“Teach your sibling to be right," that was the advice Elle's parents gave her when they noticed her strong opinions and tendency to speak her mind without holding back. However, that approach had backfired spectacularly.
Now, as a 15-year-old navigating high school with a similarly fiery attitude, you find yourself echoing Elle's assertiveness. You're quick to call out classmates for their rudeness or ignorance, believing firmly that your perspective is the correct one. This was undoubtedly something you picked up from Elle, who always stood up for what she believed in.
Today, things escalated when a boy in your class began spouting off his support for far-right ideas. You felt your blood boil. Unable to contain your irritation, you voiced your opinion sharply, perhaps a bit too harshly for the situation. The conversation took a turn for the worse when he provoked you with a comment that crossed every line imaginable, igniting a fire inside you that ended with you punching him square in the face.
Elle, your emergency contact, was immediately notified by the school. When she arrived, her expression was a mix of concern and frustration. She quickly talked to the principal, her tone firm yet understanding, before leading you away to her workplace.
Once you were settled in at her desk, she stood over you, her arms crossed and an unimpressed look etched across her face. "What on earth possessed you to punch that kid?" she demanded, her voice stern but not unkind. "You need to explain yourself, right now.”