Chapter 37: We Can Still Be Friends

Sharon’s POV

"I'll be expecting your answer soon," the principal said, his tone flat, yet final. There was no room for negotiation in his voice.

Sitting rigidly beside me, Douglas shifted forward slightly, his jaw tight. “Sir, you must reconsider,” he began, his voice calm but firm. “You can’t just ask us to choose between—”

The principal raised a hand, silencing Douglas instantly. “Mr. Douglas, I respect you,” he said, his eyes narrowing. “That is the only reason you’re not being fired on the spot. Understand that I’m offering you a chance here, not a punishment. But if you don’t follow the rules, there will be consequences. Both of you need to make a decision.”

My heart raced as the weight of his words settled in. Fired? The idea of Douglas losing his job felt too harsh, too unreal. We had both known being together could bring complications, but this?