On the surface

Cindy's mind was going a million miles an hour, even if her blank face said the opposite. As the classroom filled with students ready to start the day, she wondered if they could see past what was on the surface. If years of teaching had taught her anything, it's that kids are much more preceptive than their parents give them credit for.

Despite her thoughts, Cindy does her best to get on with her work day. She managed to make it to lunch before Jessica said something. "Cindy?"

"Oh. Hey Jessica."

"I uhh... don't mean to pry, but are you alright?"

Cindy's eyes darted to the window as she nodded. "Yeah. Just a little all over right now, but I'm good."

"Look, all I'm saying is if you wanna talk, I'm always here to listen."

"Of course. Appreciate it Jess."

The two eat lunch before going on with the rest of the day. When it came time for the parents to pick up their children, she turned her attention away from the work she was marking to Spencer. She had no doubt Spencer was an incredible man who was compassionate as he was handsome, but that was on the surface. She remembered back to Jack, the man who had proposed to her, and the man whose heart she had broken when she said 'No'. He'd been so certain, but there were so many small things that added up to her doubt for a long-term relationship.

There were also bitter memories of her parent's divorce. Ten years of happiness that went down the drain when her mother's affair was uncovered. The aftermath had been burned firmly into her mind, from the shouting matches to the tears her father shed.

"So how was school today?" Spencer asked Amy.

"Uhh pretty good, but uh... Miss Lynn seemed a little off today."

"Off as in?"

"I dunno. Just tired I guess."

"Right. Maybe she stayed up late."

"I guess..." Amy remained silent for a second. "This isn't about you two dating is it?"

With a sigh, Spencer realized there was no avoiding the situation. "Look, me and Miss Lynn are... uh... friendly I guess you could say."

"Friends with benefits."

Spencer winced at his little angel's statement, certain that she understands what she's saying.

"I... uh guess it's none of my business."

"Look, whatever happens, I will always love Mom."

"I know Dad. It's okay."

"Yeah but I want you to know that, okay?"

"Okay. Whatever you two do it's cool okay? None of my business. Fair?"

"Fair." Spencer said, wondering how long that would remain true.