Cecilia’s Gain, Part 4

Cecilia Evans sure missed her husband, Christian.  She was happy, though.  For one, she was rather wealthy.  She kept to herself, lived modestly.  Her donations to organizations in town did not necessarily make her a known aristocrat; she still thought about teaching.  Ms. Evans was set, mind you; she lived off her investments.  Her residual income paid her bills.  Cecilia treated herself and Muria to a nice meal in an upscale restaurant once every 5 weeks.  They always chased after a new dish or flavor.  Cecilia paid off Muria’s credit cards.

Cecilia’s private school was for children ages 6 or 7 through 11 or 12.  The school employed about 24 workers, the students behaved and learned well.  Her art museum idea was expensive, however other entities helped by investing.  The vast structure was made of polished white marble with cloudy grey lines waving about.  Exhibits included featured artists from all over the world – some artists were still alive and made an appearance.  Others were not there, however lectures on their art and their biographical history were given.

Cecilia eventually began to enjoy life.  She kept to her house immaculate and stayed busy.  “I think I am going to try again with the teaching,” she said to Muria one evening, over dinner.  They split a large bowl of pasta drizzled with a special oil, rare spices, and steamed chicken.  “Where are you going to apply?  Why do you want to do it?  Are you not happy that you are not forced to teach?” asked Muria.  “I am going to speak with the board of a 2-A, ‘smaller’, school on the outskirts of town.  They are ‘The Bandits’ and have a fighting squirrel for their mascot.  I have a decent chance of getting the job; I think I would do best teaching in a smaller school.  I want to do it because I love to teach; I will be happy either way,” said Cecilia.

Cecilia did as she spoke of early Monday morning.  She dressed up nicely and brought  a newly revised resume to the director of the school district, Mr. Huffenpower.  He said they would be hiring three teachers this next year; one would need to be okay with coaching.  Cecilia was glad to meet the nice man.  He was well-educated, had a master’s degree in education.  According to Mr. Huffenpower, his forte was sociological research.

A week or two went by and Cecilia was called in for an interview.  It went well; she would teach Math and English to freshmen.  She would also take on the responsibility of an assistant women’s basketball coach.  She was so excited she called up Muria as soon as she got home.

“I got the job!” said Cecilia, “I am going to teach in this town!”  “I am sorry, I cannot talk right now,” said Muria, “Come over, though.”  Not even considering the length of the walk, Cecilia went over to Muria’s.  Muria answered the door saying, “Come on in,” motioned for Cecilia to come on inside.  The two sat on one of Muria’s extravagant couches.  Cecilia told her all about the interview.  She explained how she was going to coach young girls on the basketball court.

“I am really happy for you.”

Muria instinctively placed her hand on Cecilia’s thigh.

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