He Accused Me Of Stealing But I Heard The Truth Chapter 51
After the activity, the other parents took their children into the hallway for snacks. He remained seated, waiting for us to approach.
“Your drawing was very good,” he said to Maisie.
“Maria’s bread was the best part,” she replied.
“Yes.”
She dug a fruit candy out of her pocket.
“Do you still have the one from last time?”
Derek nodded.
“It’s in a box at home.”
“Candy goes bad.”
“I know.”
“Then why didn’t you eat it?”
He was silent for a moment.
“Because it was the first thing you ever gave me.”
Maisie wrinkled her nose.
“But presents are supposed to be used. That’s wasteful.”
Derek laughed, a broken sound, even as a tear escaped and slid down his cheek.
He lowered his head immediately and wiped it away.
Maisie watched him for a moment, then took one small step forward.
“You didn’t keep asking today.”
“I remembered what you said.”
She opened her arms.
Derek didn’t move.
He just looked at her, waiting.
Only after Maisie nodded did he crouch down and gently gather her into his arms.
His shoulders shook the entire time.
[Don’t hold on too tight. You’ll scare her.]