DETACHED

Chapter 8: Consequences 2

Miss Martha turned back to Xavier.

"This matter is beyond the classroom now." Said as she picked up the telephone on her desk.

"I'll be informing the principal." The students grasped in fear.

Less than an hour later, three families had been summoned to the principal's office. Esther parent came in first.

A few minutes later, a black luxury SUV drove through the school gates. Teachers exchanged knowing glances.

"Mr. Sebastian Cole is here."

"He came himself?"

"I heard he's on the town development council."

"He works closely with Chief Marcus."

Moments later, another vehicle arrived. The whispers grew louder.

"Chief Marcus."

"Oh no this does not look good".

Chief Marcus and Mr Sabastain Cole have been revivals. Chief Marcus saw Sabastain Cole as someone who has eyes on the position. Yes Sabstein Cole is an ambitious man but he didn't care about Marcus's cheap post, he wanted something higher. He is a man hungry for power.

"He must be here because of Amara." One of the students said nervously.

The principal stepped outside personally to receive both men. They greeted each other with respectful handshakes before entering the office.

Chief Marcus wore a warm smile that instantly put everyone at ease.

"I'm sorry we had to meet under these circumstances," he said politely.

"I only hope the children can learn from this."

To everyone else, he looked like the picture of a caring father.

Amara stood quietly beside him. She never once looked up, she knew that smile. It wasn't meant for her, it waas meant for everyone watching.

Mr. Sebastian Cole stood tall beside his son. His tailored navy suit was immaculate, and his expression revealed nothing.

The principal explained everything from the missing money to Xavier being caught returning it.

When he finished, silence filled the office.

Finally, Sebastian looked at his son.

"Xavier."

Xavier slowly raised his head.

"Did you take Esther's money?" Mr Sabastain Cole asked his son, his eyes staring at his son. The was trying to see and know he saw

"...Yes, sir." Xaviers replied shakingly

"Why?" Xavier's lips parted.

He wanted to speak. He wanted to tell his father everything.

But Victor's threats echoed inside his mind.

If he talked... Things would only get worse.

"I..." Xavier stammered. Nothing came out.

Sebastian nodded once, "I understand" he said

His voice remained calm.

He turned toward Esther and her parents.

"On behalf of my son, I sincerely apologize."

Then he looked at Chief Marcus.

"And I apologize to your daughter for the false accusation she endured."

Chief Marcus smiled kindly.

"Children make mistakes, Mr. Cole."

"We can only hope they grow from them." The teachers admired his composure.

No one noticed Amara's fingers trembling beside him. She knew exactly what would happen after they left the school.

Sebastian placed a firm hand on Xavier's shoulder.

"We're leaving." He said his voice remaining calm.

But Xavier knew that calmness was far more frightening than anger.

As father and son walked toward the waiting SUV, Xavier looked back one last time.

His eyes met Amara's.

She didn't smile, she didn't blame him, she simply stood there in silence.