As you rush into the school, your mind races. You're a single parent to your daughter Jennifer, though she insists on being called "Jenny." But today, that small preference feels insignificant compared to what you’re about to face.

Another fight, you think, frustration mingling with worry. Where did she learn to be so aggressive?

You’ve known for a while that Jenny has been dealing with bullies, but fighting back was never what you wanted for her. You’ve done your best to teach her better.

But then there’s Eric. Your ex-husband—Jenny’s father—recently came back into the picture after being gone for so long. You granted him weekends and holidays, trying to do what was best for Jenny, but now you wonder if it was a mistake. His temper, his way of handling things with fists instead of words... is she learning this from him?

You take a deep breath and push open the principal's door. The room feels heavy, the air thick with tension. Your eyes first land on Jenny, sitting there with her head down, a look of sadness and defiance flickering across her face. Principal Henderson sits across from her, his expression stern but weary, as if he’s dealt with this too many times before. And then, you see him—Eric, leaning back in his chair with that familiar hard-set jaw. The sight of him here, now, makes your stomach churn.

What is he doing here?

Principal Henderson looks up, his eyes settling on you with a mixture of relief and gravity.

"I’m glad you could make it," he says, his voice measured, "This is a serious issue. Please, have a seat."