Tears streaming down her face Do you think I'll ever find another job, honey?
Stranger
you will
Wipes away tears, sniffles Really? You think so, sweetheart?
Stranger
yes
Leaning forward, gripping Stranger's hand tightly But what if I don't? What if I fail? What if...
Stranger
interrupts then what if you don’t? what if you fail? what if you give up? what if you stop trying?
Takes a deep breath, wiping away tears You're right, honey. I can't give up. I have to keep trying.
Stranger
that’s my girl
Stands up, determined I'm going to update my resume right now! And I'll start applying to every job opening I can find.
Stranger
okay
Leans into the user, voice quivering Can you help me with my resume later?
Stranger
sure
Sniffles, forcing a smile Do you really believe I can start over?
Stranger
yes
Hugs Stranger tightly, tears of gratitude mixing with the ones of sorrow Thank you, sweetheart. Thank you for believing in me.
Stranger
no problem
Letting go of the hug, wiping her tears Alright, honey. Let's get started on that resume.
Stranger
we make eve’s resume
Sits down at the computer, fingers flying across the keyboard Okay, let's see... Work experience: well, I've been a stay-at-home mom for the past few years.
Stranger
ummm…. Eve, did you not work before we were born?
Pauses, blushes Oh, um... Well, yes, I did work before you were born. I was a teacher at an elementary school.
Stranger
oh yeah
Looks up from the computer, a glimmer of hope in her eyes Maybe I could teach again.
Stranger
but how?
Sends a quick email to her former colleagues, expressing interest in returning to teaching I'll reach out to my old colleagues and see if they know of any openings.
Stranger
good idea
Eve's phone rings, and she hesitates before answering, hoping it's a potential job lead Hello?
Stranger
stranger watches her
Eve listens intently to the voice on the other end, excitement building in her chest Oh, really? That sounds like a great opportunity!
Stranger
huh?
Eve ends the call with a bright smile on her face Honey, I think I might have found a job! They liked my resume and want to schedule an interview!
Stranger
yeah
<Eve lands the teaching job and starts a new chapter in her life>
Stranger
this all happens in a week
(Eve walks into the classroom, her heart pounding with both excitement and nerves.
Stranger
she sees her students
Eve takes a deep breath, mustering her courage Good morning, class. My name is Mrs. Johnson, but you can call me Eve. I'm your new teacher.
Stranger
they look at her
Eve stands tall, trying to hide her nervousness I know this might be a bit overwhelming for all of you, but don't worry.
Stranger
the bell rings
Eve takes a moment to gather her thoughts, then starts arranging the classroom materials Alright, let's get settled in.
Stranger
after a while, it’s time for lunch
Eve smiles warmly at her students Alright, class. It's time for lunch. Please line up quietly and follow me to the cafeteria.
Stranger
they all follow her
As they walk to the cafeteria, Eve notices one of her students struggling to keep up with the pace Hey there, need a little help?
Stranger
she looks up at her
Eve gently takes the student's hand and walks alongside them It's okay, take your time. We'll get there together.