She stared down at the highly polished linoleum floor and then up at the display cases filled with photos of smiling faces. Students holding trophies aloft for wins in sports, music, science fair and other academic achievements. A sharp pain pierced her heart. It wasn’t because Hunter’s picture wasn’t there and it wasn’t because she’d never have a bumper sticker on her car that said I am the Proud Parent of an Honor Roll Student. It was because all of the faces looking out at her were happy. Hunter was so far from happy that it was breaking her heart. The office door opened and the principal, Gary Folger, walked out with his hand on Hunter’s shoulder. “So tomorrow’s a new day, Hunter, with a chance to make it a great day.” Hunter’s head was bowed. “Yes, sir.” “So you write your apology letter to Mrs. Ambrose tonight and bring it with you tomorrow.” “Yes, sir,” Hunter mumbled as he tried to edge away from the principal’s hand. “Good man. I’ll look forward to reading it.”
