Chapter 23

Marissa’s smile was tight. “Let’s drop it. Kids stuff, right? No big deal.” She reached for Serena’s cheek, but Paisley shielded the girl, her gaze icy. Marissa’s hand fell. “But no next time. We won’t tolerate our kids being bullied.”

Paisley’s eyes swept the three adults. Regret gnawed at her. Michelle chimed in smoothly, “Ms. Sutton, an apology’s in order.” She expected a quick resolution.

Paisley laughed, a sharp sound. “Why apologize? We don’t have all the facts. Who’s right, who’s wrong? Or do you judge based on parents’ status?”

Michelle’s face hardened. “Ms. Sutton, Serena’s clearly at fault. She hurt the other children. The parents aren't pressing charges, a simple apology should suffice. But you’re…” She stopped, the word “ungrateful” hanging unspoken.

“I trust my daughter,” Paisley declared. “She wouldn’t hurt anyone without reason. I want an investigation to clear her name.”

Dominick stared, then recognition dawned. This was the Paisley he knew – strong, unwavering. Marissa, sensing Dominick’s shift, pulled Stella closer. “Stella, tell us what happened again.”

Stella, pouting, dramatically recounted the incident. “That bad girl bothered Sonny. He ignored her, so she hit him—and me!” She displayed scraped palms.

Dominick turned to Grayson. “Is that right, son?”

Grayson hesitated, guilt flickering in his eyes. Seeing Paisley holding Serena, he nodded sharply, pointing. “Yeah, she’s a nutcase!”

Serena’s fresh tears flowed. Paisley examined Serena’s minor cuts. The school’s overreaction was blatant—it was all because of Dominick and Marissa’s influence. Any other parent would be silenced.

“No more talking,” Paisley snapped. “Let’s see the security footage. If it shows my daughter was wrong, I’ll apologize. But if not…”