Although the rumor had cooled down some, there were still some people who believed the rumor. Totally dispelling the rumor wasn't going to be easy. Madison and Connor continued to shield Alexandria from bullies. One day, Connor was unable to come to school, for he was battling a nasty cold. Madison was able to shield Alexandria from bullies, but it wasn't as easy without having Connor as a backup. Madison said, "It was actually terrifying to stand up to those bullies alone." Alexandria said, "I'm sure it was." Madison said, "I haven't had to do that in so long. I miss Connor." Alexandria said, "I miss him, too. I can't wait until he's better." A few days after the incident, Connor said, "I'm sorry I couldn't be there for あなた two." Madison said, "It's okay, Connor. あなた needed to rest and get well." Alexandria said, "That's right. I do hope you're feeling better now." He said, "I am." Pretty soon, Connor was back in school, helping Madison shield Alexandria from bullies.
