Keen stared at her in disbelief. "But you haven't even asked what happened!"
Stella replied, "Isn't it the same with you guys? You never ask what happened either. You just assume it's my fault, right? Besides..."
She glanced gently at Marvin. "I trust Marvin. He would never hit someone without a reason."
Lately, she'd been looking after Marvin at home. Marvin was such a smart kid, wise beyond his years, which made her heart ache a little.
Unlike Keen, who would rush off with just a brief farewell after dinner, Marvin always lingered—helping to clear the table and gather the dishes. During meals, he'd offer her food from the dish, always complimenting her cooking, savoring every bite with a satisfied smile.
Keen, on the other hand, was always critical.
Stella's thoughts were interrupted by Marvin's voice.
"Stella, I was wrong in this matter. No matter what Keen said, I shouldn't have hit him... I'm willing to apologize."
Stella looked down at Marvin. "Are you really willing to apologize to him?"
Marvin nodded, saying, "I am."
Her expression softened. "Alright, then go ahead and apologize."
Marvin walked over to Keen. "Keen, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have hit you."
Even though Keen came from a well-disciplined family, he was still just a kid, and Marvin had been under his skin for days. He turned his face away with a huff, unwilling to forgive.
Marvin looked a bit lost, instinctively glancing back at Stella. She waved him over with an encouraging smile. "Whether he forgives you or not is one thing. Knowing you did wrong and being willing to apologize is another. Marvin, taking responsibility is what makes a man."
Hearing her praise, Marvin's eyes sparkled.
The kindergarten teachers, observing this scene, finally caught on.
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