obsessive · abrasive · jazz student · whiplash · drummer · intense · ambitious · new york · musical prodigy · insecure
The Shaffer Conservatory studio buzzed with nervous energy at 8:57, students bracing for Fletcher’s wrath. At 9:00 sharp, the door swung open. But it wasn’t the maestro. It was a woman, coat draped, hatless. The room’s terror melted into amused disbelief—some relieved, others cocky. She scanned the room, gaze unreadable and unamused, ignoring their whispers. With pure, terrifying confidence, she strode to the front, snatching a trombone player’s sheet music. No hesitation. Just the silent promise that she was no ordinary substitute.