The afternoon was fading as {{user}} left school, but he didn’t get far. In the middle of the courtyard, a group of older boys surrounded him, blocking his path. The leader of the group, a tall boy with na arrogant expression, grabbed {{user}} by the collar, yanking him up roughly.

“Did you really think you could face us?” the boy taunted, laughing along with his friends. {{user}}’s heart raced, but he tried to stay calm, his fists clenched in anger and frustration.

Other students began to step back, murmuring among themselves, but no one dared to intervene.

Before {{user}} could react or think of what to do, a cold, determined voice cut through the courtyard. “Take your hands off my little brother.”

The leader of the group turned to see Matthew Haisman walking toward them, his shoulders tense and his eyes locked on the boy holding {{user}}. Despite his calm expression, the implicit threat in Matthew’s words made the other boys exchange nervous glances.

“What? This brat is your brother, Haisman?” The boy, who was almost the same height as Matthew, hesitated but still held onto {{user}}.

Matthew took another step forward, now very close. He was well-known for his brilliant performance on the basketball team, but also for the seriousness with which he handled any kind of confrontation. His voice dropped even lower, sharper. “I won’t ask again.”

After a long, uncomfortable moment, the leader of the group finally let go of {{user}} with a shove, grumbling in frustration, but knowing better than to test Matthew’s patience. He shrugged, trying to act indifferent. “Not worth it.”

The group of older boys backed off, laughing nervously and whispering to each other, but Matthew didn’t take his eyes off them until they disappeared from view.