just a new little tease of my book

As Charlotte cascaded down the oak and stone stair case into the main seating area, Daniel Shimmer rushed to her side, grabbing her by the elbow. “Happy 18^th birthday, my sweet pet, May I have a word with you in the adoption office?”  She ripped her arm away from him and stood back, he was visibly shaken by her bold rejection. “No, I would not like to speak with you; I would like to speak to Mrs. Crane”. She looked over to her Head Mistress, Jeanette Cane for solitude. “Of course, “Cane billowed, already striding towards her office,” I believe it is time for you to leave, Mr. Shimmer.” Without a second glance, he was dismissed.  Charlotte managed a menacing smile as he barreled past her, looking more like a grimace. She strolled into Jeanette’s office, managing to plop herself into a large leather chair. Jeanette sat across from Charlotte, her aged face wrinkled from confusion. After a few moments of silence, Jeanette spoke, “What exactly are you so smug about, Charlotte. That man was your only hope to avoid homelessness; and yet you insult him and his advances, and then curl up in my office like a Cheshire cat, waiting for its feeding and a nap.” Charlotte sits up a little straighter in her chair and folds her arms onto the wooden table between them, “I have a plan” she whispers to Jeanette. “Tell me all, Cheshire” She retorts, and stands to close the door so they may talk more privately.