**************
CHAPTER 48
~Dean's POV~
Four sets of eyes turned toward me as though I had grown a second head or said something out of it.
"There is too much at stake right now," I continued evenly. "Mock trials are in two weeks. The academy's reputation is already strained. The last thing we need is chaos fueled by scandal and politics."
I stood, moving toward the window that overlooked the courtyard where students milled about, whispering in clusters.
"Jade Snow may not have started this," I said, "but trouble seems to find her regardless. And wherever power gathers, instability follows."
I turned back to them.
"I will keep my eyes on her."
Ivy's lips curved slowly. "This is the first time I have seen our Student Council President take a personal interest in someone."
Dominica hummed in agreement. "Is it academic interest," she teased lightly, "or something else?"
