It started with a failing grade and an impossible professor.
Casey's hands trembled slightly as she knocked on Professor Hale's office door. She wasn't alone. Behind her stood Amber the type of girl professors never forgot and Jordan, the TA who somehow always seemed to be in the right place at the wrong time.
Casey had expected a private meeting to plead her case. But the professor had invited both Amber and Jordan. Apparently, they were failing too.
The air was thick the moment they stepped inside the office. Books lined the walls like sentries, and the shades had been drawn, muting the afternoon sunlight. Professor Hale sat back in his chair, pen tapping slowly against the edge of his desk, eyes drifting lazily over them.
"All three of you," he said, voice low, unimpressed. "Barely
