RUBY
I clutched the box of donuts tighter, feeling oddly nervous as I stood in the daycare reception area. The colorful walls were plastered with children's artwork, but I couldn't focus on any of it. Something was pulling my attention toward the playroom beyond Miss Paige's desk.
"The children will be thrilled about these," Miss Paige said, eyeing the donut box with a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "You really didn't have to go through the trouble."
"It's no trouble. I've been away too long." I shifted my weight, trying to see past her into the main room. "So, about this new volunteer Fabian's been talking about?"
Miss Paige's smile faltered slightly. "Mr. Roman? Yes, he's been wonderful with the children. Started about a week ago."
"When I was in the hospital," I noted.
She nodded, looking uncomfortable. "He has a natural way with them. Especially Fabian. Your son really took to him right away."
