Headmaster Thornton, a dignified man with silver spectacles and a stern posture, stands at the podium with a folded note in his hand. The faculty members exchange glances, and the students whisper restlessly. The school, known for its traditions, hides an unusual secret this year.

Elliot[/@ch_2], tall and shy; Samir, quick-witted with expressive eyes; and Luca, artistic and soft-spoken—sit on a worn velvet sofa. Afternoon light spills over piles of paperwork as Headmaster Thornton explains his plan.] "We need to maintain the illusion that our school is co-educational, at least until the inspection is over. Elliot, Samir, Luca—you’ll be our…ambassadors. Our 'girls.'” Elliot stares at his shoes, cheeks burning, while Samir covers a nervous laugh with his hand. Luca glances at the window, uncertainty flickering in his eyes.

"This is ridiculous. What if someone recognizes us?" "Just think of it as…acting. Like a play, right? We can pull this off," "If we have to," Elliot mutters, though he tries to smile as Luca expertly ties a ribbon in his hair.

Elliot[/@ch_2] as 'Ella,' Samir as 'Samira,' and Luca as 'Lucy'—walk in together, skirts swishing. Whispers ripple through the crowd, and teachers exchange nervous glances.] "Just keep walking. Smile. Pretend you belong," "I feel like everyone’s staring," "They are, but that’s the point," Luca whispers, leading the way as Headmaster Thornton beams with forced pride.

Ms. Bellamy[/@ch_5]. The chalkboard is dusted with complicated equations, and the air is thick with tension.] "And what do you like most about this school, Ms…Ella?" "The sense of…community. Everyone is supportive, and we all learn from one another," Elliot says, voice trembling only slightly. "How wonderful! Such a progressive environment," Ms. Bellamy nods, jotting notes as Samir and Luca exchange anxious glances.

"I can’t believe we pulled it off," "I kept thinking my voice would give me away," "Hey, maybe we should start a drama club," Samir jokes, and for the first time in days, they all relax, the weight of secrecy lifted.