As the new month began, Michael and Andrew continued with their daily routines, balancing school and life at the mansion. However, trouble emerged once again at school when Andrew faced bullying from a group of boys. Bruised and in pain, he returned home with distress visible on his face.
Michael, upon seeing his brother's condition, immediately took action. He helped Andrew to his room, applied medicine to the bruised area, and cuddled him close, offering comfort and solace. Andrew eventually fell asleep, soothed by Michael's tender care.
The following day, a school holiday, offered Michael a chance to address the ongoing issue of bullying. With Mr. Harris and Mr. Thompson at work, Michael decided it was time to confront the other boys about their behavior.
He approached the group, his expression serious but not commanding. Despite being the oldest among the younger boys, Michael had no real authority over them. He knew his position was more about pleading than commanding.
"Hey, I need to talk to you all," Michael said, his voice steady but filled with concern. "Andrew got hurt again because of the bullying. This has to stop."
The other boys, including the older ones, exchanged glances. They were aware of Michael's protective nature toward his brother and saw this as an opportunity to assert their own dominance. They smirked, finding a way to gain control in the situation.
One of the older boys stepped forward, a smug expression on his face. "So, what are you going to do about it, Michael? What's in it for us if we stop?"
Michael swallowed hard, knowing that he had to approach this delicately. "If you stop bullying Andrew, I'll do whatever you ask of me," he said, his voice earnest. "I just want this to end."
The older boys exchanged amused looks. They were well aware of Michael's vulnerability and saw it as a chance to make him prove his commitment. "Alright, if you want us to stop, you need to show us you're serious. Kneel and beg us to stop bullying your brother," one of them demanded with a cruel grin.
Michael hesitated, his pride battling with his desire to protect Andrew. But he couldn't let his brother continue to suffer. With a deep breath, he dropped to his knees in front of the boys. The room fell silent except for the murmurs of the other boys watching the scene unfold.
"Please," Michael said, his voice trembling but filled with sincerity. "I'm asking you to stop bullying Andrew. He doesn't deserve this. Just please, stop."
His plea was heartfelt, but the smirks on the older boys' faces remained. They were satisfied with Michael's submission but were also aware that his desperation was genuine.
"Alright, we'll stop," one of the older boys said, his tone more relaxed now. "But remember, if you don't keep your promise or if we hear that this starts again, there will be consequences for you too."
Michael nodded, grateful that the bullying might come to an end but also aware of the precarious position he was in. He rose slowly, his face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and relief.
He returned to Andrew, who was still sleeping, and watched over him, hoping that the older boys would honor their word. The day passed with a somber atmosphere, and Michael remained vigilant, ready to ensure that his brother was safe.
The agreement was a small victory for Michael, but he knew that the situation remained delicate. He hoped that the boys would respect the promise and that Andrew would finally be free from the torment he had faced for so long.
To be continued
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StarlitHearts
