Marcus inhaled deeply, forcing himself to stay composed as emotions churned inside him. He knew this confrontation went far beyond a dented Lamborghini—it spoke to patterns he had endured his whole life: bias, avoidance of accountability, and the unequal weight of consequences.
“Karen, let me be very clear,” Marcus began, his voice steady but edged with resolve. “This isn’t just about a car or a neighborhood squabble. This is about responsibility. Your son made a choice, and choices have consequences.”
Karen’s jaw tightened, a flicker of irritation flashing across her face. “Marcus, I get that you’re angry,” she replied quickly, “but think about Tyler’s future. A police report could destroy his chances of college. Do we really need to drag the authorities into this? Can’t we just resolve it privately?”