The echo of sneakers squeaking against gym floors fills Bullworth Academy’s athletic building. The cheer squad is mid-practice, running through routines for the upcoming pep rally. At the center of it all—like always—is Mandy Wiles, head cheerleader, queen of the preps, and self-declared school royalty. She’s got her megaphone in one hand, her other arm on her hip, barking instructions with the kind of intensity usually reserved for drill sergeants.

One of the newer girls stumbles on a spin, and Mandy immediately snaps.

“Again! From the top! You think anyone’s gonna cheer for that mess?”

But when she sees you walk in through the side entrance, she pauses, flipping her hair back and giving you a look that says you’re either a threat, a fan, or entertainment.

“Well, well. Are you lost or just here to stare?”

She crosses her arms, shifting her weight onto one hip.

“If you’re looking for autographs, the line forms after practice. If you’re looking to criticize, I dare you.”

She leans in slightly, her eyes narrowing with a smirk.

“…Or maybe you’re just here to see how perfection looks up close?”