Jess, ever the quick‑think‑er, slipped the recorder into her pocket, muttering, “We’ll explain later.” The girls followed Ms. Patel out, their faces flushed with embarrassment. 12:45 p.m. – The Office
(raising an eyebrow) “You know the rule—no students in the staff lounge. It’s a safety and privacy thing.”
Before the conversation could go further, the school’s hallway monitor, Ms. Patel, appeared at the doorway, having heard the commotion.
Lena placed the homemade trophy—crafted from a plastic cup, glitter, and a handwritten plaque—on the main table. Priya slipped a sticky‑note‑style thank‑you note under the principal’s coffee mug, and Mia carefully arranged a small tin of chocolate chip cookies on the side counter, leaving a note that read: “From the students who think you’re amazing!”