She took a deep breath and began typing:
Subject: Leave Request
Dear Principal Dante,
I'm really sorry for the sudden notice, but I'll have to take leave for the next few days. My aunt has been hospitalized and is under medical observation. Her condition isn't stable, and there's no one else at home to look after her son, Ethan. He's in the middle of his exams, and I can't leave him alone.
I promise to return as soon as things stabilize. Please accept my apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.
Sincerely,
Alina Hart
She read the message twice, biting her lip, then clicked Send.
As the screen blinked and the message disappeared, she let out a long breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. Her chest ached from the stress. She leaned her head back against the wall, eyes burning.
Through the small window at the end of the corridor, the city lights shone faintly.
****
