Chapter 36 Apology
The office door suddenly flung open, and Ronan stormed in like a whirlwind, his sharp gaze resembling a predator ready to strike. His presence was electric, instantly cutting through the oppressive atmosphere. Sadie felt an unexpected surge of warmth as Ronan stepped forward, standing protectively in front of her like a guardian angel.
"How could you do this to her?" Ronan's voice was deep and authoritative, addressing Todd directly, his eyes blazing with anger. He glanced at the wounds on Sadie's hands, and an uncontrollable rage surged within him. "Who gave you the guts to lay a hand on her?"
Todd stared in shock, trembling with fear. He stammered, "Mr. Potter, I was just... just trying to manage the school."
"Manage? This is bullying!" Ronan sneered, his tone cold and disdainful. "Mr. Bailey, I've seen the surveillance footage. Indeed, my son was in the wrong."
"Yes, yes, yes," Todd mumbled, completely disoriented and nodding along with whatever Ronan said.
Sadie's heart was in turmoil. Seeing Ronan so angry stirred complex emotions within her. But she reminded herself that Ronan was married to Leah, and they had a son together. Forcing herself to keep a distance, she gently pushed Ronan away.
Ronan frowned slightly, understanding Sadie's reluctance yet unsure of what to say. He had never expected their reunion to be like this, and now she had three children. Although he appeared calm on the surface, his hand clenched involuntarily behind his back.
Noah and Nathan, standing nearby, saw Sadie surrounded and stepped forward bravely like two little lions, eyeing Ronan warily, clenching their fists, ready to protect her.
"You can't hurt our mommy!" Nathan shouted, his voice filled with determination.
Mia, huddled in the corner, looked terrified, clutching Brenda's hand tightly. "Mommy, are you hurt?" she asked in a low voice.
Sadie's heart tightened. She turned, trying to stay calm. "It's okay, Mia. I'm fine," she said gently, though her voice carried a hint of unease she couldn't hide.
Ronan gazed deeply at Sadie, his eyes revealing complex emotions as if he were trying to resolve something in his mind. He sighed softly before walking over to Mia. Crouching down to her level, he gently asked, "Mia, did Billy smear paint on your hair?"
"Yes." Mia pouted, launching into an animated explanation of what had happened.
"I understand." Ronan turned to the three children, his voice sincere. "On behalf of Billy, I apologize to you three and your mother."
Todd stood by, dumbfounded, unable to comprehend why Ronan was so supportive of Sadie. Sarah's expression mirrored his confusion. Brenda, however, looked relieved. Although Ronan and Sadie didn't end up together, it was clear Ronan's character hadn't changed—he was still kind and reasonable.
Noah looked at Ronan, then at Sadie, confused. Tugging on Sadie's sleeve, he whispered, "Mommy, should we forgive Billy's dad?"
Sadie was about to speak when Ronan added, "When we get home tonight, I will properly punish Billy and discuss with Leah so she can personally come to the school and apologize to you all."
Todd was completely bewildered. He wondered, 'Could Sadie's status be higher than the Ronan's? Or are these three children Ronan's illegitimate kids?' The confusion was evident on his face, but Ronan wasn't done.
Turning to Todd, Ronan's voice was icy, merciless. "Mr. Bailey, I've informed the school board to have you dismissed. You'd better sincerely apologize to them and leave quietly, or I won't spare you."