?Chapter 1036:


    Ste nodded, looking rather pleased with herself. “Good. And make sure you remember what you just said, because next time, you won’t get to pick your punishment.”


    Richie looked like he was about to explode. He shoved past the stocky boy beside him and stormed out the back door without another word.


    The other boy hesitated for a second, threw a nervous look at Ste and William, then quickly followed Richie out.


    Soon, the room was quiet again, leaving just Ste, William, and Jeff, who was still bound to the chair, lookingpletely drained.


    Ste walked over, loosened the ropes, and gently helped him to his feet before guiding him toward the door.


    As they made their way downstairs, Jeff’s voice shook a little. “I’m really sorry, Ste. You shouldn’t have had to get involved because of me.”


    He couldn’t help thinking that if he’d just been braver, he wouldn’t have had to call Ste in desperation, worrying about his mom.


    Ste gave his shoulder a light pat and spoke softly. “Hey, it’s not your fault. Don’t apologize. Did they do anything to you?”


    Jeff shook his head quickly, though the color still hadn’t returned to his face.


    He then nced at William walking behind them and mumbled, “Thanks, Mr. Briggs… for stepping in earlier.”


    William gave a small nod and said nothing. His eyes stayed on Ste, his face unreadable, calm but distant.


    None of them spoke as they walked out of the building. The sun had already dipped below the horizon, leaving behind only the quiet hum of insects in the still evening air.


    Ste turned toward Jeff, who still looked shaken, and said gently, “Come on, I’ll walk you back to your dorm.”


    Jeff forced a small smile but nced at William, who stood behind like a looming shadow. “It’s alright, Ste. I can head back myself. You’ve already done more than enough.”


    He had already lost enough dignity for one day. All he’d wanted was for Ste to think well of him, but after what happened, that dream felt pretty much shattered.


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    Ste looked at him warmly. “Hey, don’t overthink it. Today doesn’t change anything between us. We’ll still be the same, alright?”


    For a moment, a bit of hope lit up Jeff’s eyes, but it faded just as fast. “I’ll get going then. See you, Ste,” he said quietly before turning away.


    As Ste watched him leave, her chest tightened.


    Someone his age shouldn’t have to deal with such burdens; he should’ve been worrying about exams or weekend ns, not all this.


    “You really care about him, don’t you?”


    William’s voice came from behind, steady but edged with unmistakable jealousy.


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