The boy pulled his shorts and pull-ups back up, his crying having calmed to the occasional sob and sniffle. He rubbed his bottom without hesitation then. Then, he shuffled back over to the headmaster, head down, awaiting whatever command came next. He hoped, maybe, for a hug of some sort.

The headmaster didn't disappoint him as he pulled him up to his chest and hugged him for a moment. "Now go to your next class", he ordered friendly.

"Yes sir," Michael said, drying his tears. He was at his next class, notably late of course, but with the office not. He came in and took his seat next to his friend...

His friend looked at him. "So what happened? Did you get expelled?", he whispered.

"Would I be sitting here?" Michael asked, a little sharply. His bottom stung as he sat down.

"Calm down you dummy, you had the stupid idea, not me", his friend replied.