Calculus of the Heart

Chapter 5

POV Ms. Reynolds

Monday mornings always start with a cup of coffee and a review of the week's lesson plans. Yet, as I walk into my classroom today, there's a different feeling in the air. Maybe it's anticipation, or maybe it's the thought of seeing Ella Sullivan, who never fails to make her presence known in my class.

I sit at my desk, adjusting my papers and trying to push aside the flutter of nerves that seem unusual for me. The classroom is quiet, a moment of peace before students start filtering in.

Just as I'm about to begin my day, the door swings open, and Ella Sullivan strolls in, exuding her usual confidence. Today, she's wearing a T-shirt that reads, "Math? I'm Here for the Drama." Her choice of attire is amusing, and I can't help but smile at the irony.

"Good morning, Ms. Reynolds," she calls out, her voice cheerful and light.

"Good morning, Ms. Sullivan," I reply, keeping my tone professional even though I find her presence uplifting. The rest of the class fills the room, and I begin with our lesson on quadratic equations.

Ella seems unusually focused today. She takes notes diligently, her eyes occasionally flicking up to meet mine with a mischievous glint. Despite my attempts to remain impartial, I find myself drawn to her humor and clever remarks.

"Ms. Sullivan, why don't you solve this equation for us on the board?" I suggest halfway through the lesson, curious to see how she'll handle it.

She stands up with an air of confidence, moving to the front of the class. As she writes, I can see her processing each step, her concentration almost tangible.

"Look at me, Ms. Reynolds. Doing math and everything," she quips as she writes, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Maybe I'll be a mathlete by next week."

Her classmates chuckle, and I suppress a smile.

"Good work," I say when she finishes, nodding in approval. "You're getting there. Just watch those signs."

Ella returns to her seat, a small, satisfied smile on her lips. I watch her, admiring her ability to lighten the mood while still taking things seriously. It's hard not to appreciate her spirit.

As the bell rings to signal the end of class, I call out to her. "Ms. Sullivan, could you stay for a moment?"

She pauses, hesitant at first, but then nods shortly and joins me.

"Do I get another round of detention?" she asks with a smirk, referencing our earlier encounters. "Or are you just thrilled to have my company?"

I roll my eyes playfully at her boldness. "No detention today. I just wanted to talk about your progress."

Her eyes flicker with amusement, and she leans against a desk, crossing her arms. "Ah, my dazzling math skills?"

"Something like that," I say, meeting her gaze. "I noticed you were particularly focused today, and it's good to see. You have potential, Ella, more than you give yourself credit for."

She nods, the humor fading from her expression as she considers my words. "Thanks, Ms. Reynolds. I've been trying to step it up. I guess I'm learning more than I thought."

There's a moment of silence between us, a quiet understanding passing unspoken. Her presence is comforting, her wit engaging, and I find myself more interested in her than I probably should be.

"Last week was...interesting," Ella says, breaking the silence, her eyes searching mine as if probing for something unsaid.

"It was," I reply, recalling our unexpected conversation at the bar and the shared moment of connection.

Ella gives me a curious look, as if debating whether to delve deeper into that memory. Instead, she shifts her focus back to the classroom. "So, any advice for acing this week's math drama?"

I smile, appreciating her way of keeping things light. "Just keep doing what you're doing. Focus, practice, and ask questions if you're stuck."

"Got it. Thanks for not giving me detention," she says with a wink.

"I wouldn't dream of it," I reply, amused by her confidence.

Ella gathers her things, and I watch her go, feeling a mix of admiration and curiosity. There's something about her that captivates me, a blend of humor and intelligence that makes her unique.

As the classroom empties, I return to my desk, trying to refocus on the tasks at hand.

• • •

After school, I gather my belongings and head to the faculty parking lot. The sun is shining, and I feel a sense of contentment after a productive day. My classes went better than expected, and I'm looking forward to settling into my new home.

Moving to a new town has been a whirlwind, but I am beginning to appreciate the change. The neighborhood is charming, and my house is a cozy retreat, though I'm still surrounded by unpacked boxes.

As I drive down the tree-lined streets, I think about the upcoming week and how I can help my students engage more deeply with math. Ella's progress gives me hope that I can reach others, too.

I pull into my driveway, feeling a sense of calm. The house is a modest colonial, surrounded by a lush green lawn and tall oaks. It's peaceful here, a perfect contrast to the bustling school environment.

Just as I'm getting out of the car, I hear a bark and look up to see Ella walking her dog down the street. The golden retriever bounds happily at her side, tail wagging.

"Ms. Reynolds!" Ella calls out, waving as she approaches.

"Hello, Ella," I reply, surprised to see her in the neighborhood. "What brings you here?"

Ella grins, patting her dog on the head. "Max here needed a walk, and I figured I'd take him around the block. Didn't know we were neighbors."

"What are the chances," I say, amused by the coincidence. "How's Max doing?"

"Full of energy, as always," she replies, watching as he sniffs around the yard. "Looks like you're settling in."

"Trying to," I admit, glancing at the boxes still in the garage. "Moving is always a challenge."

Ella tilts her head, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. "Need any help? I'm pretty good at unpacking."

I laugh, appreciating her offer. "I might take you up on that. It's mostly books and kitchen stuff, but an extra pair of hands wouldn't hurt."

She nods, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. "So, do you always move into a new town right before the school year starts, or is that a special talent?"

"Just lucky timing," I say with a shrug. "I wanted a fresh start, and this seemed like a good place."

Ella smiles, her humor infectious. "Well, if you need someone to show you around, I'm your girl."

"I'll keep that in mind," I reply, feeling a warmth in her friendliness.

Max tugs on the leash, eager to continue his exploration, and Ella gives me a playful salute. "Guess I better get going. Nice chatting with you, Ms. Reynolds. And please let me know when I can come and help."

"You too, Ella. And I will. Have a good evening," I say, watching as she and Max head down the street.

Deciding against tackling any more boxes, I head to the kitchen and prepare a simple dinner. I make a sandwich and brew a pot of tea. The process is calming, a small respite from the chaos of moving. As I sit down at the table with my meal, I find myself thinking about what my life will look like from now on.

I reach for the locket that hangs around my neck, its weight comforting yet painful. I touch it gently, memories flooding to the surface. It's strange how a simple piece of jewelry can carry so much emotion.

Five years ago, I had a daughter, a husband and a house to come home to everyday. Now, I don't have any of that anymore. I have a house, yes. But it's not home.