(All characters in this story are eighteen years of age, or older)
Chapter 2
You need that grade
Before you can answer, Mr. Peterson cuts you off again. "Now, Miss Murray, I need to make something absolutely clear." He leans forward in his seat. "This special tutoring is not sanctioned by the school. It will be off the books, entirely between you and me."
Your mouth gets dry. "Iā"
"And that means that what happens will stay between us. You will not disclose my methods to anyone, and likewise I will keep your participation a secret. We don't want any of the other students to become suspicious of you receiving special treatment."
Special treatment
. Those words give a little extra jolt to the buzz of excitement and anxiety you're feeling. "Alright, Iā"
"Most importantly, Miss Murray, you will need to agree to abide by my methods of instruction. They can be a bit... extreme by today's standards, but I can assure you they are effective. Specifically, as the aim of this tutoring is to improve your discipline, that means that failure to follow the rules or carry out instructions will result in punishment."
You squeeze your legs together and dig your nails into your knees. It suddenly feels hard to breathe. "P-punishment? What k-kind of punishment?"
Why is it so hard to get the words out?
"Now, Miss Murray, that will depend on the circumstances of your transgression. I won't go into specifics until and unless you agree to take part in the tutoring, and to be discrete, and to accept any punishment I deem appropriate."
Your heart is pounding in your chest and your breath is short and shallow. "And... my grade?"
Mr. Peterson gives you a small smile, but his eyes are still focused intensely on you, pinning you to your seat. "If you complete the tutoring to my satisfaction, not only can I guarantee you at least a B, but you may find there to be other benefits as well."
Other benefits
? You close your eyes and try to clear your head.
Doesn't matter, you need that grade. Pull yourself together, RC. You can take whatever this punk can throw at you
. You open your eyes and give Mr. Peterson a small nod.
"So you agree to everything I've just said?"
What choice do I have?
"...yes."
"Alright, first rule, you will address me as Mr. Peterson at all times. Now let's try that again. Do you agree to be discrete, to follow my instructions to the letter, and accept punishment for transgressions?"
You take a deep breath in a futile attempt to calm yourself. You feel like you're at the peak of the first hill of a roller-coaster. "Yes, Mr. Peterson."
His small smile grows wide, but still hasn't touched his eyes. "Very good, Miss Murray. I'm glad you're taking a step toward self-improvement. Now..." he stands from behind his desk and begins to walk around toward your side. "As I said, I believe I have some idea what is at the root of your behavioral issues. You are sexually active, are you not?"
Your jaw drops. "
What?