"Councilwoman," a voice said. "I'm sorry to keep you waiting..."
"No problem, Principal Davison." Allison felt as if nothing could shake her up. She felt a new firmness within her new clothes and she liked it. She didn't notice that she was an inch taller than she was a minute ago -- or that her accent had subtly began to shift. "Nice to meet you." She shook Davison's hand. Neither noticed that her hand was a shade lighter.
Davison gestured toward Debbie Stein. "This is my secretary, Debbie Stein. Please take a seat," said Davison.
"Thank you." Allison settled into a chair that was across from Davison's window. The rays of the sun shone upon her hair, revealing blonde highlights.
Davison looked her in the eye. He didn't blink as her irises became hazel. "I wish to assure you that I share your concern about the diversity of our student population."
Allison bit her thinning lip. She was so tempted to ask, But what are you doing about your "concern"? Instead, she raised a less hostile question. "My understanding was that I'd be speaking to the school administration. Are the vice-principal and others absent today?"
Now it was Davison's turn to hold his tongue. If only he could tell her what he thought about budget cuts and staff reductions. How he and Debbie had to do so much themselves -- especially after Sierra took the day off today.
"Also," continued Allison, "may I ask what these two students are doing at our meeting?"
Davison cleared his throat. "Well ..."
