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3. Scene 3: The Challenge

Scene 3: The Challenge

Mr. Mustow finishes solving the integration problem on the board, caps his pen with a deliberate click, and turns back to the class. His piercing gaze sweeps across the students before settling on Ted, who is hurriedly unpacking his notebook, trying to catch up.

“With the problem solved,” Mr. Mustow begins, his tone calm yet firm, “I trust we all followed the logic. Except, perhaps, Mr. Ted, who missed the beginning.”

A faint chuckle ripples through the room, but Mr. Mustow raises a hand, silencing it instantly.

“Integration by parts is a delicate dance,” he continues, “and one missed step throws off the entire process. So, Mr. Ted, how about you step up to the board and demonstrate the next example?”

Ted’s eyes widen in surprise. He hesitates, unsure whether this is a test, a punishment, or both.

“Well?” Mr. Mustow prompts, arching a brow. “If you were delayed, I assume you’ve already mastered the fundamentals. Prove me right.”

The room is unusually quiet as Ted stands. He makes his way to the front, his palms slightly damp as he takes the marker from Mr. Mustow. Staring at the problem written neatly on the board, he feels every pair of eyes on him.

Mr. Mustow crosses his arms and leans back slightly, watching with an expression that is hard to read—somewhere between expectation and curiosity. The class holds its breath, waiting to see if Ted will rise to the challenge.


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