Sharon’s POV

"I'll be expecting your answer soon," the principal said, his tone flat, yet final. There was no room for negotiation in his voice.

Sitting rigidly beside me, Douglas shifted forward slightly, his jaw tight. “Sir, you must reconsider,” he began, his voice calm but firm. “You can’t just ask us to choose between—”

The principal raised a hand, silencing Douglas instantly. “Mr. Douglas, I respect you,” he said, ...