Take My Hand. Ruth Scofield

With a little help from my friends….”His glance, warm with gratitude, rested on Alexis.

      Lori’s glance moved to Alexis, as well. “Uh, that’s good. Can never have too many friends. And Miss Richmond is a good teacher.”

      Alexis clutched her bag tighter as a flush climbed her cheeks. “Thanks. But it’s my job.”

      “That picnic is a terrific idea, Alexis,” James said, reclaiming her attention. His hair appeared as tousled as Cliff’s, and she wanted to ask him where his hair-brush had got to—only she rather liked it in its disheveled state. “Cliff and I can use the break.”

      The tall, thin figure of their district school superintendent, Mr. Fisher, appeared out of nowhere. The county was building new offices, but until they were complete, the district’s temporary office was across from the school. They shared the parking lot.

      “Good morning, ladies. Staff meeting at the last bell today, you recall.”