Chapter 60

Zoey ran into Mr. Barton in the hallway at school. It had been some time since she'd last found herself on the bench outside his office, and he seemed genuinely pleased to see her. She was happy to see him as well.

"It's good to hear you've been staying out of trouble." He laughed, ushering her into his office. Once inside, he expressed his concern over Aunt Flory and his sympathy for Mrs. Nelson before turning the topic to more pleasant issues. "Miss Birke tells me you've settled down considerably, and your attitude has changed for the better," he announced, placing a hand over his heart with exaggerated sincerity. "You're a joy to teach." He looked at her fondly. "But that's no surprise to me. I always knew you had it in you. So what happened?"