Hey, i used to teach too--Pre-K in Florida for about two years and ESL and English for a year until I had to switch jobs (now I work for B&N) since my mother developed Parkinsons and I needed to move in with her.  So I know where you're coming from.

As for Tobias, he is based a great deal on a former alcoholic of my acquaintance, a relative actually, and most of his behavior and mannerisms are drawn from this person and the redemption part is also true. Many of my fictional characters are based upon real people I know or knew, which I guess is why they seem so real to me. I really pulled out all the stops for this one. . . emotionally speaking.  When I finished this I was a wreck, emotionally drained, but then that's how you're supposed to feel when you write something like this.

I'm glad you're enjoying this and there's more drama to come!