Chapter 401

There was a seriousness in Hayden's eyes. He felt his heart skip a beat as he pressed his lips together. Had he handled this situation poorly, too? "Hayden, let's head home first," James said calmly. He chose not to continue the discussion there, wanting to show Hayden some respect. Before long, the family was back home, and they gathered on the couch around the coffee table. Hayden and Jenny sat up straight, looking obediently at James and Serena. "First of all, as an older brother, I understand your instinct to protect Jenny," James began. James' tone remained steady as he continued, "To anyone watching, your decision might seem right. But from our perspective, it's a different matter." "Was I... wrong?" Hayden asked, his voice cautious. "This isn't about right or wrong," James replied. "Huh?" Hayden blinked in confusion, clearly puzzled. "You're about to be an adult, and you'll be heading to college soon. You'll eventually face smaller social circles. I can't give you all the answers, but there are some truths I want to share. Do you know why that person chose to secretly record you?" James asked. "I... really don't know," Hayden answered with an awkward smile, feeling a bit helpless. He didn't know who had filmed them, so how could he possibly understand their motives? At the time, he'd suspected that the person might be connected to Morgan, but without evidence, he couldn't be sure. "Every criminal has their own deeply painful history," James said. "Often, these reasons are beyond what we can predict or imagine. That's what drives them to commit acts that go against basic morality. "Some even go on to do much worse—assaults, murder, and the list goes on. People like this have long discarded their morals and conscience. Any attempt to reason with them is pointless. "Now, think about it. What if that person had been filled with anger and was armed with a knife, ready to attack you or your sister or a friend? What if they'd been waiting for you to let your guard down and then struck with deadly force? Could you have stopped them? "That's why I want you to understand that you must prioritize your safety in such situations. Take your sister and your friends away, and leave those people behind. This is what every parent hopes for—to see their children safe and healthy. "Criminals are miserable, so they break the law. But you're fortunate. So, you shouldn't waste your time arguing with them. This isn't cowardice—it's wisdom!" James' tone was firm as he locked eyes with Hayden. His heartfelt words moved both Hayden and Jenny deeply. A warm feeling spread through Hayden. He agreed with James' perspective. "Alright. I understand. I get it now, Dad." Hayden nodded earnestly. "From now on, I'll always put safety first!" Jenny immediately nodded in agreement, making the same promise. Both of them seemed genuinely committed. "Good!" James nodded in approval. "Now, let's talk about you." Serena turned her attention to Jenny. "You're still so young, but you're already getting into conflicts. Do you think that's appropriate? "Starting tomorrow, I want you to reflect on your actions and focus on your studies. Stop causing trouble outside!" Serena's voice was stern and authoritative.