Chapter 51

Steve waited anxiously for Vice Principal Zientarski to continue. When the door had closed behind Natalie, the noted disciplinarian visibly relaxed.

"Mr. Norcutt, I believe you have had a few scrapes with the rules here in the past month or so. Fighting, and now smoking in the courtyard, correct?"

Steve nodded, unable to speak.

"You escaped the fighting incident without formal punishment, is that also correct?"

Again, a nod.

"We can't let that continue, young man. What message does that send to the other students? No, I think...I think a removal of privileges is in order here."

"Sir?"

"There will no be no extracurricular activities for you. No more Superfans at the baseball games, no more prom committee, and...you will not be allowed to attend this year's Prom."

"But sir -"

"Yes, Mr. Norcutt. Did you want to change your story? Maybe let us know whose cigarette was in that can of Pepsi?"

Steve took a deep breath. "No, sir. It was mine."

"I don't believe you at all, Mr. Norcutt. It's disappointing, that you refuse to tell the truth. Perhaps that is, in fact, why are you receiving this punishment. Perhaps the truth would lessen that punishment..." Vice Principal leaned forward, the overhead fluorescent light winking off his bald spot as he did. "Do you value the truth, Mr. Norcutt?"

"I do, sir. I'm taking the blame for the cigarette. It was mine. It was wrong, and I'm sorry."

"Very well. You'll also be serving an in-school suspension for the rest of the day and tomorrow. Coach Rivers, would you escort Mr. Norcutt to the in-school suspension room?"

Coach Rivers wordlessly opened the door and followed Steve out. As Steve walked, eyes down, he failed to notice Jennipher Semmes, hall pass in hand, watch him go.