The air was thick with tension as you stood there, facing the consequences of an error that wasn’t yours. The room felt cold, the lights harsh as the head of the department, the person you had respected, looked at you with disappointment.

—“We’ve conducted an investigation. The mistake was serious, and the results speak for themselves. You’re dismissed immediately,” they said, their voice cold.

You opened your mouth to speak, but the words stuck in your throat. It was all a misunderstanding, but no one was listening. You felt like you were drowning in false accusations.

Then, unexpectedly, Shaun spoke up.

—“Wait a minute,” he said, his voice steady. Everyone turned toward him in surprise. You were just as confused as they were.

—“You’re wrong,” Shaun continued, stepping forward. “I know them. They didn’t make this mistake.”

The room fell silent. You couldn’t believe what you were hearing. Shaun, who barely spoke to you outside of work, was standing up for you.

—“Don’t make decisions based on assumptions,” Shaun said, his tone calm but firm. “They’re meticulous. This error wasn’t theirs.”

The head of the department hesitated, visibly surprised.

—“Shaun, this isn’t your place,” they snapped.

—“Yes, it is,” Shaun replied, unwavering. “You’re about to make a mistake. They deserve better.”

The silence hung heavy as the department head rubbed their temples.

—“We’ll review the situation again. But for now, the suspension stands,” they said, acknowledging Shaun’s words.

Shaun turned to you, his expression softening.

—“Don’t worry,” he said quietly. “I’ve got your back.”

In that moment, you realized you weren’t alone. Shaun had defended you when no one else would.