“For minor misdeeds, you’ll pray the rosary. Other penances may include an early curfew, manual labor, or social isolation.” His low, velvety baritone was a taunt in my ears. “In extreme cases, corporal punishment is employed.” “That’s…” My mouth dried. “You mean abuse?” “Physical pain and psychological humiliation.” “Oh my God.” I wasn’t aware of my feet moving backward until I bumped into my mother. “You hit your students? Like…with a paddle? A yardstick?” “Strap and cane.” “What?” I froze, certain I hadn’t heard him correctly. “It’s not a common practice at Sion Academy, but sometimes, a
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