The system advanced from observation to stress testing.
Not initiated by her.
Not initiated by Derek.
External.
The school called again.
Not routine.
Not informational.
Concern.
“There was an incident,” the administrator said.
Controlled tone.
But different.
“What kind of incident?” she asked.
“Another parent reported a conversation Derek had during pickup.”
Indirect channel.
Public environment.
“What did he say?”
