Chapter 64: End of Brad

After Sam finishes setting up the basic programs of the Digital Library, he shifts his attention back to Anna. He feels a sense of satisfaction as he sees the library systems humming along smoothly on his monitors. Now, he has to focus on Anna and her mission.

"Pushp, show me Anna's current feed," Sam says, leaning back in his chair. 

The digital assistant, a marvel of modern AI, responds instantly. "Right away, Sam."

A visual of an airborne view of Anna's location appears on the screen in front of Sam, a live feed from a drone camera. Sam closes his eyes to concentrate, projecting the image into his mind. He sees Anna walking across a hall and stepping into a conference room. 

"Pushp, zoom out and show me the building she's in," Sam instructs.

The image zooms out to reveal the structure: the Khalpur branch of Umeed School, a sprawling campus dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering creativity. 

"Alright, Pushp, bring the visuals back to a close-up," Sam commands.

The view narrows again, showing Anna seated at a large conference table. Beside her are Brad, Triksy, and Ms. Patterson.

Anna's eyes are focused, reflecting her determination. Brad sits with an easy-going confidence, while Triksy, Ms. Patterson's diligent assistant, hovers nearby, ready to attend to any request. 

Ms. Patterson, the cornerstone of this meeting, is a woman of stature and history. At 92, she is in her twilight years, yet her presence exudes a quiet authority. As a significant investor in the Umeed School Foundation, she is responsible for about 4% of the total funding—a testament to her dedication to education and philanthropy.

Anna breaks the silence, addressing Ms. Patterson warmly. "Thank you for joining us today, Ms. Patterson. It's always inspiring to hear your thoughts."

Ms. Patterson smiles, her eyes crinkling. "Anna, it's my pleasure. Supporting education is one of the few things that still gives me joy. Besides, I've heard great things about your work here."

Brad chimes in, his tone light. "You know, Ms. Patterson, if it weren't for your contributions, we wouldn't be able to host these amazing workshops. The kids absolutely love them."

Ms. Patterson chuckles softly. "It's not just about the money, Brad. It's about ensuring a better future. At my age, accumulating merits for the next life seems like a wise investment."

Triksy nods, adding, "Ms. Patterson always says she wants to leave the world better than she found it. I think she's doing a fantastic job."

Anna nods in agreement. "Absolutely. And today, we're excited to show you some of the new projects we've been working on."

Sam, listening in from afar, can sense the camaraderie and respect among the group. He knows that this meeting is more than just business—it's a convergence of shared goals and values. 

As the conversation continues, Ms. Patterson leans forward, curiosity piqued. "So, tell me, Anna. What's the next big thing for Umeed School?"

Anna smiles, her passion evident. "We're planning to introduce a new digital curriculum that will integrate technology and traditional learning, ensuring that our students are equipped for the challenges of the modern world."

Sam feels a swell of pride as he watches the interaction unfold. Anna, Brad, and the team are on the verge of something truly transformative, and he knows that with supporters like Ms. Patterson, they are poised to make a lasting impact.

The atmosphere in the conference room shifted subtly as the meeting progressed. Though Anna maintained her calm demeanor, the tension in the air was palpable. Today's agenda was crucial, and everyone knew it.

Anna and Ms. Patterson, despite their age difference, shared a status of equal authority within the School Foundation. This meeting had been convened with a specific purpose: to discuss the removal of Brad from his position as principal of the Khalpur branch.

Anna was the driving force behind this initiative, believing Brad's leadership was detrimental to the school's mission. She had long suspected Brad of manipulating student records to inflate the achievements of a favored student, and recent evidence had confirmed her suspicions.

Triksy, Brad's ally, had been instrumental in orchestrating the meeting. She had convinced Ms. Patterson to attend, hoping her influence would sway the decision in Brad's favor. But unbeknownst to both Brad and Triksy, Anna had already informed Ms. Patterson of their scheming.

Ms. Patterson, upon learning the truth, was livid. Despite her years and frailty, her commitment to the students' welfare was unwavering. She had no intention of allowing Brad to continue his deceitful practices.

As the discussion resumed, Anna took a deep breath and addressed the room. "Ms. Patterson, I believe we need to address the issues with our leadership at this branch. Our students deserve a principal who truly prioritizes their achievements and well-being."

Brad shifted uncomfortably in his seat, sensing the precariousness of his position. "I assure you, Anna, my only goal is to see the students succeed."

Anna met his gaze steadily. "Unfortunately, Brad, your actions speak otherwise. We have evidence that you've been falsely attributing student achievements. This not only harms the students involved but also undermines the integrity of our entire institution."

Ms. Patterson nodded, her voice firm. "I've reviewed the evidence, Brad, and it's clear you've been prioritizing personal gain over our students' futures. This is unacceptable."

Triksy attempted to intervene, her voice laced with desperation. "Ms. Patterson, surely there's a misunderstanding. Brad has always had the students' best interests at heart."

Ms. Patterson shook her head. "Triksy, I appreciate your loyalty, but I've made my decision. We cannot have leaders who deceive and manipulate. It's time for a change."

Brad's face flushed with anger and fear. "Ms. Patterson, please reconsider. I've dedicated years to this school."

Anna remained composed. "And the school deserves better leadership moving forward. It's time to part ways, Brad."

The room fell silent as the weight of Anna's words settled in. Brad knew he had lost the battle. Ms. Patterson's mind was made up, and Anna's determination was unwavering.

With the meeting's conclusion imminent, Ms. Patterson turned her attention to Triksy. "Triksy, I also have to let you go. Your involvement in this situation shows a lapse in judgment that I can't overlook."

Triksy's eyes widened, though she had anticipated this outcome. "I understand, Ms. Patterson. I just wanted to help Brad, but I realize now that I made a mistake."

As the meeting wrapped up, Anna and Ms. Patterson shared a look of mutual respect. The decision to remove Brad and Triksy was not taken lightly, but it was necessary for the future of the school.

Ms. Patterson rose slowly from her seat, leaning on her cane for support. She glanced at Anna with a small smile. "I'm grateful for your vigilance, Anna. The school is lucky to have someone who truly cares."

Anna smiled back, relieved that the truth had prevailed. "Thank you, Ms. Patterson. Together, we'll ensure that Umeed School continues to thrive."

As they exited the conference room, Triksy lingered behind, gathering her belongings. She watched as Ms. Patterson and Anna departed, knowing that her time at the school had come to an end.

Outside the room, Anna took a deep breath, feeling a sense of accomplishment. The meeting had been challenging, but ultimately, they had secured a brighter future for the students of the Khalpur branch.

Ms. Patterson paused before leaving the building, turning to Anna one last time. "Let's continue to work together to make a difference, Anna. Our students deserve nothing less."

Anna nodded, her resolve stronger than ever. "Absolutely, Ms. Patterson. We owe it to them to keep pushing forward."

With that, Ms. Patterson departed, leaving Anna to reflect on the victory they had achieved. It was a small step, but one that promised a better future for everyone involved.