Bonus Episode 1: Reputation

Diana wasn’t liked.

She wasn’t disliked either.

She was… avoided.

The staff room had a rhythm—low chatter, passive complaints, forced camaraderie.

And then there was Diana.

At her usual corner.

Black blazer. Black dress shirt . Leather skirt. high heel boots crossed neatly. Dark makeup flawless.

Grading papers.

Silently dismantling them.

“…Does she ever smile?” a new teacher whispered.

“…No,” another replied. “…And if she does, someone’s about to lose an argument or maybe if its something her kids done that pleased her of if that boytoy she has wrapped around her finger but we can't even talk about that or ask any questions especially the age gap either so just don't even think about it or mention it at all.”

There were rumors, of course.

She looked too young for her age as a woman in her 30s still looking modeleqseu in her 20s which she credits for her makeup stresfree life and lots of intmiacte moments much to her families flusterness

Her marriage made people uncomfortable

Her presence made people… careful

“…She’s the head of the department, right?”

“…Yes.”

“…How?”

A pause.

“…Because she’s never wrong.”

Across the room, Diana flipped a page.

Red pen.

Precise.

Brutal.

Correct.

“…And don’t bring up her personal life,” someone muttered. “…One guy tried.”

“…What happened?”

Another pause.

“…He doesn’t work here anymore.”

Diana didn’t look up.

But she heard everything.

She always did.

“…She doesn’t play politics,” one teacher said quietly.

“…No,” another agreed. “…She wins without playing.”

At that moment, Diana stood, gathering her papers.

The room stilled.

“…If you’re finished speculating,” she said calmly, “…I suggest improving your grading standards. They’re slipping.”

No one responded.

No one could.

She walked out.

Heels sharp. Presence sharper.

“…Terrifying,” the new teacher whispered.

“…No,” came the reply.

“…She’s just better.”