When Steve came to, the first thing he saw was Vice Principal Rodriguez's some-would-say-oversized nose. Beyond that, he saw the high ceiling and smelled the antiseptic clean of the nurses' office.
"What happened?" he rasped.
"We were wondering if you could tell us, Steve." Vice Principal Rodriguez was all concern.
"Christian was attacking Bobby B, so I..."
"Threw a punch?"
Steve remained silent, focusing on drawing breath. Who knew that being choked into unconsciousness would hurt so much when you woke up?
"Steve? Did you throw a punch?" There was an edge of anger underneath the concern.
"Yes, ma'am. It was all I could think to do."
"You could have called for a teacher."
"I should have."
"And when a teacher came, you kicked him."
"What?"
"You kicked Herr Cottle in the face. He's okay, probably going to have a fat lip, but it is technically assault."
"What?" Steve's surprise dissolved into a fit of coughing. When it cleared, Vice Principal Rodriguez had a small smirk on her face.
"Don't worry, young man. Herr Cottle realizes it was an accident and isn't going to press charges. But there is the small matter of your punishment. Now, Nurse Kats is going to keep you here for observation for the rest of the day. She's also going to recommend you take the next three days off from school."
"I'm suspended?"
"I don't want a suspension to go on your record. But I can't let the other students think you got off without punishment. Having you not around for three days will be enough for them to think you've been suspended, unless you disabuse them of that notion, in which case, yes, a suspension will go on your record."
"Is Bob okay?"
"He's fine. Now get some rest. If you need anything, Nurse Kats is in the next room. I'll see you after three days."
"Bye."
"Feel better, Steve."
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