My Great Escape Led Me to You novel Chapter 408

In moments like this, it’s essential to channel the spirit of the Oscars.

And what does that mean? Simple: The Blair Performance Rules.

Maxwell Perez suddenly realized, to his growing alarm, that the model student in front of him—who’d only wandered off track for a moment—was blinking back tears. In the space of a heartbeat, her eyes grew red and glassy, tears welling up so quickly it was almost theatrical. Under his anxious gaze, those shimmering droplets spilled over.

“I didn’t mean…” he started, his voice much gentler now, “I really didn’t say anything, did I? Why are you crying…”

Emily Blair ducked her head suddenly, scrubbing at her eyes with the back of her hand. Her soft sniffling grew louder, her shoulders trembling with each breath.

All the teachers in the room looked up, exchanging bewildered glances with Maxwell Perez.

He stared back, wide-eyed and innocent.

What did this have to do with him? Normally, he was far harsher with the troublemakers—he’d let them have it, no holds barred. The words he’d just spoken to Emily Blair had been mild in comparison, even reasonable, and only because she’d always been such a stellar student.

If one of the usual rowdy students had said they didn’t want to come to class, he would’ve torn into them, no mercy. He’d even scold the parents if they were called in. But his words to Emily Blair? They weren’t harsh at all. So why had she started crying?

Maxwell Perez looked helplessly around, then grabbed a box of tissues from his desk and passed them to Emily Blair, lowering his voice. “I really didn’t say anything, did I? Why are you crying?”

Emily took the tissues, pressing one to her eyes—though it was clear she was forcing the tears out—her voice trembling as she spoke. “It’s not your fault, sir. It’s just… my grandmother’s sick. It’s just the two of us at home, and now I’m the only one who can take care of her. I really don’t have time to come to school.”

“I only came to the city because there’s a doctor here—the only one who can help my grandmother. I had to transfer out of my old school and enroll here. I honestly can’t manage coming to class right now…”

When she finished, the teachers’ expressions softened, sympathy etched on every face.

A student with top grades and a tragic family situation always seemed to tug at everyone’s heartstrings.

Maxwell Perez replayed his earlier words in his mind, wishing he could reach back in time and slap himself for being so insensitive.

Emily’s crying sounded absolutely miserable, and though he opened his mouth several times, nothing came out.

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