Elijah regarded her cautiously. "Why do you care? It's just school drama."
"Is it?" Naomi challenged gently. "A gifted musician silenced by an administration that seems determined to discredit him? That sounds like a story people should hear."
For the next hour, Elijah shared his experience: hesitantly at first, then with increasing openness as Naomi's genuine interest became apparent. He spoke of his mother's musical influence, his years of playing on a broken keyboard, Dell's discovery of his talent, and the brief moment of triumph before everything fell apart.
"There's one thing I don't understand," Naomi said as their conversation wound down. "Why would Principal Cartwright go to such lengths to discredit you? It seems personal."
Elijah shrugged. "I've been asking myself the same question."
As the interview concluded, Naomi checked her watch. "I need to get back to the office, but I'd like to continue this conversation. And I'd like to speak with Mr. Delacroix, if possible."
That evening, Elijah and Alicia sat beside Dell's hospital bed. The old teacher looked frailer than either of them had expected, his normally animated face subdued by medication and fatigue, but his eyes lit up when they entered the room.
"There you are," he said, his voice weaker, but his spirit unbroken. "I was beginning to think they'd banned visitors, too."
"How are you feeling?" Alicia asked, taking one of his hands in hers.
"Like I've been hit by a bus," Dell replied with a weak smile. "But they tell me I'll live." His gaze shifted to Elijah. "What's happening at school? Have they come to their senses yet?"
Elijah shook his head. "No change. Still suspended pending investigation."
Dell's expression darkened. "That's outrageous. It's a witch hunt, plain and simple."
"We met with a journalist today," Alicia said. "Naomi Reyes from the Herald. She wants to talk to you."
"Good." Dell nodded. "It's time people knew what's really happening at Lincoln Heights." He turned to Elijah, his expression suddenly urgent. "I need you to know something. I've been holding on to this for too long already."
"What is it?" Elijah asked, leaning closer.