“Sara,” Tiffany Reeves called as she walked back into the kitchen while Sara finished cleaning the kitchen island baseboards.
“Yeah, Mom,” Sara said as she stood up.
“I got off the phone with Tamara’s mother. She was telling me that you punched her daughter in gym class. I told her she must be mistaken as I know my daughter wouldn’t behave like that.” Tiffany said
“Did she tell you the part where Tamara was bullying Jordan?” Sara said
“I’m more interested in the part where my daughter decided to meet violence with more violence. You were raised better than that.”
“But Mom, I couldn’t let her hurt Jordan,” Sara said, trying to defend her actions.
“I understand you want to protect Jordan. However, that doesn’t excuse violence. You were raised to use your words.” Tiffany said with a cross expression.
“Yes, ma’am,” Sara said.
“Now, you come with me,” Tiffany said as she walked out of the kitchen.
“But mom, please. I’m sorry.” Sara said, walking behind her mother.
“Don’t be sorry. Be better.”Tiffany could be heard saying before the door closed.
“Maybe I should have said something. I mean, it was my fault,” Jordan said, feeling a bit responsible for getting Sara in trouble.
“Oh, I’m sure you’re going to get it. How good are you at groveling?” Ellie asked.
“Groveling? I feel bad, but it’s not completely my fault. I didn’t ask her to punch Tamara.”
“Suit yourself. Just as someone who has known Sara her entire life. Let me just say right now, she’s getting a whoppin’ because you picked a fight with Miss All-State. I’m just saying if I were you. I’d be looking to stay in her good graces. But hey, she’s your master. Do what you please.” Ellie said as she took a drink of water.
“She is not my master. I keep telling you all that I’m not a pet.” Jordan said in frustration as Sara walked back into the kitchen with her eyes a bit puffy from crying.
“Are you okay? We can sit and talk about it if you want?” Ellie asked.
“I’d rather stand,” Sara said, rubbing her bottom.
“Look, Sara. I’m really sorry. I had no idea that you would get –”
“It’s fine, Jordan. You’re my responsibility. So your actions reflect on me. I don’t regret defending you. I knew we would have some growing pains as you acclimate to your new life.” Sara said
Jordan didn’t like the connotation of it all, and he hated the idea of being Sara’s responsibility. But it was clear her parents thought of him as just her pet, and she was expected to keep him in line.
“I finished our Math homework, and I just copied over the last couple of answers to your paper. We should go change, though. We are still going to work, right?” Ellie said as she started packing up her books.
“Yeah, of course. All things considered. I guess it could have been worse. I didn’t get grounded any longer than I already was. I knew I shouldn’t have punched Tamara, and I was so upset with how she treated my little man.” Sara said as she placed her hand on the table for Jordan to climb into.
“Honestly, your behavior shows real maturity. I thought you would have been furious at the little guy.” Ellie said.
“At my wittle, man? How could I be mad at him? He doesn’t know any better and will have all night to think about it in his habitat while we’re at work. As getting to come to work with me is a privilege, not a right.” Sara said as she walked upstairs to her room with Ellie.
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