As days passed, Michael's silent endurance was put to the test. The older boys, determined to force his compliance, began to frame him for various minor infractions. Whenever one of the boys faced punishment from Mr. Thompson or Mr. Harris, Michael found himself bearing the brunt of their revenge. They ensured that he received the same punishments they did, using his supposed faults as a pretext.
Michael remained stoic, accepting the punishments without complaint. He never revealed the truth about the older boys' schemes, even though he was being unfairly punished. His silence was a testament to his resolve, driven by his determination to protect Andrew and maintain his own principles.
One evening, after another round of unjust punishment, Michael was left alone in his room, nursing the pain from the leather strap and the cane. His body was sore, and his spirit was tested. Yet, he kept his head held high, knowing that he had to endure.
The following day, Mr. Thompson and Mr. Harris, who were unaware of the full extent of the boys' manipulation, continued to administer punishments based on the framed accusations. Michael, enduring each punishment in silence, remained a symbol of resilience and selflessness.
In the end, Michael's actions spoke louder than words. His steadfastness and willingness to take the blame for the older boys' wrongdoings earned him a respect that went beyond the surface. Even though he faced harsh consequences, his commitment to protecting Andrew and maintaining his own integrity shone through.
Despite the unfairness and pain, Michael's sacrifices eventually led to a change. The older boys, realizing the limits of their power and the moral strength of Michael, began to reconsider their actions. Though the journey was arduous, Michael's perseverance made a difference, and his silence became a powerful testament to his character.
To be continued
_____________________________Hope you all like it
StarlitHearts