"Ms. Valente," she said, and even the way she used my name sounded like an accusation, "I've been instructed by the headmaster to inform you that Emilia is expelled, effective immediately."
I glared at her. Emilia's fingers tightened on my sleeve.
"My daughter was attacked," I said, my voice low and even. "Instead of seeking justice for her, you're expelling her?"
The teacher's expression didn't change. "This is an elite academy. The children who attend here come from powerful families. Respected families." She paused, letting the implication settle. "A child born from a homewrecker like you staying here would only damage our reputation."
The courtyard had gone quiet. Every parent was watching. Every word carried.
My expression darkened, and I held the teacher's gaze until she blinked first.
"I suggest you investigate who the real homewrecker and illegitimate child are," I said, "before you speak another word."
The silence that followed lasted exactly two seconds.
Then Luna stormed across the courtyard toward me. I saw her hand move before I felt it. She flicked her hair behind her right ear with that sharp, practiced motion, and then she slapped me hard across the face.