"I mean, it only makes sense that people would think your mother needs extra help"

After the dismissal bell, Rikki walked quickly past Mrs. Horowitz’s office, but not quick enough.

“Rikki,” the principal said, “How is your father? I heard about the accident.”

“Baruch Hashem. He’s okay.”

“Chasdei Hashem! I’m glad to hear that. I was thinking about how difficult it must be for your mother. She surely has a lot to deal with, doesn’t she?”

Rikki’s fingers tightened in the pockets of her hoodie. “She’s okay. We all are.”

Mrs. Horowitz smiled. “I like your attitude.”

Rikki wasn’t sure how to respond, so she didn’t.

“If your mother needs extra help at home, perhaps with the little ones, I can add her name to our chesed list. I’m sure many of your friends would be willing to help out.”

“N-no, don’t. I mean, my mother is fine. We don’t need extra help.”

“I don’t want to bother her and call, but even so, mention it to her.”

Rikki nodded dumbly.

“Oh, and Rikki, I know Mrs. Berman asked that the Melaveh Malkah take place in your house, but under the circumstances, I think we’ll look for another house.”

“W-why?” Disappointment smacked Rikki hard in the face. “I don’t think it’s a problem. Really. I know my mother won’t mind.”

“You haven’t asked her yet?”

“No.”

“Maybe just leave it that way. She has enough on her plate without the stress of a Melaveh Malkah looming over her head.”

“My father is really okay.” Rikki wasn’t sure why she was fighting for rights to the Melaveh Malkah, but she couldn’t stop. “And she doesn’t really have to do anything, Mrs. Horowitz. The girls will take care of everything. Mrs. Berman said so.”

The principal didn’t look convinced. “I’m sorry, Rikki, I just don’t think it’s fair to your mother. Please mention to her my offer regarding the chesed program.”

Mrs. Horowitz returned to her office and closed the door.

“Ugh!” Rikki made her escape outside.

Ruchie rushed over to her. “What was that all about?”

“Mrs. Horowitz wants my family to be a chesed case and have girls go over to help out!”

“No way!”