The harsh fluorescent lights of the advanced science laboratory buzzed overhead, casting a sterile glow over the rows of black-topped lab tables. Mr. Harrison, a notoriously strict teacher who took great pleasure in disrupting the social comfort of his students, tapped his marker against the whiteboard to command the room’s attention.
"Listen up," Mr. Harrison announced, his voice cutting through the low murmur of the class. "For the next three weeks, you will be working on a comprehensive molecular biology presentation. And before anyone starts glancing toward their usual cliques, let me make one thing clear: I have already assigned your partners. No exceptions."
A collective groan echoed through the room. Bella sat near the middle row, her fingers tightening around her pen. She instinc
