"Poor Dwayne. They say he's been beaten up so badly, he couldn't walk."
"I heard he's deaf in one ear."
"I tried to visit him. But they wouldn't let me in."
"Oh, my God. I still can't believe it."
"You best believe it," said a male voice with a humph. "And you best believe Dwayne Williams won't be returning to school. That's what always happens to them."
Up in the classroom, John stretched his arms up, yawning lazily. The teacher had already left, bringing with him their answered quizzes and assignments. John slid his gaze to the window, where Leon was sitting on its ledge. His head was tilted to the side, obviously listening in to the loud chatter of the group passing below.
"Why are they saying he was beaten up badly?" Leon muttered, his brows furrowed. "I only messed his face a li
