Chen Fu's mother, casting a disdainful glance at Gu Zi, waved off the conversation. "Let's not dwell on this, shall we? No need to make a fuss over a pencil case. We'll compensate you and be done."
Many bystanders felt it was a mere child's dispute and best left unextended.
If she was willing to settle with money, it seemed acceptable. This woman appeared quite adamant. No one expected an apology. Payment was considered sufficient.
However, Gu Zi believed the issue wasn't about compensation. What she sought was an apology for her sons.
More important than money was safeguarding the children's emotional well-being.
Without an apology from Chen Fu's mother and him, it wouldn't be a fair resolution, even with compensation.
Su Bing and Su Li also felt unjustly treated. By accepting only compensation, would it imply they lacked understanding of sharing?
Su Li knew his refusal wasn't about being selfish. He was cautious because he anticipated trouble from Chen Fu. Should he give away his possessions, knowing it might lead to trouble?
The pencil case held sentimental value from his dad. An apology mattered more than money.
Gu Zi comforted Su Bing and Su Li, giving them a sense of assurance that she wouldn't allow them to be treated unfairly.
Su Bing admired the resolve of this woman. She seemed determined to stand up for them.
Gu Zi insisted, "Consider this scenario: If you were enjoying dessert in the park, would you allow someone to demand it from you? You wouldn't. Polite people don't snatch nor show displeasure at a refusal."
It was evident who lacked manners here. Gu Zi couldn't stand by as accusations tarnished the reputation of Su Bing and Su Li.
Having reason and fairness was crucial. Gu Zi wanted Su Bing and Su Li to understand this principle.
Chen Fu's mother was at a loss, visibly agitated. "That's because your son was unwilling to share. If your son had been willing, would this unpleasantness have occurred?"
Gu Zi argued, "Every individual is independent. Sharing assumes respect for another person's individuality. Otherwise, it's not sharing; it's seizing! It's thievery and bullying. Merely compensating isn't enough. Both you and your son owe mine an apology!"
The surrounding parents began discussing. Some admired the woman, noting her rational arguments, her pursuit of proper compensation, and her defense of her children's emotional well-being.
They couldn't help but contemplate how they might handle such a situation if it were their own child. They realized they might not be as eloquent or as adept at fighting for justice.
As a stepmother, her dedication to these two kids was truly remarkable.
This matter was indeed not just about compensation. Chen Fu's mother and son needed to apologize for their rudeness and counter-accusations.
However, surprisingly, some sided with Chen Fu's mother, considering it trivial since compensation had been agreed upon.
They said, "Young lady, you're too idealistic. It's unnecessary to nitpick everything. These kids barely understand right from wrong. Let it go, compensation settles it."
'Yes, today's supposed to be a joyful day at school. Don't drag us into your family squabbles!"
Su Bing felt uneasy hearing these remarks. Chen Fu's mother and son were clearly out of line. How could they blame his mother?
He wanted to retaliate but was stopped by Gu Zi, who calmly stated, "We don't need everyone's approval, just fairness and human rights. Don't mind them; after all, it's not their child feeling aggrieved."
Su Bing stood still obediently. Those who advocated for peace suddenly became quieter. Their attempted moral pressure didn't seem to affect this young woman.
Chen Fu's mother adopted an arrogant posture. "Apologize? Impossible! Neither my son nor I are at fault. If you think I've broken the law, call the police!"
She was a sales assistant at a pork stall in a department store. This was a very prestigious official job, and it was always others who came to curry favor with her..
...