Miri’s senses perked up at the mention of art, but painting was her secret — one she wanted to keep from the Weiss family, particularly

Mrs. Klein scrutinized Miri from across the desk, waiting for a reply.

“Y-yeah,” Miri swallowed. “Everything is fine.”

“Good.” The principal leaned back in her chair. “I’m glad to hear it. I’ve been meaning to speak to you about your transition to our school. Are you finding the classes okay?”

Seriously? “Y-yes.”

“Excellent. I see you found a friend, too. Shoshi is a wonderful girl.” Mrs. Klein looked at her watch. “I don’t want to keep you, but I just want to mention that we have plenty of extracurricular classes. Art, dance, sewing. It’s easy to join.”

Miri’s senses perked up at the mention of art, but painting was her secret — one she wanted to keep from the Weiss family, particularly.

“Thanks,” Miri mumbled. She stood and made a quick exit from the office.

“What was that all about?”

Miri jumped. “Oh, Shoshi! I didn’t see you.”

“Oh my, Miri. I ran here the second I saw Mrs. Klein speaking to you. Why did she call you into her office?” Her hand flew to her mouth. “No way! Does she think you took the missing thingy?”

“That’s what I thought when she said she wanted to speak to me. You know, maybe because I’m new here, and she doesn’t really know me. But basically, all she wanted to know was how I’m adjusting to school.”

“Phew!”

“Yeah!” Miri placed her hand over her thumping heart. “Tell me about it! My legs are still shaking.”

“I can totally imagine.” The girls melted into the crowd leaving the building.

“Did you ask your mother about me sleeping over for Shabbos?”

“Yes.” Miri sighed. “She said she’ll ask him and let me know. She wants to make sure everyone is comfortable.”

“Must be hard for your mother, always trying to make everyone happy.”

“It is. She actually told me that.”

“She told you? Wow! It’s nice that you and your mother talk about everything.”

“You don’t?”

“No, not really. I mean, not at all.”