You and Greg had the plan down. Sit through class, raise your hands like you’re about to burst, then “bathroom break.”

Greg meets you outside the classroom, clutching his pass like it’s a golden ticket. “Okay,” he whispers, “ten minutes tops before she starts wondering why we’re not back.”

You nod. “Finally, freedom.”

At that moment, Chris rounds the corner, clipboard in hand. You beam, waving. “Hey, Chris!” you call cheerfully.

“Hall monitor Chris!” Greg adds, grinning.

Chris beams back at first, giving a small wave. But then… something shifts. His eyes narrow, and his smile tightens into a serious line.

“Where do you think you’re going?” His voice is booming for just the right amount of hallway authority.

You and Greg freeze mid-step, trying to look innocent. Greg’s hand tightens on his pass. “Uh… bathroom?” he says quickly, hoping the casual tone will sell it.

Chris shakes his head slowly, mock disappointment in every movement. “Bathroom, hm? Cute try. But I see you two.” He leans forward, clipboard raised like a scepter. “Nope. Nasty little hallway flirting, that’s what it is. Citation issued.”

He scribbles something on the slip with exaggerated flair, then holds it up triumphantly. Greg groans, “This is insane! We’re just—”

Chris waves a hand dismissively, clearly enjoying the panic. “Excuses don’t fly in my hallways.”

He hands you each the citation with a flourish. You glance down: Citation #1: Hallway Flirtation.