Chapter 2: Uneasy Departure

As Ms. Thompson stepped out into the crisp evening air, she felt a sense of relief wash over her. The tutoring session had been productive, but the underlying tension had left her feeling uneasy. Sarah walked alongside her, her hand still on Ms. Thompson's arm, and Ms. Thompson couldn't help but wonder if the girl was trying to make a point. As they reached the front door, Sarah turned to Ms. Thompson and smiled. "Thanks again, Ms. Thompson. I really appreciate your help." Her eyes seemed to bore into Ms. Thompson's, and for a moment, Ms. Thompson felt like she was drowning in their depths. Ms. Thompson smiled back, trying to brush off the feeling. "Anytime, Sarah. Just don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything." She turned to leave, but Sarah's voice stopped her. "Ms. Thompson?" Sarah's voice was low and husky, and it sent a shiver down Ms. Thompson's spine. "Yes?" Ms. Thompson turned back to face Sarah, her heart racing slightly. "I'm really glad you came over today," Sarah said, her eyes locked on Ms. Thompson's. "I think we're going to get along just fine." Ms. Thompson's skin prickled with unease as she forced a smile. "I'm glad too, Sarah. Take care, okay?" She turned to leave, but as she reached for the door handle, she felt a hand on her shoulder. It was a gentle touch, but it sent a jolt of electricity through Ms. Thompson's body. She turned to see Sarah's face inches from hers, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. "Goodnight, Ms. Thompson," Sarah whispered, her breath warm against Ms. Thompson's ear. As Ms. Thompson pushed open the door and stepped out onto the porch, she felt a sense of relief wash over her. She was glad to be leaving, but as she turned to wave goodbye, she caught a glimpse of Sarah standing in the doorway, her eyes fixed on Ms. Thompson's. The image lingered in Ms. Thompson's mind as she walked back to her car, her heart pounding in her chest. She couldn't shake the feeling that Sarah was watching her, even as she drove away from the house. As she pulled out of the driveway, Ms. Thompson glanced in her rearview mirror, and her heart skipped a beat. Sarah was standing in the middle of the lawn, her eyes fixed on Ms. Thompson's car as it disappeared into the night. Ms. Thompson's skin prickled with unease as she sped away from the house, her mind racing with questions. What was going on with Sarah? And why did she feel like she was in over her head?