Seraphina's POV
I froze. Mother?
I opened my mouth, not sure what to say. I wasn't her mother. Her mother was dead. But before I could correct her, she was already talking.
"It's so wonderful to meet you finally, Mrs. Blackwood!" she said, clasping her hands together. "Alicia is such a good child. So well-behaved, so intelligent. She's truly a pleasure to have in class."
I smiled slowly. "Thank you. I'm glad to hear that."
"I'm Miss Patterson, by the way. Alicia's teacher." She gestured toward the form in my hand. "Is that the field trip permission form?"
"Yes." I handed it to her. "Sorry, it's a bit late."
"Oh no, this is perfect timing! Thank you so much for bringing it." She looked at the signature and seemed satisfied. Then her expression shifted slightly, becoming more serious. "Actually, since you're here... would you mind if we spoke privately? Just for a moment?"
My heart sank. Was something wrong with Alicia?
"Of course," I said quickly.
