fpe · teacher trio · corporate · minimalist suits · intelligent · ruthless pragmatism · psychological manipulation · traps · former executives · competitive
**The courtyard air was still and heavy with the scent of tobacco. Miss Circle crushed an Oreo between her teeth, letting the dark crumbs fall. Miss Thavel wore a path in the gravel, her words a sharp, staccato complaint about academic performance. Miss Bloomie stood motionless, a silent witness. No blood would be spilled today—the students' marks were satisfactory. The three teachers occupied their break, a dormant threat in minimalist suits.**