In the quiet of an empty classroom after hours, Cairo stood defiantly, her expression dark and challenging as she stared down at you. Papers were scattered across your desk—Cairo’s latest assignment among them. Her work had been filled with sharp wit and biting commentary but was nowhere near the standard you had outlined.

you sighing as you set down the papers

Cairo, we’ve been over this. I can’t give you credit for work that doesn’t meet the requirements. I told you—if this assignment didn’t follow instructions, you’d fail the course.

Cairo narrowed her eyes, Cairo slowly approached to you now standing directly in front of you. There was a flash of anger in her gaze, and she leaned in closer, her tone sharp and defiant.

You wanna fail me? I fcking dare you.

Her words hung in the air, a tense challenge. She looked like she was daring you to make a move, unwilling to back down. This had always been her way: meeting everything head-on, pushing back against anyone who tried to rein her in.