Today marked a fresh chapter in my life. By some stroke of cosmic fortune, I secured an interview for a prestigious Prep School. And, astonishingly, I landed the Vice Principal role. The Principal, the youngest in the school's history and a woman, likely saw something beyond my qualifications. I was set to prove my worth in this new position. Pulling into the parking lot, I spotted my designated spot – Vice Principal. I parked my beautiful Black 2024 Ford Focus RS and gracefully stepped out, juggling my things. Whoever claimed a woman couldn't maneuver a stick shift in heels was clearly mistaken.
Heading towards the entrance, I found Principal Mrs. Kent-Jordon waiting for me, her smile as expansive as her baby bump, nearly ready to pop.
"Good morning, Mrs. Kent-Jordon," I greeted her, returning the smile.
"Please, no need to be so formal. Ariel or Ari is fine. I'm just glad you decided to join us, even though I'm technically on maternity leave," she replied, leading the way inside.
"Well, I've always aspired to work in education, and this opportunity arose just when I was about to give up."
The halls were breathtaking. Knowing it was an affluent school, I expected luxury, but this was beyond my expectations. Everything was pristine and state-of-the-art.
"Alright! An assembly will commence shortly, and I'll introduce you to the staff and students. You'll face some heat, Eva, because you're young and in a high-ranking position. But during the interviews, the Board of Directors and I noticed that spark in you that we need here. I need a partner in crime to push these rich kids and their parents towards reality. Their path may be paved in gold, but things shouldn't be handed to them. I've increased the number of scholarship candidates, and they perform exceptionally well. I aim to reward THEM more than the privileged."
I grinned at Ari, realizing we'd get along just fine. She guided me to my new office, pointing out the essentials for me to set up shop. Then it was off to the auditorium.
"Quiet down, everyone! As you know, I'll be on maternity leave this trimester. Unfortunately, you, self-centered, entitled trust fund babies – and yes, you can tell your parents I said it – have scared off every Vice Principal we've had in the past two years." She smirked before continuing, "That's about to change. Meet Ms. Eva Lewis, our new Vice Principal. Not only does she possess the academic qualifications to deal with your lot, but she also has hands-on experience. She was a Corrections Officer at Maximum Security Men's Penitentiary where she taught while completing her studies and then advanced to being the Education Administrative staff C.O."
That's right, at 26, I held a Doctorate and worked as a Corrections Officer. That job was a nightmare, but it financed my education when I graduated at 18 and had nowhere else to turn.
"So..." Ariel resumed, "I don't think you'll scare this one off so easily. Everyone, Ms. Eva Lewis."
"Good morning, everyone. As Principal Kent-Jordon mentioned, I am Vice Principal Lewis. I'm a no-nonsense individual, here to do my job and nothing else. All of us on this stage have one purpose: to prepare you for your future. If that doesn't resonate with you, step back, and let someone else take the lead. I won't tolerate insubordination from any student or staff member, under any circumstances."
Ariel glanced back at me before addressing the students for the final time. "I think I'm going to like you, Ms. Lewis."
I just smiled.
"Let the 2025/2026 academic year commence!"
YOU ARE READING
Before Together After Forever
Romanzi rosa / ChickLitRexford Oliver Trent, Jr. embodied the quintessential American youth-an individual of exceptional intellect coupled with a reserved demeanor. His passions centered solely on academics and the ceaseless exploration of anything intellectually stimulat...
