Chapter 38: How Is He Well–Behaved?
Liam was already on guard, having learned self-defense from Joker while abroad. So, when Brody approached, Liam effortlessly dodged him.
Seizing the opportunity, Liam extended his leg, tripping Brody. Brody tumbled to the ground clumsily.
Infuriated and embarrassed, Brody scrambled to his feet, grabbing Liam’s leg.
Liam had initially intended to evade, but Brody’s strength proved superior, causing him to be pulled down to the ground.
Soon enough, the two were entangled in a scuffle.
The other children were frightened and hurried off to inform the teacher.
Alarmed, the teacher and the vice principal rushed to separate them and took them to the office for a stern reprimand. “What’s the matter with you two? How can you fight for no reason? It’s truly unacceptable!”
“Miss, Brody started it.”
Liam had several bruises all over his body, and his forehead was swollen from being struck by a ball. Still, he remained composed.
Brody, sporting a battered face, retorted, “You’re lying. Miss, he started it. Punish William right now, or I’ll call my dad here!”
Unaware of the specifics, the teacher intended to investigate before making any judgments. However, the vice principal became visibly anxious when Brody mentioned his father. Brody’s father held influence in the district’s education bureau, and offending him could have dire consequences.
The vice principal wasted no time in scolding Liam. “William, you just transferred here today and are already fighting with your classmates. How can you behave so recklessly? Apologize to Brody immediately! Look at the state you’ve left him in!”
Liam furrowed his brow, feeling unjust. “I didn’t start it. Brody threw the ball at me first. I asked for an apology, but he refused and even hit me. I did nothing wrong, so why should I apologize?”
“You dare to argue? When we rushed over, you were pressing down on Brody and hitting him. I saw it all!” the vice principal said sternly.
Sensing something amiss, the teacher asked, “Shouldn’t we investigate before making a decision?”
“Quiet!” the vice principal snapped before squinting and threatening Liam, “William, apologize right now, pretend nothing happened. But if we involve your parents, it won’t be as simple!”
“I won’t apologize!” Liam declared stubbornly, his eyes welling up. “Mommy said I must not bow down to others easily! It’s Brody’s fault, not mine!”
“Fine, if that’s how you want it, I’ll call your parents immediately.”
With that, the vice principal made a phone call, informing Brody’s parents.
Meanwhile, Olivia and Nathan were still stuck in traffic. They encountered an accident on their way to the kindergarten, and their car was at a standstill.
After waiting for half an hour, the vice principal called, causing a crease on Olivia’s forehead.
“What happened? My son has always been well-behaved. How could he be involved in a fight?”
“How is he well-behaved? He even defied the teacher! You better come over quickly. Your son severely injured another child in the fight. This matter won’t be easily resolved.”
The vice principal ended the call abruptly. Olivia put away her phone, looking worried.
Nathan, who overheard some of the conversation, asked softly, “What’s going on?”
Olivia shook her head. “The teacher said Liam got into a fight…”
She appeared anxious as she glanced at the line of cars before her and opened the car door abruptly. “I’m concerned about him. I’ll go there first! You stay here until the traffic clears.”
Then she left without waiting for Nathan’s response.
