on a loop in her mind. It is the first time someone has stood up for her, and she is filled with joy and gratitude, as this new and exhilarating feeling overwhelms her. Ella tosses and turns in bed, unable to fall asleep.

The next day, Sara hears that George has lost his job. She approaches Ella with a slightly different expression, lacking the usual mockery and provocation. Instead, a blend of curiosity and excitement is apparent in her demeanor.

"I heard George lost his job at the supermarket," Sara says, her tone betraying her curiosity. "Seems like you were involved, huh?"

Ella is uncertain about Sara's true intentions. However, she chooses to be cautious and not easily disclose her emotions

"Yes, something happened yesterday," Ella replies, her voice laced with caution. "But I don't think it's a big deal. I just want to resolve it and move on."

Sara offers a faint smile, appearing somewhat taken aback by Ella's determination and composure. Her curiosity compels her to probe further.

"Do you know why George lost his job?" Sara inquires, her eyes shining with curiosity.

Ella avoids giving a direct answer. She considers the question too sensitive and not something she can easily discuss with Sara. Opting for silence, she avoids prolonging the conversation.

Her tone carrying a hint of indifference, Ella replies, "I don't really feel like diving into that right now. I just want to keep moving forward and not get tangled up in unnecessary drama."

Sara picks up on Ella's distant and cautious demeanor, realizing that pushing for more information would likely be fruitless. She temporarily gives up on the conversation and turns away. Ella breathes a sigh of relief; she turns away and walks towards her classroom.

Upon stepping into the classroom, the teacher stands at the front of the podium and shares some significant news, "Hey, everyone! We have a new student joining us today. Let's give a warm welcome to Loren Hastings!" Ella's heart races as she hears the name, her eyes filled with delight. She looks towards the classroom door and sees a familiar face walking in—Mr. Hastings, the one who saved her at the supermarket yesterday. Now she knows his full name is Loren Hastings.