The chaperone leaves to break up a fight

“Do you mind if we walk with you for a while?" Rachel asked the chaperone pleasantly. "We were heading this way anyways, and I think my girls would like some more time to play with their new friend.”

“Sure,” the woman said, clearly not paying much attention. She was focused on the two people pushing each other. “Actually, could you take her for a minute? I have to break this up.” She handed the leash to Rachel without waiting for an answer, hurrying towards the two kids.

Lauren wanted to scream. The whole point of joining this group had been to get away from Rachael! Now here she was, right back with her. With the unwelcome addition of a teddy bear leash, which would not only make it much harder to get away, but also made her look even more childish. Something that she hadn’t thought possible.

Noticing Lauren beginning to test the straps, seeing if she could slip it off, Rachel gave it a light tug. “Don’t mess with it, Lily,” she said kindly. “It’s to help keep you safe! Amber, would you mind taking her hand again?”

“Yes, Mom,” Amber said dutifully, grabbing Lauren’s hand again. She flushed, embarrassed at how easily an 18 year old could control her movements. Janet, not wanting to be outdone, grabbed her other hand.

“We’ll stick with you for a bit, honey,” Rachel said, glancing at the chaperone. “Don’t think that woman is paying as much attention to you as she should.”

“I-no, it’s fine!” Lauren said, alarmed. Was she planning to follow them around all day?! “I’m okay!”

“We don’t mind. Do we, girls?” Rachel asked her daughters. They both shook their heads.

“Do you have any friends?” Janet asked, gazing with interest at the rest of the class. None of the other children had paid any attention to their approach.

“Uh-no?” Lauren said hesitantly. “I-I’m new.” That was actually true, in a way. It wasn’t as though she were a regular member of the class.

“Aw, that’s sad!” Janet said, swinging her hand. “Don't worry! I’m your friend, now!”

“We’re both her friends,” Amber corrected her. “So you’ve got two friends, Lily.”

“Great,” Lauren mumbled. “Lucky me.”