First, Jake is apprehended for drugs immediately after we taught you a lesson. Then, I am caught selling ecigarettes. Do you believe we are unintelligent? I believe you have entangled yourselves in trouble and requires someone to assign blame. Brandon's voice trembled with a mixture of fear and indignation.
You have devastated their lives. Jake has forfeited his scholarships. Tyler is facing criminal charges. What did we ever do to warrant such treatment? Actions have consequences, Zara responded calmly.
Perhaps you should have contemplated that before you laid hands upon me. Those words struck with the force of a physical blow. Jake's expression darkened with dawning recognition. So, you confess you have been orchestrating this entire situation. I confess that bullies eventually face justice one way or another.
Tyler advanced another step, his fists tightly clenched. Justice? You believe ruining our futures constitutes justice for some trivial prank? Trivial prank? Zara's composed demeanor faltered slightly.
You humiliated me in front of half the student body. You ripped my uniform. You made me feel powerless and terrified. Good. Jake snarled.
Perhaps now you comprehend our feelings. The distinction, Zara countered, is that you chose to be tormentors. I chose to defend myself. Well, congratulations, Tyler stated. You have prevailed.
We are all in dire straits. Satisfied now? Not yet. The admission hung in the air like a challenge. Jake's eyes narrowed ominously.
What further retribution do you demand from us? I desire for you to comprehend that there are individuals in this world whom you cannot intimidate. Individuals who will not be subjected to victimization simply because you deem it appropriate. Brandon stepped forward, his countenance contorted with desperation. We understand.
All right. You are formidable. You are intelligent. You have defeated us. Can we simply consider this a mutual agreement?