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1 minute read
Orphaned
from Unfinished Stories
by James Morris
A child sits on the steps of her school waiting for her mom to pick her up like she does every day. For some reason, she is late today, and the girl does not know why. As she sits quietly, the principal of the school sees her sitting there. He looked at his watch and thought it was unusual for the girl to be waiting this long. The principal walks over to the girl, "Sally, how are you doing?" He asked with a smile, trying to start some friendly conversation. He could tell she was wondering where her mom was, just like he was.
Sally looks up to Mr. Gilbreth, "Fine," she responds in a small
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tiny voice.
"I'm sure your mom will be here shortly," the principal says, trying to reassure her. "I'm sure she's just running a little late."
Mr. Gilbreth walks into the school office and sees Jenny, the secretary behind the counter. "Sally's still waiting outside. Have you received any word from her mom?" "No," Jenny replied, in a concerned voice. "She's never late." Just then, the phone rings. Jenny answers, "Hello? Stonebrook Elementary School. This is Jenny." Mr. Gilbreth looks out the window towards Sally to check on her once more and then walks into his office. As he is about to sit down behind his desk, Jenny rushes in. "Mr. Gilbreth," she starts talking hurriedly. "That was the police on the phone. They are on their way here to talk to Sally. They'd like us to hold onto her in the office until they arrive."
Mr. Gilbreth looks up from his chair with an overly concerned look. "The Police? Did they say what they wanted? Is everything okay?" Jenny puts her hands to her mouth as if she is trying to hold back from talking and shakes her head. (Your turn... Finish the story.)
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