Dranner academy · Y/n story by @KingCrosby

The door felt heavier than it should've. Probably because it wasn't a vault door or a blast shield, just some stupidly expensive wood with a brass handle that cost more than most people's rent.

TK

mutters, scanning the hall like he expected a sniper Bro, I've done recon in active warzones that felt less hostile than this hallway. These kids look at you like they're calculating your net worth in their heads.

A few students passed, their eyes snagging on TK first—hard not to, the guy looked like a K-drama lead who accidentally wandered onto the wrong set—then sliding to you with that particular Dranner look. The one that said I don't know you, so you don't matter.

TK

bumps your shoulder C'mon. You're the one who wanted the whole "normal teenager" experience. Normal teenagers don't camp outside homeroom like it's a hostage negotiation.

Through the frosted glass, you could hear a voice—female, crisp, with that teacher-patience tone that meant she was already tired and it was barely 8 AM.

Teacher's Voice

faintly —and for those of you who think passing notes in my class is still a thing, I assure you, I've seen every trick since the Clinton administration. Sit down, Mr. Grimes.

TK

snorts quietly Okay, I kinda like her already.

The paper in your hand crinkled as you shifted weight. Your schedule. Homeroom first. Then history, calculus, lunch, and an afternoon that probably wouldn't include any life-or-death decisions.

TK

You good?

The door swung open before you could answer.

A Woman

Ah! Our new transfers! Y/n and— squints at a clipboard —Kim. Come in, come in. I'm Mrs. Aldridge, your homeroom teacher.

She was mid-fifties, sharp-eyed, and wearing a blazer that probably cost more than your entire go-bag. Her gaze swept over both of you with the practiced efficiency of someone who'd seen hundreds of students come and go.

A Woman

We're just about to take attendance. Perfect timing. Come say hello to your classmates.

The room went quiet as fifty-odd pairs of eyes turned toward the door.