Chapter 9 - A New School Year
September brought the crisp, golden chill of autumn back to Chicago.
The trees along Willow Street turned brilliant shades of amber and crimson, their leaves crunching beneath the sneakers of children walking to school.
For Ethan Matthews, the start of third grade felt entirely different from the year before.
On the first day of school, David walked hand-in-hand with his son all the way to the front steps of Northbridge Elementary. Ethan was wearing a brand-new navy sweater, his curly hair neatly combed, carrying a shiny new backpack filled with fresh supplies.
As they reached the school entrance, Principal Davies stepped out to greet the morning arrivals. When he saw David and Ethan, he walked over with a warm, respectful smile.
“Good morning, Ethan. Good morning, Mr. Matthews,” Principal Davies said.
“Good morning, Mr. Davies,” Ethan replied politely.
“Ethan,” the principal said, crouching down to eye level. “I just wanted to let you know that the student council and I were talking over the summer. We’re establishing a new citizenship award this year for bravery and integrity. And we decided to name the very first recipient after someone who showed us all what it means to stand up for what is right.”
Ethan’s eyes widened. “Me?”
“You,” Principal Davies smiled. “We’re very proud of you, Ethan. Have a great first day.”
As the principal walked away to greet other students, Ethan turned to his father, a proud, beaming smile lighting up his face.
David knelt down, pulling his son into a tight hug. “I told you, buddy. You’re my hero.”
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“I couldn't have done it without you trusting me, Dad,” Ethan murmured into his shoulder.
“Always,” David whispered, kissing his forehead. “Always.”
