The bus driver notices a CRYING girl every day, looks under the SEAT after getting off and FAILS at what he sees…

If that’s the path you choose, there would be no legal barriers. Walter, feeling like an intruder on this deeply personal family moment, stood quietly. I should give you all some privacy, he said, moving toward the door.

Wait, Rory called out. Please don’t go yet. Her mother turned, seeming to notice Walter for the first time.

Who are you? This is Walter Harmon, Mrs. Carson, Ms. Rivera explained. He’s Rory’s school bus driver. He’s the one who noticed something was wrong and ultimately alerted the authorities.

The grandmother approached Walter, tears in her eyes. You saved our girl, she said, gripping his hand fiercely. Thank you.

Thank you. Walter nodded, uncomfortable with the praise. I just did what anyone should do.

Rory’s mother struggled to her feet and embraced Walter unexpectedly. Thank you, she whispered before pulling away, wiping her tears. A knock at the door preceded the entrance of a police officer.

Mr. Harmon, could I speak with you for a moment? Walter nodded and followed the officer into the hallway, leaving the family to their private discussion with the doctor and social worker. I wanted to update you on the situation, the officer said, once they were alone in a quiet corner. Greg Whitmore is in custody and has been charged with multiple serious offenses.

He’s not talking, but the three men we arrested with him are cooperating in exchange for reduced charges. What have they told you, Walter asked. According to their statements, Whitmore has a history of predatory behavior.

He specifically targeted single mothers with daughters. The officer’s expression hardened. He was jealous of Rory because she was from the first marriage.

He took advantage of her and wanted to break her spirit so that her mother would reject her and focus solely on him and his upcoming child. Walter felt sick at the calculated cruelty. Will he be able to get out on bail? The officer shook his head.

Not likely. With the evidence we have and the testimony of the other men, he’s facing serious jail time, and we’re investigating whether he has a pattern of this behavior with other victims. Walter nodded, relieved that the man would face justice.

What about the principal and Ms. Margaret? I contacted both of them earlier today. They’re both at the police station giving statements, the officer confirmed. We’re trying to determine if there was any negligence on the part of the school in not noticing or addressing signs of abuse.

Walter let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. Good, that’s good. We’ll need you to testify if this goes to trial, the officer added, but that’s down the road.

For now, you should go home and rest. You’ve done more than enough today. Walter nodded, suddenly aware of the bone-deep exhaustion that had settled over him.

I will, he promised. Walter exited the room where he had given his statement to the police, the exhaustion of the day finally settling into his bones. As he walked down the corridor, he noticed a woman sitting alone in the waiting area, her eyes red from crying, one hand resting protectively on her heavily pregnant belly.

She looked up as Walter approached, and recognition flashed across her face. She stood with some effort, extending her hand. Mr. Harmon, I’m Laura Carson, Rory’s mother.

Her voice was soft but steady. I didn’t get to properly thank you earlier for what you did for my daughter. Walter shook her hand gently.

Please call me Walter, and there’s no need for thanks. How is Rory doing? Laura gestured to the empty seat beside her, and Walter sat down. She sank back into her chair with a tired sigh.

The doctor confirmed that she is indeed pregnant, now in the first week. Laura’s voice caught slightly. They’ve explained the options to us…