‘Online games have far more traps than the types of computer games available when we were younger,’ she continued. ‘In fact, the World Health Organization has recently recognised gaming disorder as an actual disease. A gaming addiction is no joke and can lead to other serious addiction problems, not to mention social ones. Now, I’m not saying Saxon has this disorder, but spending too much time online gaming could also account for his—’

I’d heard enough. So Saxon was in the wrong, and perhaps thanks to our separation had spent more time online than he should, but the school needed to accept some responsibility.

‘If you know of these dangers,’ I interrupted, hearing the venom in my own voice, ‘then can you please explain to me the school’s reasoning in handing out an assignment that required students to actually play and analyse an R-rated game? Until Saxon had to do this for media, he’d never shown the slightest interest in The Tournament.’

The principal’s eyes widened as she looked uncertainly at Sax, then back to me. ‘I’m not sure I know what you’re talking about. As far as I know Year 9 media focuses on short film, music videos and advertising, but I’ll certainly check in with the teacher about that.’

The penny dropped. My face burned as I slowly turned to look at Saxon. ‘You lied about the assignment?’

‘You’ve always been such a screen Nazi you wouldn’t have let me play if I told you the truth. And everyone’s playing it!’

My heart squeezed at the resentment in his tone. What had happened to my sweet little boy?

Adrian shook his head at Sax and then turned his most charming smile on the principal. ‘I’m sorry, Vera, this situation has clearly gotten out of hand, but I can assure you that now Ashling and I know what’s going on, this Tournament thing will no longer be an issue.’

‘That’s good to hear,’ she replied. ‘I’m sure you’ll both understand the need to suspend Saxon for a week over this, but his violent outburst isn’t the only reason I wanted to speak to you. What’s come to light today, however, might explain a few other things as well.’

What on earth was she talking about? Did all teachers speak so cryptically? Reining in my anger and irritation—and the need to blame someone other than myself—I asked, ‘I’m sorry, what other things?’

‘Saxon’s decline in grades and his less than enthusiastic attitude towards his schooling. A number of his teachers have raised concerns with me recently that his homework isn’t always completed and his grades are no longer what they should be.’

‘What?’ I felt as if I’d been the one punched. ‘How bad are they?’

‘Some of his classes he’s barely passing.’