Title: Rooftop Confrontation

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High above the bustling school courtyard, Delyth Mendoza found refuge on the rooftop, a solitary figure silhouetted against the backdrop of the setting sun. With a lit cigarette between her fingers, she leaned against the metal railing, the city sprawled out below her like a patchwork quilt.

Lost in her own thoughts, she savored the quiet solitude, the distant hum of traffic providing a rhythmic soundtrack to her contemplation. But her moment of tranquility was shattered by the sudden appearance of footsteps behind her.

"Ms. Mendoza," a voice called out, cutting through the stillness of the evening air. Delyth stiffened, recognizing the tone all too well. It was the principal.

Turning to face them, Delyth offered a defiant smirk, cigarette smoke curling lazily around her. "Fancy meeting you up here, Principal," she quipped, her voice laced with sarcasm.

The principal's expression remained stern, their disapproval evident as they approached slowly. "Smoking on school property is a serious offense, Ms. Mendoza," they stated firmly, their tone leaving no room for argument.

Delyth met their gaze head-on, her own eyes glittering with defiance. "So what? It's not like anyone's getting hurt," she retorted, taking another drag of her cigarette.