105- Gaby's Daddy

Gaby was escorted to school today by both her mother and Mr. Love. Ms. Jackson, who has olive skin and green eyes just like Gaby, had an arm slung around Mr. Love’s waist like it was the most natural thing in the world.
“Morning, Teacher!” Mr. Love casually tilted his chin in my direction.
“Good morning, Sir!” I mimicked the custodian’s nonchalant gesture.
Gaby ran up to me excitedly. “Guess what! Guess what!” She tugged on my arm.
“What?” I asked.
“My Momma got me a new daddy and guess who my new daddy is!”
Oh, brother.
“Mr. Love?” I guessed.
“Yes! Mr. Love is my new daddy!” Gaby jumped and clapped her hands. “How did you know?”
Because he gropes your mother every morning when she drops you off at school.
“Just a lucky guess!” I smiled at the little girl and then shot a questioning look in Mr. Love’s direction.
“It’s true!” Mr. Love proudly held the woman’s hand in the air, showing off the small chip of a diamond attached to a gold ring.
“We are engaged. We’re getting married! Mr. Love here will be Gaby’s step-daddy pretty soon now.” Ms. Jackson reiterated.
“Congratulations!” If Gaby was happy, I was happy.
After the couple left the classroom, Gaby went around and told anyone who would listen that Mr. Love would soon be her daddy.
While Gaby distracted her classmates, I took the time to write a quick email to Mr. Thorpe. I apologized for walking in on his meeting with Ms. Viamonte, and then I explained my desire to collect donations for Demarcus’ family. I feel confidant that, with the support of the guidance counselor, I will be able to do something to help Demarcus.