Academic Discipline

Monday: Five Days Before

 "Mr. Darling?" The school secretary, Mrs. Lee poked her head into his office. She sighed, "There are some students here to see you." Mr. Darling took a sip of his peppermint tea and groaned,

"Would it happen to be the trouble trio?" Mrs. Lee chuckled,

"I think they call themselves the Paternoster Gang." Mr. Darling pushed his chair away from the desk and stalked towards the door,

"Mrs. Lee, I don't care what they call themselves-They're troublemakers through and through." Mrs. Lee dipped her head.

"Of course, troublemakers." She followed Mr. Darling out of his office. He could hear her murmuring, "But that Mary is a nice one." Mr. Darling couldn't deny that. Mary Williams was nice enough.

"This is your fault, Trent." Mr. Darling heard Savy growl, "My dad is going to ground me for two months this time." Trent groaned,

"I know, I know! It's often my fault." Savy scoffed,

"Often? No," She went on, "It's always your fault!" Mr. Darling heard Mary cut in,

"Guys, it doesn't matter whose fault it is. What matters is we're in trouble again." She sighed and Mr. Darling decided that it was a good time to interrupt.

"To what should I owe this visit?" he said by way of introduction as he stepped into the waiting area. Mary stood,

"Trent and Savy tried to rig the vending machine to spit out different drinks than commanded." Mr. Darling raised an eyebrow,

"And how are you tied up in this?" Mary shrugged,

"I was there." Mr. Darling sighed,

"Did you try to stop them?" Mary pulled on a lock of hair.

"Yes," she admitted. Mr. Darling nodded.

"Then you're dismissed."

"But, Mr. Darling," she implored, "I was there and honestly, I should have tried harder to stop them." Her friends gaped at her. Mr. Darling was surprised as well. Trent broke the silence.

"Are you trying to get in trouble?" Mr. Darling sighed,

"Miss Williams, I said you're dismissed and unless you wish to join your friends in more detention, I suggest you leave the office." Mary stayed.