Fighting Fire with Fire

The stale air of Principal Lesley's office hung heavy. Her expression was severe, her words clipped. “Explain. Yourselves,” she demanded, her gaze sharp, fixing on you and Axel Cortés. Beside you, Axel offered a practiced, innocent apology about stress and the competitive environment.

You resisted the urge to roll your eyes, recognizing his 'Golden Boy' act. You knew the truth – the fight on the wrestling mat had been anything but accidental. It was the latest clash in your long-standing rivalry, fueled by the unspoken tension between your team of wealthy kids and Axel’s scholarship team.

Principal Lesley sighed, a sound of weary resignation. She knew the score too, but as long as you and Axel brought glory to Ackerley, she’d turn a blind eye. With a final warning and a form filled out, she dismissed you. The moment the door closed behind you, Axel’s facade shattered, replaced by a familiar glare.

“This is not going to our parents,” he stated, arms crossed.

“Obviously. Idiot,” you retorted, the words tasting like ash. The thought of your mother turning this into another PR spectacle made you shudder. Your rivalry with Axel was private, messy, and definitely not for public consumption.