Chapter Text
The day was like any other, a nightmare. Partially, of course. The students were probably off doing some tests, and the teachers were either upholding the rules by giving tests or chatting around.
Recently however, Miss Grace was forced to come to the conclusion that they were in deep trouble. The last janitor they had had left after two years, not even giving a two week notice. Just up and left, even moving away and changing numbers and names. Like all others.
The dull atmosphere of her office began to feel just a bit more suffocation. Her claws listlessly tapped against the overused “HELP WANTED” papers, wrinkled and weathered. Should she just have everyone pick up after themselves at this point? She should get a secretary. Some form of assistant. Maybe just another janitor? Wouldn’t that be nice.
She stood up to go walk around the halls in an attempt to clear her mind. Grace creaked the door open, letting its weight close itself. Her sharp footsteps were the only sounds besides the distant roar of students in classrooms.
Eyes burning from lack of sleep, she rarely noticed when someone unfamiliar started to follow. All she could hear was her footsteps being just a bit louder than usual. Miss Grace stopped to stretch after passing the janitor’s closet, the blood rushing through her ears and head masking the soft clicks and clunks. A self satisfied groan escaped her, as she went to resume her stroll. She decided to pause by every empty room and hall for the day, feeling just a little more refreshed each time. Everything seemed brighter, which in turn affected her mood!
She passed by Miss Emily, who gave her an odd look. All Grace did was supposed to be a wave, but she decided to stay and chat. “Ah, Emily! How has the class been?”
“Daunting as usual!” Emily chirped. Her smile tightened as she stared past her. “Who’s the new one?”
“The new student? Her name’s Claire. Bright kid, but she might have to apply herself more.” Miss Grace watched with a morbid curiosity as Miss Emily looked…apprehensive? “Is she having trouble in your class, perhaps?”
“Oh, no!” Emily assured her. “I just mean the new janitor!” Her weak smile became weaker when Miss Grace frowned. “The one behind you?”
Miss Grace turned around, only to see an empty hallway. “There’s no one here. Is this a prank?” Grace questioned suspiciously. Miss Emily had pulled a few ones, the youngest always jovial. She glanced back and Emily looked shaken. “Are you okay?”