And Principal Carter just he didn't even listen. Of course he didn't, Marcus said bitterly. Tyler's dad basically owns the school board, but there has to be something we can do. The real video has to exist somewhere. Madison has it, but she'll never share it.
Ayana scrolled through another article about Willoughby High's excellent academic environment. Maybe not willingly, Marcus said thoughtfully. But I might be able to help with that. I've been working on some new coding projects. Marcus Reed, are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?
I'm suggesting we fight smart. He said, "Look, this isn't just about you. I've heard whispers about other incidents, other students who've been bullied and silenced. " Ayana sat up straighter. I found something about that. Three years ago, a Hispanic student tried to report harassment.
The complaint mysteriously disappeared and her family moved away a month later. That's what they want, Marcus said. They want people to give up and go away. But you're not going anywhere, are you? No, Ayanna said firmly.
I'm not. She heard Marcus typing in the background. I'm looking at the school's public records now. Did you know they've had four different vice principles in 5 years? Each one left suddenly.
No explanation. Send me what you find, Ayanna said, opening a new document. I'm starting a timeline. They spent the next hour trading information, building a clearer picture of Willoughby High's darker side. Patterns emerged.
Complaints that vanished. Students who transferred, teachers who left abruptly. This is bigger than just Tyler and his friends. Marcus said, "It's systematic. They've been covering things up for years. " Ayana heard her mother stirring in the other room.
"I have to go. " "But Marcus, I need your help with this. I can't let them get away with it anymore. You know I've got your back," Marcus said. "Always have, always will. But we need to be careful.
These people have power and they're not afraid to use it. I know that eviction threat wasn't a coincidence. My house is safe, Marcus said. My parents are at work until late. Come over after school hours.
We can set up base there. Start gathering real evidence. Your mom won't mind. Are you kidding? Mom's been saying for years that somebody needs to stand up to the Prescots.
She'll probably bake us cookies while we work. That made Ayanna smile for the first time since yesterday. Thanks, Marcus. Really? Don't thank me yet.