“What’s wrong?” my father asked as Rin-kun came over.
“I’ve just spoken with the principal,” he replied frowning “I’m sorry but Jon has been suspended for the rest of the week.”
“What?” I gasped.
“How does he justify suspending the victim?” snapped my mother.
“Apparently the bullies spun some tale about Jon attacking them,” replied Rin-kun, clenching his fists, “The other boy I told you about says it was the other way around and that Jon was defending himself. Either way the principal has decided to suspend Jon for fighting.” He blew air, calming down “On the upside he’s also suspended the two bullies for the remainder of the week. Mr Meadows may hold considerable sway, but this is big enough that it can’t be swept under the rug entirely. Small solice though.”
“This is intolerable,” replied my mother shaking her head, “I’m going to have a word with that principal.”
“Regardless,” said Rin-kun, “Even if you can get the suspension overturned, I’m sending Jon home for today; doctor’s orders.” He walked over to a cupboard and pulled out a wheelchair. “I want you to take it easy Jon. That means bed rest - I don’t want to hear that you were up and about.” He gestured to my father and the two of them helped me into the chair. I felt a bit foolish as I felt fine enough to have moved myself; heck I felt good enough to have walked out but I knew Rin-kin and my father wouldn’t allow that so I just followed their lead.
“Thank you doctor,” said my mother. Turning to my father she said “Go in ahead home while I talk to the principal, I’ll fill you in when I’m done.”
“C’mon kiddo,” smiled my father wearily, “Let’s get you home.”
Rin-kun walked with us, pushing my chair. I guessed it was because it was school property so he’d need it back after I got to the car, but it turned out he wanted to chat with my father.
“I’m glad the school has you on staff Rin,” smiled my father “Jon’s lucky to have a teacher that’s such an able physician and who won’t bend to that asshole Meadow’s whims.”
“You flatter me Doctor,” bushed Rin-kun.
“Rin, how many times do I have to tell you to call me Richard?”
“Sorry, force of habit.”
“Do you guys know each other?” I interjected.
“Rin interned at my lab when he was studying for his degree,” chuckled my father, “Most of what I know about Kemoman comes from working with him.”
“I learnt a lot from your father,” grinned Rin-kun, “His guidance is actually what inspired me to become a teacher.” We reached my father’s car and the two of them again helped me out.
“It was good seeing you again Rin,” smiled my father, shaking his hand “We should meet up some time to catch up.”
“I’d like that,” replied Rin-kun “If you don’t mind I’d like to make a house call later after school to check up on Jon. Plus it’d be good for him to have another kemoman to talk to; it’s a lot to take in.”
“Sounds like a good idea,” nodded my father, “See you later then Rin.”
“Goodbye Richard. See you later Jon.”
“See you Sensei,” I smiled, waving back at him as my father got into the car.
