How did the boys react when melba thanked them for closing the classroom door?

When Melba thanked the boys for closing the classroom door, they reacted with surprise and a sense of camaraderie. They were not accustomed to receiving gratitude, especially in a tense environment, and this gesture seemed to foster a moment of unity among them. Their actions reflected a willingness to support Melba, highlighting the complexities of their relationships in the face of societal pressures.