A Little Understanding

They paused to see who spoke.

Layne Carter strolled toward them. When Pratte and Harris saw her, they laughed.

"You better stay out of this, little girl," Lawrence said. "I already owe you one for ratting us out."

"You don't owe anyone anything except an apology. Leave him alone."

"You going to make me?"

"Not me." She put her fingers to her mouth and whistled. Eight kids jumped off the benches and rushed forward. They stood at Layne's side.

"I suggest you move on, Lawrence," Jesse said.

"Get your hands off him."

Pratte and Harris hesitated.

"Now!"

Several of the kids stepped forward. Harris and Pratte backed away. They and Lawrence stared, not quite believing what was happening.

"I've been talking to these kids," Jesse said. "It seems like we all have one thing in common, something I can really understand. At one time or another, you three have tormented each and every one of us."

"So?" Lawrence said.

"So it's not going to happen again. Back away, boys. If I give the word, all ten of us will be on top of you. There won't be much left when we get finished with you."

"You're a bunch of sissies."

"Are you willing to take that risk?" Jesse took a step toward him. Lawrence stepped back.

"You can't tell us what to do," Lawrence said. "Isn't that right?" He looked at Harris and Pratte. They looked at each other.