The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 56

Since she was already here, she deserved a fair shot.

When Eleanor glanced over, Charlotte lifted her chin and met her gaze with cool confidence. There wasn’t a hint of fear in her eyes.

Shirley was practically holding her breath, terrified that Charlotte’s homeroom teacher might also want her gone.

Everyone seemed on edge, waiting for the next blow, when Eleanor finally spoke up.

“We need to know what really happened. She should at least get the chance to explain herself. If she did something wrong, she’ll be punished, but if she didn’t, it’s not right to blame her.”

As soon as Charlotte heard that, a subtle smile played at the corners of her mouth. There’s no point explaining yourself if nobody cares what you have to say. But if someone actually listens, maybe it’s worth it.

“Ms. Adams!” Bald Lee, used to getting his way, couldn’t believe a new teacher would stand up to him like this. His face went dark. “Do you even know what you’re doing?”

The threat hung there, unspoken. Did she want to keep her job at this school, or not?

Eleanor understood exactly what he meant. She knew he’d make things hard for her. But she wouldn’t just stand by and let a student get expelled for something she might not have done.

“Charlotte, can you tell us what happened with the snake?” Eleanor’s voice was gentle as she turned to her. “Just tell the truth. If you weren’t involved, I’ll take care of it.”

Charlotte straightened her back and answered calmly, “When I came back from lunch, the snake was already in my desk. I was worried it would bite someone, so I put it in a bag and threw it in the trash. I didn’t think it would get out and bite someone.”

“Maybe Winnie has some weird energy that set it off? Why else would it only bite her?”

“Have you been reading too many fantasy novels? That’s creepy.” A couple of kids shuffled away from Winnie, leaving a gap around her like she was contagious.

Eleanor took it all in, then glanced around the room. “Did anyone see anyone near Charlotte’s desk today?”

Everyone shook their heads. It had been lunchtime and the classroom was empty.

There was no evidence proving Charlotte didn’t bring the snake, but nobody could explain why the snake hadn’t bitten her either. Eleanor found herself lost in thought.