“We need to talk about Liam's behavior. As of late.”
Both Garrick and Karen sat alongside their son while his principal listed reasons for the boy's expulsion.
Karen, however, couldn't seem to grasp why.
“Can't he express himself?”
The brash professor straightened an obnoxious polka-dot tie.
“O-of course. We, at Wolverhampton, believe in self guidance. But Liam standing atop tables and causing a ruckus is… Well…”
“Demeaning.”
It was Garrick who spoke this time. Not even Headmaster Willen replied; it was as if instant winter hit the stuffy room. Karen attempted to argue but to avail.
“Sweety with all due respect—”
“In which you have none. This isn't your domicile so please shut up.”
Principle Willen cleared his throat awkwardly.
“Mr. Payne, I did not intend to start quarrels–”
“And you haven't. My boy needs to learn etiquette and discipline. He's lived in this ridiculous dream for fame. For stardom. It needs to end now.”
Utterly gobsmacked, the headmaster fell behind his desk once more. Garrick glowered amid Liam's mouth quivering.
“Hoping for attention via singing won't help you. Focus on your studies. Apply for internships… because dragging everyone into something hopeless…”
For a moment it seemed Garrick wanted to cry but eventually steered himself right.
“It'll only sting when we all realize, far too late, that it was merely a cry for help.”
And with that the stern father left the area. Causing everyone to stare in disbelief.
“I'm sorry, Mrs. Payne. I could resend his expulsion. But with a record—”
Karen shook her head bewildered at the lengths some people would go to hurt an innocent student.
“Do it. Won't matter after it's all said and done.”
Tipping her head pointedly, Karen forced Liam out of his seat, whispering:
“Don't you worry: I have a surprise that'll guarantee we'll never return to this stupid school.”
YOU ARE READING
Midnight Memories {A One Direction fanfic}
FanfictionLiam Payne has had a trying life full of school drama and a controlling father, but all he wants is one thing: to become a singer that could inspire millions. Though his mother remains hopeful and supportive he can't help but doubt himself; with so...
