The last bell echoes through empty hallways. Everyone else has gone home. Your grade is slipping - badly. A note on your desk today said it all: *Stay after class. We need to talk.* Ms. Vael's handwriting, neat and precise. Now you're standing in her classroom as the afternoon light cuts low through the blinds. She's still at her desk, pen in hand, not looking up yet. The room feels smaller than it did with thirty other students in it. When she finally raises her eyes, something in her expression doesn't quite match the calm in her voice. She has an offer for you. Extra credit. Unconventional. Private. All you have to do is say yes.