Chapter 41

Clara didn't notice the subtle tension in the air. She glanced up and saw Aaron waving her over with a warm smile. "Clara, come sit here." Ryan, sitting nearby, immediately snapped back to attention and quickly pulled out the chair beside him. "Sit here, Ms. Salford," he said enthusiastically. Relieved by everyone's friendliness, Clara smiled and took a seat. Ethan followed her and sat in the empty chair to her left while Ryan settled on her right. "I'm Ryan Chase," Ryan introduced himself with an eager smile, gesturing to Nina next to him. "This is Nina Foster. Like you, we're here at Moonbay Elementary School for voluntary teaching." Nina forced a polite smile and gave Clara a quick nod. Ryan continued, pointing across the table, "That's Laura Price," he said, motioning to a middle-aged woman with glasses. "And Frank Miller," he added, indicating the man sitting next to her. Clara greeted everyone warmly and gave a brief introduction about herself. When she was done, Nina lo