In your arms

Chapter 9: Save Me!

Sylvester Anderson was a man of few words, but his presence spoke volumes. As the school dean, he was both feared and respected, a figure who embodied discipline and authority. Under his leadership, the school had achieved multiple awards for excellence, a testament to his unwavering commitment and high standards. Anderson was intensely protective of the school's reputation, preferring to address issues swiftly and decisively before they could escalate.

His demeanor was no-nonsense, and he tolerated nothing less than excellence from both staff and students. Beneath his stern exterior lay a deep care for the institution and those within it. Every decision he made was in the school's best interest, ensuring its legacy and reputation remained untarnished.

The classroom door slid open, and June and Ako stood side by side, their faces drawn with anxiety.

"G-good morning, sir, Mr. Anderson," June stammered, her words stumbling out. "You look well, sir. Did you do something different with your hair? New cologne, maybe? Or do you just—?"

Mr. Anderson's gruff voice cut through June's nervous chatter like a blade. "Good morning, Ms. Pena. Does this situation concern you?"

"N-no, sir, it doesn't," June replied, her initial bravado crumbling under his unyielding gaze.

"Then it's best you attend to your class. You have exactly," Mr. Anderson paused to check his watch, "seven minutes to make it. Or would you prefer to demonstrate to your students that tardiness is acceptable?"

June's face flushed as she nodded, her confidence evaporating. "No, sir, Mr. Anderson. I'll be on my way." She fumbled with her belongings, hurrying past him as he stepped aside.

Now alone with the imposing dean, Ako clutched her teaching materials tightly to her chest, as if they could shield her from the weight of his presence. Mr. Anderson's voice, firm and steady, filled the room. "Ms. Tanaka, I've arranged for another teacher to cover your class while we address this... situation."

Ako nodded, her voice barely audible. "Y-yes, sir. Thank you."

"Follow me. We need to talk," Mr. Anderson instructed, his tone leaving no room for hesitation.

"Y-yes, sir," Ako replied, falling into step behind him, careful to keep a nervous distance as they walked.

As they traversed the hallways, Ako felt the weight of curious stares from students and faculty alike. It was as if she'd been branded a criminal, paraded before the masses for her transgressions. The scrutiny was palpable, tightening around her like an invisible noose, each glance a silent accusation.

Sensing the growing tension, Mr. Anderson halted abruptly. His booming voice echoed through the corridor, "Yes, is there something any of you wish to say?"

The gathered crowd scattered like startled cockroaches, the sound of shuffling feet and whispered apologies filling the air before silence descended. Alone in the suddenly empty hallway, Ako's pulse thrummed in her ears, the sensation of being watched lingering even as the onlookers disappeared. They resumed their journey to Mr. Anderson's office, the click of their footsteps echoing ominously in the stillness, each step bringing Ako closer to an uncertain fate.

The atmosphere shifted as they entered the dean's office. The space felt oppressive, the walls lined with plaques and certificates seeming to close in on her, a silent reminder of the standards she feared she had failed to uphold. Ako's breath hitched as she crossed the threshold, her chest tightening with a sense of impending doom.

"Have a seat, Akomine," Mr. Anderson instructed, his voice carrying the gravity of authority.

Ako complied, sinking into the chair with a nervous flutter in her chest. She placed her teaching materials on her lap, her hands trembling as she struggled to steady them. Mr. Anderson settled into his chair across from her, his stern gaze fixed on her, piercing through the fragile calm she tried to maintain.