The bell rang just as Olivia and Sumaya settled into their seats. Behind them, Oliver and Amanda followed suit, while Bree and Jenna took the seats in front.
Just then, the classroom door opened, and their homeroom teacher stepped in.
"Good morning, everyone," she greeted warmly, her voice soft yet commanding enough to settle the chatter in the room.
"Good morning, Miss Hartwell," the students chorused in return.
Miss Eleanor Hartwell was one of the more beloved teachers at their school, known for her patience and kind demeanor. She was a woman in her early forties with short, wavy brown hair streaked with faint hints of gray. Her hazel eyes twinkled behind thin-framed glasses, and her attire—a flowing lavender blouse paired with dark slacks—made her appear both professional and approachable. She always carried a thermos of tea in her hand, a habit the students found oddly endearing.