Side Chick Era... Over

Loving Mom 349

Chapter 349

Renee couldn’t hold it in anymore. She broke down, crying loudly.

Nate had been sure that a little kid like Matty wouldn’t be able to handle being bullied and isolated for long. A few days, tops, before the pressure would force him to distance himself from Sharon. (2)

But to his surprise, Matty seemed completely unfazed by the cold shoulders and sidelong glances. He went about his day as usual -eating when he should, drinking when he should, studying just as seriously as ever, still scoring at the top of the class.

Theo didn’t fully understand what had happened-why the entire kindergarten suddenly decided not to talk to Matty overnight.

But watching Matty walk around like nothing had changed… it was disappointing.

He’d been hoping to see that “bad kid” squirm. Maybe cry a little. Maybe finally show some fear.

Instead, all it did was make Theo more confused.

What kind of kid was this?

He couldn’t help but ask, “Hey, bad kid. Doesn’t it bother you? Everyone ignoring you, not playing with you. Aren’t you sad? Don’t you feel bad?”

Matty was packing up his books, getting ready to head home. Without even looking up, he answered flatly, “No. I came here to learn, not to make friends.” 1

his

him, refusing to give up. “Quit pretending! You must be scared. You must be

and looked him dead

anything to me. Why would I feel bad over people

hanging around me, bothering me with questions or pointless chatter. I don’t

was no one else around. Matty

Theo?” he added, voice light but sharp. “I should thank you. You

can focus on the things I

me? What’s this got to do with

amusement and mockery. “You say I’m the one pretending …but aren’t you

frowned, completely confused.

it? He’s the one who told all the teachers

Theo snapped. “I never

liked watching Matty get left out. But he’d never asked

involved in kid stuff.

you want.” Matty’s voice was casual. “But the whole kindergarten knows.

1/2

Chapter 349