James dared to speak in such a way because he felt that Nathan's call was a bluff.
Also, he was well connected to the leadership of Alberesque, and hence, the mayor would still have to be respectful to him.
However, what he didn't expect was that the moment he finished, an angry voice boomed from behind. "James Miller, what makes you think that even I can't put you in your place?"
Shocked, James snapped his head in the direction of the voice.
He then saw the mayor, the director of education, the head of the disciplinary board, and the chief of the police investigation unit. Behind the group of leaders were an even larger group of subordinates.
Startled, James responded with a trembling voice, "Mis-mis-Mr. Crow, you're all here!"
Russell had an angry expression on. "No, no, no, I'm not the mayor, you are. I think Channing has become your own backyard given how much impunity you are acting with."
Meanwhile, James was trembling vigorously and sweating buckets. His words started to sound like a mumble. "Mr. Crow, I admit my words were out of line. I was just infuriated by this young man, and hence spoke without thinking."
"Mr. Crow, please don't take what I said seriously."
Russell sternly retorted, "Out of line?"
"I have long heard reports of you overstepping the authority of the director of education and abusing your position for your own personal gain."
"Initially, I thought that the reports exaggerated your behavior but you have shown me the truth."
Turning pale, James replied in defiance, "This is slander. I have never abused my position for personal gain. I'm sure you can judge for yourself!"
When Russell saw that James was still trying to worm his way out, he admonished him, "Haven't you? Why don't you explain to me what happened to the poetry contest?"
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