Vote for Diya

[Roach Copeland]

Herrera crossed his arms over his chest as he stared at the boy a crossed from him. Roach Copeland just sat there, hands resting on top of his lap as he met the man's gaze. The both remained silent for a moment, neither of them losing this battle of 'wits', before Herrera finally sighed. He stepped around the desk, leaned against its edge, and looked at Roach.

"You wrote on the computer screens of the Library with permanent marker," he started.

"Allegedly."

"We do have security, Roach. We do know what happens in the school and when."

Roach feigned a gasp of surprise before pointing accusingly at Herrera. "That's Big Brother tactics".

Herrera pinched the bridge of his nose and let out a breath. "Why did you write Diya's name on the screen?"

Roach pulled out a sharpie, playing with the writing tool for a moment before shrugging. "I didn't like the names on the homecoming list presented to me. So, I decided it was the only way to do a write in vote-"

"You'll be spending Saturdays in detention, Roach," Herrera cut him off. The headmaster watched Roach's neutral gaze as the boy tried his best to hide that rebellious spark. A moment ticked by before Herrera continued. "And you'll also be assisting Mister Deathrage with his duties until I feel that you've shown that you understand what you did was wrong."

"Does my vote count?" Roach asked with a grin.

"No activities outside of the school either."

Roach closed his mouth, chewing at his inner cheek before finally just looking away. Herrera remained silent for a moment before finally just shaking his head. He turned away from the boy, deciding a better view was of his bookshelf behind his desk.

"Can I go now-"

"Thomas. You busted your rear to make Senior this year. You clock more hours in patrolling then most of the students here. You've even avoided incidences like these for the last few months". Herrera took in a breath before just shoving his hands into his pant's pocket. He turned, looking at Roach before frowning. "And now it seems like you want to return to how it was before. When we first met."

Roach remained silent, now looking at his hands before finally just rolling his shoulders. Herrera turned his gaze on the boy, studying him before saying, "Another incident like this will end poorly for you, Thomas. And it would be a waste of talent."