Lizzie knocked on her father’s office door. It swung open on its own.
“The bus is leaving soon.” Lizzie stepped inside, adjusting her bag over her shoulder. “I got everyone else on board, but I just came to say goodbye.”
“Oh.” Alaric blinked in surprise, shoving his paperwork aside and glancing at his watch. “You’re ahead of schedule.”
“I’d hate for us to be late.” Lizzie shrugged, glowing under the praise. 
“Thank you. That was very responsible.” Alaric slid his chair out and reached under his desk. “I packed you a lunch.”
“You made me a lunch?” Lizzie’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. 
“Yeah, I just - it’s been so long since I’ve gotten to send a kid off to school. I thought I’d dust off the sandwich-making skills.” Alaric handed Lizzie a bag with her name on it. 
“Well, thank you, daddy.”
“And here.” He handed her a second one with a different name on it. “I made one for Hope, too.”
“You made Hope a sandwich?” Lizzie’s face fell.
“Yeah.” Alaric shrugged. “Old habit to make two.” He eyed Lizzie worriedly. “Are you gonna be okay today?”
“I’ll be fine.” Lizzie said quickly, shoving both lunches into her bag, crushing Hope’s in the bottom. “I’m sixteen. I’m old enough to go to high school without my parents by my side.” She took a deep breath. “And I’m old enough to know the secrets you’re keeping. Why are Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Damon coming to talk to you and Mom? I know it's more than just the dragon."
Alaric cleared his throat. “Dorian will be there if you need anything, but remember: be subtle and no using magic.”
“I’ve got this.” Lizzie rolled her eyes. “Spy work is nothing I can’t handle.” She turned and headed for the door. “Keep an eye on Josie for me. She’s going to be so lost without me.”
“I love you!” Alaric called after his daughter.
“Love you too!”