Page 87 of The Headmaster’s Rule

“We could get the kids involved in that,” she suggests. “Create artworks, share stories, read poems, that sort of thing.”

Theo frowns at this, unconvinced, and Danny senses his hesitation, seamlessly stepping in.

“We’ll pre-approve everything before they go on stage.”

A begrudging nod from the headmaster, then he casts his gaze warily around the group. “I’m sure you’re all aware we’re under extra scrutiny after last year,” he says. “Everything needs to run without a hitch. No surprises.”

I soften, resisting the urge to reach out to him. “Of course. Please don’t worry.”

Juliana snorts a laugh into her coffee. “He’d have nothing to do if he didn’t worry.”

I ignore her, steering the conversation back on track. “I’ve assigned you all different roles based on your strengths,” I say, pulling another bunch of documents from my binder, listed with the various tasks required of each role. There’s a nervous flicker in my stomach as I turn to the assistant head. “I’m thinking volunteer and community outreach for you, Danny?” I hand him the sheet with the details he’ll need, and he takes it, scanning his eyes down the list, nodding.

“Sure thing, boss.”

A laugh slips from me as I breathe out. I’ve never been the boss of anything, but as I catch the gleam of pride in Theo’s eyes, my spine straightens. I’m doing this. I’m running this meeting, making Safe Harbor happen.

The next sheet goes to Rowan, and I’m more confident this time. “You’ll be in charge of student contributions and creative elements. I think you could bring a lot to the student art and music side of things.”

He scans the page, fingers absently grazing the leather cord at his neck as he nods. “I can do that.” He tucks the sheet into the back of his sketchbook, his gaze drifting in thought.

“Jules.” I turn to my friend, and she raises a brow. “I’m thinking decor, theme, visual design stuff for you. Thoughts?”

“Definitely.” She takes the paper from me with a grin. “You know my strengths.”

“And I know your weaknesses,” Theo interjects. “You’ll need to stay on budget, Juliana. No exceptions.”

She huffs in irritation. “If you want elegance—”

“We want a professional event without blowing the bank,” he says firmly.

Her cheeks color, and she deflates a little under her father’s criticism. I feel for her as I remember our conversation from the tiki bar. He is hard on her.

“Jules has a great eye,” I say, trying to be diplomatic. “I trust her to keep the evening aligned with the values of Safe Harbor.” Looking at Theo, I add wryly, “And with the budget.”

He’s quiet for a moment, then nods once, eyes on the table. “I trust your judgment.”

There’s a beat of silence as Rowan glances between us, Danny leaning forward with interest. Theo doesn’t offer his trust lightly, and he almost never backs down, and I suspect they know it too.

Juliana blinks, lips parting slightly, as if surprised by the vote of confidence. I pull out the next sheet of paper, trying to get us back on track.

“Paige, I’d love to get you handling communications, logistics, and admin.”

She takes the paper from me with a nod. “Of course. Whatever you need.”

“That leaves Headmaster Wright to stay on top of items such as compliance, liaising with the board, and”—my gaze flicks to him as I stifle a smile—“budget.”

“All the fun stuff he loves,” Danny says with a chuckle.

“And I’ll oversee the event, keep everyone on schedule, and take care of any other details.” I exhale, relieved we’re almost done. “Any questions or concerns?”

“There’s still a lot to do,” Juliana says, flipping the page, but her father silences her with a look.

“I think we need to take a moment to appreciate how much work Miss Hart has already done on this. She’s spent many late nights working hard—”

Juliana smirks to herself.

“—and without Nora,” Theo continues, “there would be no Safe Harbor, no fundraiser.”