Tom Kaulitz

The room smelled of chalk and old paper. Tom Kaulitz slowly traced the chalk across the board, writing dates, but his gaze kept drifting to Rachel.

She sat closer than usual. Too close to be an accident. The tip of her pen glided slowly across the notebook, though she was writing almost nothing.

"Miss Reden," his voice was soft, but with a slight smile. "You're watching so intently... Are you genuinely interested in the topic or the speaker?"

A quiet chuckle passed through the audience. Rachel didn't look away.

“History becomes more interesting when it is presented correctly,” she answered calmly.

He raised an eyebrow slightly. — Be careful. Compliments to teachers can affect your grades.

"I'm not asking for any favors," a barely noticeable smile touched her lips. "An honest check is enough for me."

The pause lengthened. The classroom suddenly became quiet. Tom closed his journal, but didn't look away. "Honesty is a rare quality," he said quietly. "Especially in our time."

The bell cut short the moment. The students began to leave, exchanging glances. As Rachel was about to leave, his voice stopped her again:

— Rachel. Stay after class. We need to discuss one… detail.

His gaze didn't suggest anything about notes. The door closed. And now she had too many questions—and no answers.