The nurse arrives

A busty black haired woman in white nurse uniform arrives a few minutes later. She glances around the room, then quickly moves to the couch and knees beside the sobbing girl. She and Ms. Naylor exchange a few quite words before the headmistress rises, a look of concern on her face.

"This meeting is suspended for the moment. If your schedules allow we can continue it tomorrow, but I think it best that, given the circumstances we stop here for now."

"Why can't this nurse take Valerie somewhere?" her father says. You see both Brian and Kyle tense, their anger at the man mirroring your own, but before anyone can speak the nurse turns and snaps at him.

"If I take Valerie out of here in this condition it will be all over the school in twenty minutes and she'll be the subject of gossip and most likely harassment. She's staying here until I determine what to do. And you can all get out now," she glares around the room, but her main scorn is directed at Valerie's father.

"Quite right," Ms. Naylor says before anyone can react. She steps to her office door and holds it open, her face a command to leave. For a moment the man seems inclined to argue the point, but his resolve weakens as he glances around seeing no support. Taking his young wife's arm he exits the room, trying to muster as much dignity as possible. The rest of you follow, and the Headmistress shuts the door of her office and faces the group.

"You are welcome to join the students and faculty for dinner if you choose. There are a few decent places to stay in town, and Miss Holliday," she nods at her white haired secretary, "will be happy to make arrangements for you if you intend to spend the night."

"I'll make my own arrangements," Valerie's father says petulantly.

"As you wish. We can meet tomorrow at noon, if that suits you."

"I want to meet earlier," he says with the same petulant tone as both his wife and his ex-wife roll their eyes, the latter more obviously.

"Noon. This school and these teachers are responsible more than one student and one set of parents. We will meet at noon, with any or all of you who see fit to attend. Until that time, or until dinner if you choose to join us, I bid you all good day."

With a snort, the father strides out, followed by his young wife who glances back for a moment before leaving. Valerie's mother nods to each of you, holding out her hand.

"Thank you for your concern for my daughter. I very much appreciate it. And thank you for the invitation to dinner, but I think it might be best for Valerie if her parents aren't in evidence on the first day of school. I already booked accommodations, so I won't be needing assistance. Until tomorrow." She smiles at each of you before departing.

The headmistress expels a long breath, shaking her head.

"That man brings out the worst in me. No wonder his daughter has behavioural issues. Thank you for your support gentlemen. And your professionalism."

"From where I stand it looks like you could have handled that bunch on your own," Brian smiles. "Well done." You and Kyle murmur agreements, and the young headmistress blushes slightly and nods.

"Thank you. And thank you again for your support. Dean Hawkfeather, if I might have a quick word?"

Taking your cue, you step to the door, Brian pausing to look back at her for a moment before following you into the corridor, shutting the door behind him.

You're surprised to see Deboarah Cummins standing a few yards away, obviously waiting.