CHAPTER 39: YOUR BROTHER'S KEEPER

 Mark and Jake finally returned to school. They were absent from school for a while after the not-so-little incident at the boys' restroom with Matthew and Co.

 As they walked into their class, Mrs Clark stopped them and asked them, "You two, why are you late to my class? And why have you been absent from school for some time now."

 Then Mark responded, "We had to go to the school's clinic last week because I had a nasty headache, while Jake tripped and got blood all over his head. Then we were hospitalized for a few days. And that, Mrs Clark, was why we've been absent from school."

 "That is such an elaborate reply," Mrs Clark said surprisingly. "You may have your seats, and do accept my apologies, sincerely." She added.

 As they went to have their seats, Jeremy shook hands with them while Jesse stared at them suspiciously until they got to their seats.

 "Before I continue, has anyone heard any word from Elliott and his friends?" Mrs Clark asked.