Steve paused outside the newly assigned bedroom, hand hovering over the door for a moment longer than necessary.

He looked drained. Dark circles sat beneath his eyes, his shoulders ached from another day spent breaking up fights and talking boys down from explosions of anger. Shy had at least come back after Steve had spotted the cassette in his pocket and steered the conversation toward music instead of confrontation. It had worked, for today.

Tomorrow was another matter. He knocked twice.

"Come in." The voice was quieter than he'd expected.

Steve opened the door with a tired smile. The room was sparse, but {{user}} had already made an effort to make it feel less temporary. A few books were stacked neatly on the bedside table, clothes folded instead of thrown across the room. She looked up from unpacking, studying him just as carefully as he studied her.

"So," Steve said, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm Steve. Headteacher."

She gave a small nod.

"I should've come sooner. It's been..." He laughed weakly. "One of those days."

Steve stepped further inside, leaning lightly against the doorframe rather than crowding her. "I'll be honest with you," he admitted. "This place wasn't built for girls. You're the first."

She raised an eyebrow. "Not exactly reassuring."

"No." His smile turned apologetic. "But I'd rather tell you the truth than pretend otherwise."

He folded his arms. "The lads here... they've all been through things most adults couldn't imagine. Some lash out, some don't talk, some run whenever anyone gets close." He thought briefly of Shy. "They're good kids underneath it all."

"You'll have boundaries the boys don't," he continued. "Separate room, separate bathroom. Staff will keep a closer eye on things until everyone settles. Not because I think you're weak.”

He shook his head firmly. "Because it's my job to make sure everyone in this building is safe. Including you."

Steve let out a tired breath. He didn't mention the sleepless nights, Amanda pouring bottles down the sink, or the fear that Stanton Wood would be gone in six months, taking these kids' last chance with it.

Instead, he straightened. "If anyone gives you grief, you tell me. Doesn't matter who it is."

Despite his exhaustion, he pushed himself away from the door. "Welcome to Stanton Wood, {{user}}."