Chapter 9 — Before the Cameras Arrived

Six months after the disaster had been prevented, Lily returned to Westbridge High for a ceremony marking the reopening of the gym. The damaged gas line had been replaced, and the school had passed extensive safety inspections.

Lily could walk without help now, though she still moved carefully. The eleven children stood behind her on the basketball court. Owen held her hand.

The principal invited Lily to speak. She approached the microphone and looked across the crowded gymnasium. Daniel sat in the front row. Senator Chase sat beside him.

Marcus Bell, Elena Ruiz, teachers, firefighters, nurses, and surgeons filled the seats around them. Patricia and Scott had not been invited.

Lily unfolded a small sheet of paper. “People keep calling me fearless,” she began. “But I was afraid the entire time.”

The gym went silent.