Everyone needs to see what Hartwell is protecting. Aaliyah kept walking. She wouldn't give him the reaction he wanted. Look at her. Grayson continued, his voice rising, walking around like she owns this place, like she didn't attack four students without warning.
More students stopped to watch. Some pulled out their phones. "You're all in danger around her," Grayson shouted. "She's got a black belt. She's trained to hurt people." and the university is letting her stay on campus.
Cody stepped forward, emboldened by Grayson's performance. Maybe she needs another reminder about who really belongs here. He kicked hard at Aaliyah's backpack as she climbed the steps. The bag flew from her shoulder and tumbled down the concrete stairs, spilling books and papers across the walkway. Students gasped.
Several backed away, expecting another fight. Aaliyah stopped. She turned slowly to look at Cody, who stood grinning with his arms crossed. Her hands remained at her sides. Her breathing stayed calm.
Every instinct from years of training told her to stay controlled. "Pick it up," Cody said loud enough for everyone to hear. "Pick up your stuff and show everyone what happens when scholarship kids forget their place." Aaliyah stepped aside instead. "Hey, Aaliyah." Nia's voice came from the upper walkway. She stood with her phone raised, recording everything.
I got all of that. The kick, the threats, everything. You're recording illegally, Tessa snapped. Public walkway, Nia replied calmly. Perfectly legal.
Within moments, Marcus appeared at Aaliyah's side, moving faster than she'd ever seen him. His calm instructor demeanor was gone, replaced by barely controlled anger. Campus security, he said into his phone. I need officers at the brick academic building immediately. We have a no contact order violation and witnessed harassment.
Grayson's confident expression faltered. We're not within 50 ft. Check the distance. Your friend just kicked her property, Marcus replied coldly. That's engagement.
That's harassment. That's violation. Two campus security officers arrived within minutes. Marcus pointed to the scattered books and papers, then to Nia's phone. Everything is recorded.
Deliberate provocation. Attempted intimidation. As the officers approached, Cody's anger finally erupted. But not at Aaliyah. This is your fault, he shouted at Grayson.