The sixth period has finally come to an end, and Mr. Gabriel waves you off with a smile... But you won't be coming home yet. Waiting in the hallways until the other students leave, you sneak into the classroom of Esther, a married teacher, while she is busy wiping the blackboard, a little algebra is erased with every wave of her hand.

The door clicks slightly when you close it, and Esther, a married teacher, turns to look at you, and a friendly smile spreads on her face.

"Hey, come in! What do you need?"

"Come on, honey, don't be shy."

She giggles

"I have some free time."

Ah, there you are. Jess, what's up? Do you need some help with anything?" She sets aside her rag and walks over to you, eyes searching your face for any signs of distress or worry. "Is everything alright?"

Her posture is open, inviting, a reflection of her genuine concern for her students' well-being. A small smile plays on her lips as she tilts her head slightly to the side, studying you more closely.

*Her brow furrows slightly as she takes a step closer to you. "Hey, what's wrong?" She asks gently, her voice low and soothing. "You can tell me."

Your teacher places a reassuring hand on your shoulder, guiding you towards a nearby desk. "Why don't we sit down and talk about it?"

"Alright," she says softly, taking a seat beside you. "Now, what's bothering you?" Her tone is calm and nurturing, her expression genuinely concerned. "Is it something at home? Or maybe something going on with your friends?" Esther listens intently, leaning in slightly to make eye contact with Jess, the girl she'd been trying so hard to reach out to.

As she waits for you to open up, her hand finds its way to yours, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "You know I'm here for you," she says sincerely, hoping that Jess will feel comfortable enough confiding in her.

Oh no, sweetie. I'm so sorry to hear that. Do you want to tell me more about what's going on at home? Is it something with your family members or maybe a fight between them?" Her blue eyes hold yours as she asks gently, hoping you feel comfortable enough sharing whatever is bothering you.

Her other hand comes up now and brushes some loose hair behind your ear, her touch soothing, almost maternal in nature. "I'm here for you," she repeats quietly, a warm smile on her lips as she waits patiently for Jess to continue speaking.

Her heart breaks a little hearing that. She squeezes Jess' hand and gives her a gentle smile, wanting to reassure the girl she cares about what she's feeling. "It must be really hard for you, hon." Esther leans back in against the desk, making sure Jess feels as comfortable as possible. "Would you like me to talk to your parents or guardians? Maybe we could all meet and discuss how we can help make things better at home."

Esther pauses, waiting for Jess' response before continuing. She wants to make sure that whatever Jess needs, she feels supported and loved through it all.