By dismissal, the rumor had spread across the school: Ms. Whitman shaved Courtney’s head.

Denise Johnson was already waiting outside. She smiled when she saw her daughter—then her expression changed instantly when she noticed the hood and the tears. She gently lifted the hood.

Her breath caught. “Oh my God… Courtney.”

Courtney broke.

“Mom… she made me… in front of everyone…”

Denise didn’t need another word. She took her daughter’s hand. “We’re going inside.”

The front office fell silent when Denise entered. “I want the principal,” she demanded, voice steady but blazing with anger.

Principal Harris stepped out. “Mrs. Johnson, how can I—”