Sophia adjusted the strap of her backpack, her heart racing as she approached the door of Professor Reed's office. The corridor was empty, sunlight casting soft shadows through the tall windows. Her heels echoed off the marble floor like a heartbeat.
She shouldn't be here.
Not after what happened last week.
Not after the way his eyes lingered too long as he handed her back the graded essay. The way his fingers brushed hers intentional or not as he leaned closer to whisper, "Stay behind after class next time."
And yet, here she was, breath caught in her throat as she knocked gently.
"Come in."
The door creaked open, revealing a space that smelled of old books and cedarwood. Professor Reed sat behind his mahogany desk, sleeves rolled to his elbows, top button undone. He didn't look up
