Chapter 4: Parent-Teacher Conference

The parent-teacher conference with Dina, JJ's teacher, had finally arrived, and Ellie was walking into the school with Abby by her side. They had both been dreading and anticipating this meeting for weeks now. As they entered the conference room, Dina greeted them with a warm smile. "Hello, Ellie and Abby. Thank you for coming in today. I've prepared a comprehensive report on JJ's progress, and I'm excited to share it with you both," Dina said, gesturing to the stack of papers and folders on the table. Ellie and Abby exchanged a glance, and Ellie took a seat next to Abby, who was fidgeting with excitement. Dina began to review JJ's report card, highlighting his strengths and weaknesses. JJ was doing exceptionally well in his classes, especially in art and music. As Dina discussed JJ's progress, Ellie couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. She remembered the countless hours they had spent helping JJ with his homework, reading him bedtime stories, and encouraging him to pursue his passions. Abby, on the other hand, seemed distracted. She kept glancing at Ellie, and Ellie could sense that something was on her mind. Ellie made a mental note to ask Abby about it later. Dina continued to discuss JJ's areas of improvement, mainly his struggles with math. Ellie and Abby listened intently, taking notes and asking questions. They were both determined to support JJ in any way they could. As the meeting drew to a close, Dina mentioned that JJ had been having some issues with bullying in the playground. Ellie's instincts kicked in, and she immediately turned to Abby, her eyes locked on hers. "What kind of issues?" Ellie asked, her voice firm but concerned. Dina hesitated before responding, "It seems that some of the kids in JJ's class have been making fun of his family structure. JJ has been feeling a bit isolated and alone during recess." Abby's eyes welled up with tears, and Ellie quickly wrapped her arm around her. "We're going to take care of this, Dina. Can you tell us more about what's been happening?" Ellie asked, her voice filled with determination. Dina nodded and provided more details about the incidents. Ellie and Abby listened attentively, making a mental note to discuss this further with JJ and the school administration. As they left the school, Ellie turned to Abby and asked, "Hey, what's going on? You seemed a bit distant during the meeting." Abby took a deep breath and looked at Ellie with a serious expression. "I was just thinking about our conversation the other day, about starting a family. I really want to talk to you about it, but I wasn't sure how to bring it up." Ellie's heart skipped a beat as she realized that this conversation was far from over. She smiled and took Abby's hand. "Let's talk about it tonight, okay? I want to hear more about what's on your mind." Abby nodded, and they shared a tender kiss as they walked out of the school, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.