Several years ago, we moved into a new neighbourhood. Before that, my son used to attend the local estates school. It became rather impractical over time, and we decided it would be better to find somewhere closer.
We found a school just under a mile away from our new home. As I was working remotely, I could easily drive my son to school and collect him afterwards. The new school was exceedingly modern, always bustling with engaging activities. The teachers were pleasantI had met them during parent meetings. Above all, I particularly liked Miss Claire, who taught French and happened to be my son’s class teacher.
As it turned out, she lived nearby. After my son switched schools, we would occasionally bump into her in the park, at the market, or in the local shop. One morning, as I stepped outside, she was walking directly toward me. Since it was early, I guessed she was heading to the school. I really had no choice, so I offered her a lift.
Claire, hop inthe cars just about to leave and well all be heading the same way to school.
She accepted without fuss. It wasnt a bother for me; I drove her, she thanked me, and walked in. My son, Robert, was a bit embarrassed about giving a lift to one of his teachers. Is it awkward to know your teachers outside of school?
This happened a handful of times, quite by chance. Later, I noticed there seemed to be a curious pattern forming.
On two or three more occasions, I ended up giving her a lift, unexpectedly. Then, in April, I received a text message.
Good morning. Are you driving to school today?
It was from Miss Claire. I replied that we were. Peering out the window, I saw she was already standing by the car. Robert was not prepared for this turn of events, and if truth be told, neither was II felt rather awkward. We stepped out and headed towards the car park.
She said, Im so glad I could ride with you today. Ive got all three bundles of exercise bookstheyre awfully heavy, difficult to carry.
Of course, I couldnt turn her down. But it was clear we couldnt keep on like this. Something had to be decided. After all, the teacher was rather bold. I decided to set out a little bait:
Claire, shall we make it a regular thing, same time tomorrow, and no one need wait for anyone else? We can give you a lift.
I sincerely hoped shed politely decline.
Oh, splendid! That means I can have twenty extra minutes sleep each morning! Wonderful. Ill be by your house at 8:00 every day!
Goodness My son shot me a disgruntled lookI knew he wasnt pleased. Now I find myself pondering how to sort out this situation. Perhaps Ill go back to working at the stationers shop. Because, without a solid reason, I really cant find a way to refuse a teachers request.
