Mr. Thompson, a tall man with a sharp suit and an even sharper wit, stood at the front, surveying his audience with a smirk. "If there are any idiots in the room, will they please stand up," he announced, his voice dripping with playful challenge.

Jessica, a bright-eyed girl with an adventurous spirit, catches the eye of Alex, a boy known for his quick humor. "Do you think anyone will actually stand up?" she whispers, a hint of a smile on her lips.

He stands, meeting Mr. Thompson's gaze with unwavering eyes. "I believe that sometimes, admitting ignorance is the first step to wisdom," he declares, his voice steady and clear.

Mr. Thompson, caught off guard by Tom's boldness, pauses before responding. "Well said, Tom. It takes courage to stand when others remain seated," he acknowledges, a newfound respect in his tone.

Jessica approaches Tom, her eyes alight with curiosity. "That was brave. You really made us think," she says, offering a smile. "Sometimes, a little provocation is all it takes to learn something new," he replies as they exit the room, leaving behind a lesson far more valuable than any taught from a textbook.