Chapter 82
“Mr. Woodley, you’re flattering me.” Loid smiled tantly while pouring himself a cup of tea
Joseph shot Loid a knowing look. He then began, “Loid, I heard a miracle–working doctor cured your illness. I didn’t believe it at first, but looking at you now, I’m inclined to trust the rumors. I wonder if you could introduce me to this doctor?”
“Oh, it was sheer luck 1 ran into her. She vanished after I was cured. I don’t low where she is,” Loid replied courteously.
“Well, I won’t press you if you refuse to tell me about it,” said Joseph, who took another sip of tea before looking up. “Loid, you must be here for other matters than a tea–drinking session. Why don’t you get to the point?
Smiling. Loid it a cigarette while tapping the fingers of his free hand on the table. He slowly began, “I wonder if you’ve read the online posts regarding me on Ember Creek’s forum?
“Posts about you?” Joseph looked at him quizzically. He had been busy with family matters and neglected school administrative work. Therefore, he was clorless when Loid brought up the posts.
“Someone posted on the forum to slander my fiancée. As the school principal, I’m sure you are aware of the negative effects of online bullying on a student. We should eradicate such a toxic culture. Don’t you think?” Then, Loid flicked the cigarette ashed with a squint. He no longer seemed as amicable as before.
Under Loid’s cold scrutiny, Joseph frowned and replied, “I’m not sure what has happened in school. I’ll open an investigation into it. If such posts exist, I will take stem action on the students involved.”
Loid nodded, his attitude softening. “Thanks”
In the next 10 minutes, the four of them enjoyed
ed tea in a relaxed, friendly silence, occasionally making a remark or two.
Moments later, Loid stole a glance at joseph. “Mr. Woodley, you’re nearing retirement. What are your post–retirement plans?”
Joseph smiled. “I’ll enjoy a slow life after retirement. As for the school–I’ve found may successor.”
“Will that be your grandson? Loid casually inquired.
Loid squinted at the old man without a word. Shaun looked up, asking, “Aren’t you going to pass the reins to Matt Woodky?”
“Thave a better candidate. Too bad she hasn’t agreed to my offer.” Joseph took a sip of tea and let out a sigh.
Shaun’s eyes widened in shock “The successor you hand–picked refused to take over?”
What on earth? Did the appointed successor understand Joseph Woodley’s legacy or the significance of Ember Creek High School? Shaun thought, “How dare she turn down the offer?”
Lold was equally surprised. He was sure that Joseph made the right choice, but he was puzzled by the candidate’s decision to decline the offer.
Joseph let out a bitter chuckle. “I’m still trying to change her mind “Then, he glanced at the clock and said, “I have some matters to tend to. I won’t hang around. I’ll look into the posts and get in touch with you later.”
Loid rose from his seat “Sure. Have a good day, Mr. Woodley.”
Shaun and Daniel stood up at the same time. After Joseph let, Shaun turned to Loid, saying, “Loid, something feels off”
Loid gracefully sipped at his tea without a word while leaning against the chair.
Shan, never one to hold back his thoughts, sat beside Loid and blurted out, “Isn’t Mart his favorite grandson? Mr. Woodley once said he’d pass the reins to Matt Why did he suddenly decide on another candidate? Doesn’t that feel odd to you
“There’s nothing weird about it.” Loid got up from the seat emotionlessly. “Mr. Woodley has always gone about things in his own fashion. Let’s just observe by the sidelines.”
Then, he checked the time and said, “It’s time to pick up Lay from school”
Shaun lett with Loid without asking any questions,
Chapter 83