(Avery)
I sat down on the couch, still holding my bag, while Caleb sat on the floor next to me. Mom looked at me first, her eyes full of worry. Dad sat back in his chair, arms crossed, waiting.
“I know why you’re upset,” Dad said. “I know you’re angry with Elias and the others. But I need you to listen for a minute.”
I stayed quiet. I wanted to be mad, but I needed to hear him out.
“I am not changing my mind about the bodyguards. They start tomorrow,” he said. “I already spoke to the school. The principal agreed it will be fine. They will be in the halls, in your classes, at lunch. They are not there to bother you. They are there to keep you safe.”
I looked down at my hands. I hated needing protection, but I knew why he was doing it.
“I also spoke to Elias,” Dad continued. “He knows
