He looks for a compromise

You watch as the Dean reads through the three different accounts. You try to maintain a stoic face but you are aware that you overstepped in having the girls use their shirts to clean the wall. Not for the first time in your life you silently curse your impulsive temper, thinking that this time your career may have been ended before it even had a chance to begin.

"Ok, thank-you for taking the time to put your recollections down on paper before we start this process," the Dean says, sending Grace, to join her sister on the couch but gesturing you to remain seated. "Anyone who wants to say anything will get a chance, but from your notes it looks clear that you two," he points at the pair with the rolled up sheets in his hand, "vandalised Mr. Carter's cottage."

"Sir?" Grace raises her hand like she's in a classroom. "I just wanna say that Sally here, really didn't want to do it."

"I'll keep that in mind," he says in a kindly tone, glancing briefly at you.

"OK, anything else?"

"What about Mr. Carter telling us to take off our shirts?" This time it is Sally who speaks. Her voice is even softer and sweeter than her sister's. You know the Dean has turned to look at you, but you just stare at the top of the desk in silence, you pulse hammering in your temple as you wait for him to speak.

"Well yes, I believe there were a number of poor decisions made today. What I'd like to suggest is a way to resolve this situation before it gets blown out of proportion." Your head jerks up in surprise at his words and you notice the sisters exchange hopeful looks. The Dean stands up an holds a book open to the girls, letting them read a section he indicates with his finger. As they read, their hopeful looks are replaced with expressions of dismay.

"Oh no!" Sally starts to tear up again, "Don't call our parents, please."

"Well, if you and Grace agree to the stipulated punishment," the Dean says. "I believe Mr. Carter and I will be willing to drop the matter without further complications."