Episode 78: The Staff Room Territory

Someone is sitting in my chair.

I do not react immediately.

I observe.

New teacher.

Unaware.

“…Oh,” she says when she sees me,
“…is this seat taken?”

“…Yes.”

“…I didn’t see a name—”

“…You wouldn’t.”

Pause.

She hesitates.

“…I can move if—”

I set my things down.

Slowly.

Deliberately.

“…You should,” I say.

Silence.

She gathers her things.

Leaves.

No argument.

No escalation.

Control does not require volume.

I sit.

And place a new drawing beside my things.

Sharp lines.

Dark eyes.

A warning.

Understood by those who matter.