Just as Ray and Sakura knocked on the door, it swung open almost instantly.
A man in his late forties practically sprang out from behind it and, before Ray could react, grabbed his hand with both of his own.
He was bald on top, with only a thin patch of hair clinging stubbornly to the back of his head. Round glasses sat on his nose, slightly crooked, and his grey suit hung loosely on his frame—at least two sizes too big, making him look even more exaggerated in his movements.
"Welcome, welcome!" he said, his voice overflowing with sugary enthusiasm. "Good to have you back with us, Ray. Truly, truly an honor!"
His grip tightened slightly as he continued speaking, his smile stretching wider than necessary.
"Please, come inside. The principal will meet you shortly. He's just a little busy at the moment."
Ray allowed himself to be pulled in without resistance, his expression neutral, though his eyes betrayed a faint trace of recognition—and mild resignation.
