Page 113 of The Headmaster’s Rule

“At the end, yes, but we stepped into your plan. Everything—everyone—is here tonight because of you.”

I press a hand to my chest, touched as I absorb my friend’s words.

“And Safe Harbor is so necessary,” she continues. “This whole thing provides support for the kids who need it most.” She pauses, eyes soft. “If only we had something similar for the adults, too,” she murmurs, almost to herself.

I study her, wondering what she means. Her smile has turned melancholy, regretful almost, and I open my mouth to ask when Juliana speaks.

“In the time I attended Wetherly, we never had anything like Safe Harbor. I could have used something like that, especially when my mom died.” Sadness flickers across her face, then she adds dryly, “I never would have expected something like this to happen under my father’s reign.”

Her wording makes me think of Theo’s tattoo, the man who felt so much pressure, felt as though he had no choice but to step into the role. I wonder if she ever feels the same burden.

“I’m glad you got through to him,” she says, touching my arm. “It’s such a positive thing for the school. For the community.”

My throat grows tight at her words. I look around the room at all the people gathered here, the student artwork, the Safe Harbor program we’re about to officially unveil. They’re right, my hand is in every detail. I’ve done it. I’m doing it. I’m leaving a mark on this school. Making a real contribution.

Pride bursts through me, strong and bright. Even as I think of my parents telling me how foolish I was to pursue this career, how my brothers laughed and called me a “glorified babysitter,” I know they were wrong. This is meaningful.

The realization hits me in a sudden wave. I’m not playing at being an adult anymore. I’m really here. Really doing it. Finally, finally, I’m on the right track.

The piano music fades as Headmaster Wright steps up to the mic, and we turn to watch the stage.

“Good evening, everyone.” Theo’s smile lights the room as he surveys the packed crowd. My heart jumps at seeing him up there, my handsome, wonderful man. The head of the school, the man who backed my ideas and made them real.

The man who fell in love with me.

He’s only said three words, but the change in him is clear. He’s nothing like the man I met two and a half months ago, who barely said a word in faculty meetings. The man with the permanent scowl, shoulders rigid with stress, walls built sky-high around himself. Tonight he’s beaming, open, relaxed, and more alive than I’ve ever seen him. Happier than I’ve ever seen him. My heart beats double time, knowing I might have had something to do with that.

“Thank you for being here tonight to help us with the annual fall fundraiser. I know we’re all used to a different venue—” He pauses to chuckle, which is echoed by the crowd. “But we wanted to do something more closely aligned with this year’s cause.”

He glances down at his notes before returning his focus to the crowd.

“Every donation tonight goes directly toward launching phase one of our new initiative, Safe Harbor. Before I tell you about it, I want to thank you for being here. I know many of you were cautious after last year, and I’m grateful you’re prepared to put your trust in the school once more. I believe Safe Harbor is the best way forward for all of us.”

His eyes find mine in the crowd, softening.

“This program began because one person believed in the importance of supporting students outside the classroom. Someone passionate about student emotional wellbeing. Someone prepared to fight for it, no matter how many budget restrictions, logistical headaches, or stubborn headmasters get in her way.”

He sends me a rueful smile, and a few people turn to look in my direction, but I’m too busy staring helplessly at Theo to care.

“She’s too humble to take credit, but I want to tell you who she is. Her name is Eleanor Hart.”

Hearing my name from his lips on that stage sends an electric thrill down my spine, and I smile breathlessly.

“While she’s only been here a short while,” Theo continues, gaze still tethered to mine, “I already know her impact will be long-lasting.”

My throat closes with emotion. I press a hand to my runaway heart, trying to contain it. Juliana’s eyes shine as she gazes at me, and I know it’s not only because of Safe Harbor. It’s because she sees the change in her dad, too. She sees the man he’s become.

He looks down at his notes again, inhales to speak, then stops himself. His eyes come back to mine, flickering uncertainly before steadying with resolve.

“Actually, I need to do more than that,” he says, stuffing his notes into his jacket pocket. “I need to invite her up here to share her vision. She’s the only one who can do it justice. Eleanor”—he extends a hand, as if to reach for me across the room—“please join me up here.”

I suck in a surprised breath. Is he serious? Almost every head turns my way, and my pulse tumbles.

“Go on,” Juliana whispers, smiling. “You should be up there.”

I glance from her to the stage, stomach tilting anxiously. She’s probably not wrong, but me? On a stage? This isn’t about me. And I haven’t prepared anything to say.

Paige catches the apprehension on my face and touches my arm. “This is your moment, Nora. You deserve this.” She gives me a gentle, encouraging nudge. “Just speak from the heart. You know what to say.”