With Mr. Marshall shut down so hard, the other elders weren't having it.

"Listen here, young man! A little money doesn't make you better than anyone. Show some respect to your elders!"

"You think you know everything? We've been around the block a few more times than you have! Do yourself a favor—apologize to Mr. Marshall and cooperate. Don't make things harder on yourself."

The circle of seniors tightened around Ray, their voices rising in a chorus of disapproval.

Ray locked eyes with one pa