The power of rumors and the concept of public shame is something that is one of the scariest things in this world.
Especially for those people who can't live without the confirmation of others.
We, humans, are natural beings with social needs, and almost everyone does have a certain need for reactions and communication. This is especially more severe for those who are going through their puberty stage, where they seek attention.
Why do you think high-schooler bullying cases are a lot more severe than others? Because the way attention blinds people is amazing.
And this is where the public shame comes into the equation.
"Senior," I began, using the title to taunt him, "if you talk about why you were trying to sabotage the club, I may consider extinguishing these fires…"
Jonas hesitated for a moment, his eyes darting around the room as if searching for a way out. But there was no escape from the blazing inferno that engulfed him.
"…."