Deal with the Aftermath

It’s the third time you’ve recounted what happened, first to security, then to management, then to more senior management. Each time they nod and thank you and only believe you because the victims are backing you up.

Finally, one of the senior management turns to the three men, all looking sheepish, the two assaulted still looking the worse for wear.

“Come on you three. Your membership is suspended. We’ll get your gear and then you’re out of here.”

You’re confused. “Aren’t you calling the police?”

“No, no point. They’re from the Altobello Estate. I’ll tell Mr Altobello. He’ll deal with them.”

What?

“Ah, in that case,” Layla interjects. “When you report it to Mr Altobello, tell him we’re from St Perpetua’s.” She then turns to them with a savage smile. “I guess your bad decision just got worse.”

Then the three men are escorted away. Meanwhile the most senior manager present turns to the women.

“I’m sorry this happened. The town council recently agreed those on the Altobello Estate can use the centre, as long as they behaved. I guess these guys didn’t get the behave message. I’m sure they will now. We’ll have someone keep an eye on you, if you want to carry on.”

Anissa shakes her head. She’s paler than you’ve seen her, and Spencer is also shook up. “We’ll get changed and leave,” Blair states.

He shrugs and leaves. Leaving you very confused.

“I don’t understand,” you continue.

Krystal fills you in. “They’re from the Altobello Estate, whatever Mr Altobello does to them will be worse than what the police could do.”

“The Altobello Estate?” You’ve never heard of that.

“That’s not really its name. It’s the couple of streets to the north of town. When Mr Altobello moved in, he bought every house in them to house his people. Everyone just calls it the Altobello Estate now.”

“When he bought the houses, he promised the Town Council they’d behave,” Layla throws in.

“Yere, no nasty behaviour,” Krystal chuckles. “Although I’ve had a few of them get nasty, in a good way.” She winks at you.

“Altobello?” That name rings a bell. “Why have I heard that name?”

“His eldest daughter is one of your students, Upper Sixth ‘C’ Stream,” Layla chimes in.

Yes, you remember the girl. Melanie Altobello. She’s the one everyone says is Ellie’s chief tormentor.