I am Alaricka Huston, involved in the recent Mcintosh Piano Competition incident. First, I solemnly apologize to Ms. Whitaker and netizens: Iโm sorry.
Regarding recent events, I admit my impulsive, thoughtless actions led me to slander Ms. Whitaker at the Mcintosh Piano Competition finals. My stupidity subjected her to undeserved maliceโI deeply regret this.
After days of reflection, I formally apologize: Iโm truly sorry.
I acknowledge that the plagiarism accusations around โYearning Sonataโ and โLoveโs Affectionโ werenโt traditional theftโMs. Whitaker acted to promote Ms. Lindsey Weaver and โYearning Sonata.โ Her intentions were pure, so it wasnโt plagiarism. I reiterate my sincere apologies to Roschelle Whitaker.
This whole mess stems from my foolishness and jealousy toward Roschelle Whitakerโs achievements. Blinded by envy, I slandered her. Ms. Whitaker is noble, kind, and forgivingโI was petty and wrong to attack her. Iโm deeply ashamed.
I admit, in every aspect, I fall short of Ms. Whitaker. From today onward, I will be plunged into endless remorse and apology. I have no words to face Ms. Whitaker and the public.
Regarding the doxxing incident online, I have no standing, no face to condemn it. I am willing to accept criticism and guidance from netizens without a momentโs complaint.
But this entire matter was my doing alone. Those around me were never involved, including my school, teachers, and fellow students. They are all innocent. The school and teachers diligently educate students. It was my momentary misstep, my wrong path, that dragged them down. I equally have no words to face the school, and I cannot bear that such a fine school and teachers face undeserved condemnation because of me.
I implore the public to shift their focus from those around me onto me. Do not harm the innocent as I did. All blame rests solely on my shoulders. Thank you, everyone!
Reading this statement, a flicker of sarcasm passed through Alariekaโs eyes. The entire declaration did nothing but elevate Ms. Whitaker while trampling herself. Phrases like โmy own foolish actions,โ โMs. Whitakerโs original intentions were good, it doesnโt count as plagiarism,โ โMs. Whitaker possesses noble character,โ and โI was foolish, I was jealous, I was impulsive,โ and so onโฆ How laughable.
Alarieka could easily imagine that if she truly posted this statement, she would never again be able to live like a normal person in the sunlight. From then on, sheโd be condemned to live in the sewers.
She could also imagine Ms. Whitaker, upon seeing such a flattering statement, her head would swell with pride. Her โdepressionโ would probably vanish instantly.
The school was truly going to great lengths.
She remained silent for a long time. The Dean and others grew impatient: โAlarieka, have you gone mute? Canโt you speak?โ
Just as she lifted her head, Reyna Wright grabbed her wrist from behind: โAlaricka, donโt agree. This kind of statement is meant to ruin you.โ
Alaricka gave a faint smile, neither refuting nor agreeing.
She raised her head, facing the Dean. Her eyes, dark pupils against white, were like a clear, still pond โ calm, composed, utterly unruffled. Her voice was cool.
Everyone in the office watched her. Everyone heard Alarieka say:
โAlright. I agree.โ
The Principal and the Dean immediately broke into smiles.
The Principal said: โGood, good, good. I knew you were a good kid.โ
The Dean, finally satisfied, said magnanimously: โFine. Then go back first and log into your own social media account to post the statement. We wonโt expel you, but you did do wrong. You still need to go home and suspend your studies. After some time, when this blows over, weโll call you back to class. During this time, stay home and study hard. If you study well, you still have a chance to become the provincial top scorer.โ