Chapter 19 - The Final Route
As Arthur approached his sixty-sixth birthday, he decided it was time to truly retire.
His reflexes were slowing down, and he wanted to spend more time with his grandchildren.
He announced his departure to the school district, giving them a month's notice.
On his final Friday afternoon, the bus depot threw him a small farewell party.
They ate cheap cake and shared funny stories about unruly students.
But the real surprise came during his final afternoon route.
When he pulled up to the middle school, a large crowd was waiting.
Students, parents, and teachers stood holding colorful, handmade signs.
"Thank you, Mr. Pendelton!" they cheered as he opened the doors.
Maya stepped forward, holding a beautifully wrapped gift box.
"We are going to miss you so much," she said, hugging him tightly.
May you like
Arthur’s eyes welled up with happy tears.
He realized the impact he had made on this community was profound.
