Anna hurried down the hallway, her heart pounding in her chest. She was already late for her first class, and she knew the strict principal, Mr. Thompson, wouldn’t tolerate tardiness. At 19, Anna was a shy, nerdy student who preferred the company of books over people. Her long, mousy hair was always tied back in a messy bun, and her thick glasses made her look even more bookish.

As she approached the principal’s office, Anna could see the door was slightly ajar. She hesitated, wondering if she should knock or sneak past. Before she could decide, the door swung open, and Mr. Thompson stood there, his tall, imposing figure filling the doorway.

“Anna,” he said, his deep voice stern. “I believe you’re late for class.”

Anna gulped, feeling like a mouse cornered by a lion. “I-I’m so sorry, Mr. Thompson. I overslept, and then I couldn’t find my books, and—”

Mr. Thompson held up a hand, silencing her. “No excuses, Anna. You know the rules. Late students must be punished.”

Anna’s heart raced as she followed Mr. Thompson into his office. The room was dimly lit, with heavy wooden furniture and dark curtains. A large, ornate desk dominated the space, and behind it hung a framed portrait of Mr. Thompson in his military uniform.