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*This was a delicate moment, a delicate time. They had only just begun to explore their feelings for one another amidst Connor's called off engagement. Things seemed messy, yet all Ellie was feeling was tenderness toward Connor who expressed his unwavering support. A degree or a promotion could result in Ellie no longer being in the classroom next door. That's a lot of change in a short period of time. Nevertheless, when Connor gave her a quick kiss, Ellie's mind quieted for just a moment 💋

*Ellie didn't like exposing her insecurities like this. Her ability to perform academically was always an area in which she applied a lot of pressure to herself. She knew it had to do with the pressure her mom thrust upon her as a child, but she felt ridiculous being unable to shake it now as an adult 😞

*Ellie and Connor have kept things under wraps thus far at work. They don't want their colleagues privy to their extremely new...and somewhat undefined relationship. And Ellie has other things to worry about as well, like her university applications. She's been extremely nervous about applying to graduate school. Her insecurities have surfaced a bit and she decided to confide in Connor.

*Connor tipped his head to the side, sliding his hand to cup the nape of her neck. And then, slowly, he lowered his lips to hers. It was a kiss that stole the breath from her lungs while simultaneously convincing her she would float away 💕

*Connor's admission left Ellie stunned. The air around her crackled with anticipation, with tension that felt almost too much to bear. Her hand was suspended between them and Connor gently wrapped his fingers around her wrist. The warmth of his hand snaked up her arm and her cheeks flushed.

*They played every board game Ellie owned (and three additional games that Bee brought over). Happily exhausted, Ellie and Connor retired to the couch once everyone else had left. It was late and Ellie wondered if Connor's fiance knew he was staying later than the others. Part of her felt guilty for stealing more time with him. But that guilt was overshadowed because Ellie was so relieved it went off without a hitch--in this new town, with her new co-workers who she considered friends...

🚂🎲🏆

*Meet Chloe and Elias, as well! Ellie and Connor teach specific subjects in fifth grade, while Chloe and Elias teach first and fourth grade, respectfully. Bee made sure they tagged along for a night of fun 😊

*Ellie is hosting game night! She invited all of her co-workers for a night of board games, pizza, and a few drinks. Hey, teachers know how to party, right? The first game was Ticket to Ride 🚂🎲

*Ellie has been considering pursuing a graduate degree. Wharf Elementary doesn't have the budget to provide tuition assistance (at least not outside of annual continued education training courses). So, she explored some scholarship opportunities to get started. She isn't sure where she would like to attend, but she's a little nervous because teaching already takes up so much of her time. Hopefully, she will be able to balance it all!! Britechester or Foxbury? 🤔📚

*Salem is now a big boy 😻🧶 He's so floofy. And the Watcher learned that cats will bat at knitting baskets. I knew they could play with yarn balls, but I didn't know this! Anyway, he's mischievous and affectionate and...loud 😂

*Ah, the winter doldrums! Ellie picked up the Fitness skill and quickly discovered she is Athletic! She's incorporated some cycling and strength training into her daily routine 💪🏼

*Ellie slipped her palm into his. An innocent enough touch, but one that made her heart fumble around in her chest. His eyes softened, her breath hitched, and she felt something click into place...whatever it was 💭

*Ellie suppressed the laugh that threatened to slip past her lips because her guilt--she realized--was deeper than she thought. She didn't want to put Connor in a compromising position. Yes, things could remain platonic, but she wanted to ensure she emphasized that she was sorry for the outburt.

*As much as Ellie didn't want to admit it, she missed Connor too. She missed their passing glances in the hall between periods, she missed the small chats in the teacher's lounge, and she missed the daily laughs they shared with one another. She wanted to move past it and she was relieved Connor was seemingly willing to do the same 😊

*A big decision? Ellie wasn't privy to anything going on in Connor's life outside of work--I mean, why would she be, right? That is, aside from his unhappy relationship...Whatever it is, it had clearly been weighing heavy on him. So long as he was happy with his decision, that's all that matters