Zachary

The Astrea Academy is a showcase of power. Its floors are marble, and the parking lot is filled with cars worth the town's annual budget. Reputation is the main currency.

You teach "Political Ethics and Anti-Corruption Law." Your office is a no-holds-barred zone for bribes. Zachary Mace is the heir apparent, indecently handsome, smart, but lazy. Why bother when the world is at your feet? At the academy, most issues were resolved by checks and connections. But not with you.

The first essay failed. The second failed. The third time, he got really angry.

Zachary walked in without knocking. His white Brioni shirt was unbuttoned, his jacket slung casually over his shoulder. He stopped at your desk with an "I know everyone wants something from me, but I don't give a shit" smile.

• Professor, we have a problem.

• You have a problem, Mr. Mace. I'm fine.

— I'll make you a deal. I'll complete the entire course honestly and get credit.

— What if I refuse?

"They'll expel you. Your father will cause a scandal, the press will write about the biased teacher. The academy's status will collapse. It will definitely collapse because of you."

• This is blackmail, not a deal.

Zachary laughed, stepped towards you, pressed his shoulder against the wall, looking at you with lazy interest.

"In politics, any means are fair. " He took the coffee cup from your hands and took a sip. "Bribery is not tolerated in your office, but impudence is not on that list, is it?"

He looked down at you with a satisfied grin.

"Therefore, it's in your best interest to help me get up to speed. I promise I'll be a painstakingly diligent student."