It didn’t take long. Then Edwardo stepped out, his expression unchanged as if the conversation had required no effort at all.
Logan didn’t look at me. He didn’t look at Luke. His father avoided everyone entirely, his gaze fixed somewhere on the floor as if eye contact had become too much.
Principal Miller cleared his throat, trying to regain control of the situation. “We’ll proceed.”
Luke’s mom spoke before anyone else could. “There’s no reason for me to remain.” Her voice was cool, precise. “It’s clear my son acted in defense of a student. There will be no consequences for him.”
Her gaze flicked briefly to Luke. “I’ll see you at home.”
Luke didn’t react outwardly, but his shoulders squared slightly, his stance tensed for a fraction of a second before settling again.
She didn’t wait for a response. She turned and walked out, her posture flawless, her exit as controlled as her presence.
Miller watched her go then gestured for us to move into the office. We followed.
Logan sat stiffly in his chair, his face swollen, his eyes fixed on the desk. His father remained beside him, equally silent.
Miller closed the door. “After reviewing the situation and speaking with all parties involved, Logan will be expelled effective immediately.”
No reaction. Not from Logan and not from his father.
Miller continued, “As for further action, the school prefers to handle this internally unless you wish to press charges.” His gaze shifted to me.
I met it evenly. “No.” There was nothing to gain from dragging this out.
Miller nodded, relieved. “Then this matter will remain within the school.”
Logan and his father were dismissed without another word. Neither of them looked at anyone as they left.
The door closed behind them. The room felt different without them in it. Lighter. But not by much.
We stepped back into the hallway. Mom turned to me immediately, her concern returning full force now that the situation had been contained. “Are you sure you’re okay?”
“I’m fine,” I repeated. “I’m just annoyed he got the jump on me.”
Edwardo’s mouth curved slightly. “I saw enough.”
“I got enough hits in,” I added. “More than him pushing me around.”
His expression shifted, something proud settling into place. “I believe it.”
Mom pulled me into a careful hug, mindful of where I might be sore. I leaned into her, letting myself take it for a second before pulling back.
Edwardo stepped away to speak with Luke, his voice low.
Mom studied my face again, searching for anything I might be hiding. “Let’s go home.”
“I don’t want to go yet,” I admitted. “I need a minute to decompress.”
Luke’s hand closed around mine, firm and certain, his thumb brushing once against my skin before stilling. “I’ve got her.”
Mom hesitated, her gaze flicking between us.
“We’ll go to the rink,” Luke added. “She’ll be safe.”
Edwardo gave a small nod, already on board. “All right.”
Mom exhaled, still reluctant, but she didn’t argue.