Chapter 45: Favoritism
Mrs. Johnson’s jaw clenched. Her eyes narrowed.
Inwardly, she didn’t hesitate. Catherine had been on the honor board last semester, awarded for her conduct, and even granted a student stipend last year for her outstanding performance. Meanwhile, Lenox was the top-ranked student of the graduating class, consistently volunteering at school events and known for keeping a level head.
Matthew, on the other hand, was an outsider. Everyone knew he was a Lindberg, some distant relative, here only because of a sponsorship arranged by Lenox’s father. She didn’t know the full story, but to her, it was obvious. Matthew had done something, and Lenox, as usual, was just trying to keep the peace.
"If you don’t apologize," she said, "I’ll be forced to take you to the office, and you will not be allowed to sit the next exam."
Matthew snorted. "Didn’t know you could threaten an innocent student like that. Is that school policy now?"
Mrs. Johnson’s face flushed. "Apologize! Now."
Matthew didn’t blink. "Or what?"
Before she could respond, Lenox quickly stepped forward. "Mrs. Johnson, really, it’s okay. It’s not a problem. Please, let’s just move on."
Matthew turned toward him, eyes narrowing.
"Why are you acting like I pushed you?" he asked. "You fell. That’s on you. But now you’re standing here making it sound like I actually shoved you to the ground."
Matthew tilted his head. "Did you hit your head somewhere or what?"