Chapter 59 - Contribution to Society (1/2)

Professor Zhao leapt on his words. “That’s right. She should compensate them. A hundred yuan should do it, as long as she apologizes, too.”

“That’s too much,” Niu Caijie spat.

“Fine. Then I guess you’ll just be expelled,” Xie Qingqing sneered.

Niu Caijie might have lunged at Xie Qingqing and torn her eyes out, if Tang Qiu’s voice hadn’t stopped her in her tracks. “You demanded the same from us earlier,” she said. “Consider this us returning the favor. Don’t bother crying–just take it as your meager contribution to society.”

This time, Niu Caijie’s tears were born of rage. She couldn’t bear to part with her money–but neither could she afford to be expelled. She had no choice but to take out her phone and transfer the designated sum to them. To everyone’s surprise, Xie Qingqing immediately gave the money to Principal Pang, requesting that it be used as a donation to the school. He praised her, and even gave her additional credits.

Fury stole Niu Caijie’s breath. With hatred pouring from her heart, she turned to leave, but He Lei blocked her way. “You’ve already taken my money,” she hissed. “What more do you want?”

“You owe them an apology. Money alone can’t compensate for your actions. This is an educational institution–morals and character are what matter. Wouldn’t you agree, Professor Zhao?”

The professor had been trying to fade into the background. He nodded awkwardly.

“Wise sentiments for someone who accused Tang Qiu of being at fault without clearly investigating the incident.”

Professor Zhao had been tricked–manipulated–by Niu Caijie. Indignation swelled in his chest, spilling into fury. But his pride wouldn’t let him admit to a student that he had been wrong, so he ordered, “Apologize now, Niu Caijie.”

.

“Monetary compensation isn’t enough,” the principal added. “As our student, we want you to learn from your mistakes.”

Helpless to retort, Niu Caijie was about to grit out an apology when again, Tang Qiu spoke over her. “That reminds me: you were supposed to write me an apology letter. You can add this to your list of wrongdoings. The principal and professor can bear witness; if I don’t receive that letter, you’ll be punished. Isn’t that right, Professor Zhao?”

Professor Zhao nodded; he knew he deserved to shoulder some of the blame. “Do as she says, Niu Caijie. Remember, we still have the authority to expel you.”