Chapter 134
Charlotte glanced down at Shirley, her voice calm. “It’s up to you. You decide what happens next.”
“Me?” Shirley’s fingers tightened around the edge of Charlotte’s shirt, her lips pressed together. She looked at Dennis sprawled on the floor and remembered all those days she’d been bullied. She let out a shaky breath and, with new determination, spoke up. “Anyone who does something wrong… has to face the consequences. The school should expel Dennis. As for calling the police
“Shirley Henry Dean suddenly dropped to his knees, desperation written all over his face. “Please, just give him another chance. I’m begging you.”
Everyone around them was stunned, but no one was really surprised. It was obvious that Henry had spoiled his son for too long. He probably never imagined someone would actually have the courage to call out Dennis’s behavior like this.
Shirley hesitated, her small face scrunched in thought. After a few seconds of silence, she let out a soft sigh. “I’m… keeping the right to press charges.”
She wasn’t calling the police today, but that didn’t mean she wouldn’t in the future. It was like hanging a warning over Dennis’s head. Next time, there wouldn’t be any mercy.
Charlotte’s lips curled with satisfaction. At least Shirley was smart enough to protect herself.
“Thank you, thank you.” Henry Dean got to his feet in a hurry, grabbing Dennis by the back of the neck. His voice was sharp. “Home. Now.”
As they walked past Anthony, Henry stopped and managed to stammer, “Anthony, I’m sorry for the trouble.”
“Watch your words. Don’t trip over your own tongue.” Anthony lounged in his chair, eyes cool and dark. There was something about him that made people’s nerves stand on edge.
“Yes, of course.” Henry understood the warning loud and clear. The connection between Charlotte and Anthony was obviously not simple.
The office finally quieted down. The school board official packed up his things and headed over to Charlotte. “Charlotte, you handled everything really well today. By the way, could I get your number? I’d love to ask you about some computer stuff sometime
He smiled and reached out a hand, full of praise.
Charlotte’s brows drew together, a hint of annoyance in her eyes. She instinctively stepped back and bumped into something warm and solid.
She looked up and saw Anthony, who had somehow come to stand right behind her. One hand rested lightly at her waist, the other blocking the official’s outstretched hand.
“She has exams coming up and needs to focus on her studies. She doesn’t have time for this sort of thing.” Anthony’s features were cold and sharp, his eyes icy. The chill in thept was enough to make anyone shiver.
The official seemed startled and quickly nodded. “You’re right, Anthony. I won’t bother her again.” He hurried out of the office.
Now, only Eleanor, Ronald, and a still-dazed Shirley were left. All three of them couldn’t help but stare at the pair standing together.
Anthony leaned in, his voice low and teasing by Charlotte’s ear. “You okay, kid?”
Charlotte slipped out of his arms, her cheeks turning a light pink as her eyes darted away. “Thanks, uncle.”
Uncle?
Ronald’s face dropped, looking at Charlotte with barely concealed
annoyance. Just becausing
had said a few words for her, she was already trying to get close to him.
Eleanor sucked in a breath. Mr. Blair didn’t even look that old. And she called him
uncle? Where did she get the nerve for that?