Shreya had almost everything she needed. Her marks were high. The certificates were in her file. But one special award was still missing. The Best Student Award gave extra points and a big name on the final marksheet. Only the Dean of Student Affairs could give that award.

The Dean’s name was Professor Vikram Singh. He was forty-eight years old. He had a large office on the top floor of the admin block. He was known as a strict man. Students were afraid to even knock on his door. Shreya was not afraid. She only wanted the award.