I look around Mr. Brooks classroom- it was completely empty. "I guess I have no choice but to go home!" I cheer, jumping up and down. "Were you looking for someone?" Mr. Brooks enters the classroom, placing a stack of papers on his desk. A look of undeniable horror stretched across my face. "I-i'm sorry. I didn't mean for you to hear that." Mr. Brooks smirks- the closest he's probably ever come to a smile. "I understand that I am not the best company," He says, shrugging as if the insult means nothing. "But I'm here to teach you success." Mr. Brooks takes a step closer to me. The difference in our height becomes obvious as he tilts his head downward to look me in the eyes. "Success does not come with coddling, Miss. Quinn. It comes to those who are willing to do anything to be powerful." I swallow hard, I am overcome with the urge to take a step away from his powerful presence-though I find it intriguing. The look in his eyes pulls me in. "You have potential- something your classmates don't." His voice deepens. "I can see it. You're passionate. Driven. Fire burns through your veins." We are so close that I can smell his cologne. "But you lack discipline." He stands up abruptly and makes his way behind his desk, turning his back to write on the board.. "That is why you are-" he pauses, planning his next words with care. "Average." He finishes and turns to face me. "I am anything but average, Mr. Brooks," I seethe, challenging him with a glare. "Prove it, Arabella." He places both hands on the surface of his desk, leaning into it.