Justin had once been someone she admired. A divorced single mother, she had harbored feelings for him, but he had rejected her. Now, seeing him in this mess, involved with a student’s sister, she couldn’t help but wonder how she had missed the signs. Her frustration grew, knowing the implications of the situation, but she felt helpless. There was evidence, and that made it harder for anyone to deny.
He rubbed his forehead in frustration, feeling the weight of the situation. He knew exactly what she was trying to do, but there was little he could do to stop it now. With the evidence in hand, his hands were tied.
Turning to Jack, Justin spoke firmly. “I’ve already explained that your grades depend on your exam responses. You and Robb are roommates; you should know better than anyone his abilities and his grades. If you think you can manipulate your way into being an exceptional student with these photos, you’re mistaken.”
Jack’s face fell, his frustration evident. “Why? I’ve worked so hard for this! All Robb had was a sister who could seduce you, and he got everything so easily. How is that fair?”
Justin’s anger flared, and he slammed his fist on the table. “Don’t accuse me without evidence! I’ve told you time and time again that I do things fairly. If you have questions, ask me directly. What’s your purpose in using these dirty little tricks?”
Though Justin was clearly angry, he welcomed challenges to his integrity, especially when it came to his work as a teacher. He wasn’t bothered by people questioning him—he was bothered by the underhanded tactics being used against him. Jack had taken these pictures, clearly intending to create a misunderstanding and use them as leverage. If these rumors got out, Justin knew it could ruin his career and future prospects.
“If you’re still unconvinced,” Justin continued, his voice steady, “you may publicly compete with him! Why resort to petty tactics like these?”
The female teacher, who had remained silent until now, interjected. “Aren’t we still figuring out the truth here? Why are you so angry with a student?”
Justin turned his sharp gaze on her, anger flaring. “You, as a teacher, are supposed to be fair. But just because you and I have history, you’re here trying to make things worse for me?” He didn’t hold back in his rebuke.
Her face paled instantly, but she refused to admit her intentions. “Fine, I won’t get involved in your mess anymore,” she snapped, turning and walking out of the room.
She knew better than to challenge Justin further. Once she was gone, Justin turned his attention back to the matter at hand. Throughout the entire confrontation, Jack hadn’t said a word, only looking down at the table.
Justin fixed his gaze on Jack, his tone cold. “Tell me, what is it that you’re dissatisfied with?” He sneered. “Robb’s results are the same as mine. He’s better than me in some ways, but we could have at least competed for the top spot. Now, because you’re after his sister, you think you’re entitled to it?”
Roger couldn’t hold back any longer. “What are you talking about? There’s nothing between my sister and Justin!”
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