“Surely you’re not considering this offer.” “I’m putting it on the table for family discussion.” The girls appeared stunned into silence. “You have another year on your contract here,” Chessie protested. “And that contract releases me if I accept a better offer. The Atlanta offer is much better. A promotion. A big salary increase.” “But how could you leave here now? The school year’s about to begin.” “We’re as ready as we’ll ever be. And Eleanor’s ready to assume a principal’s position. It’s only a matter of time before some system lures her away. It would be better for Coastal High if she were promoted here. As for the assistant’s position she’d vacate, there’s a whole new crop of teachers who’ve acquired their administrative certificates since spring. There wouldn’t be a problem filling her spot.” “It sounds like you’ve made up your mind.” Isabel’s voice was small, her eyes troubled. “No, hon, I haven’t. I want this to be a family decision.”
