1
Eli’s POV
I stood outside her office door for maybe five minutes before I finally knocked.
It was stupid. I’d told myself I’d just walk in, ask my questions, get help with the assignment, and leave. Quick. No big deal.
But every time I imagined her looking at me, I hesitated. I knocked twice before I could change my mind.
“Come in,” her voice called.
I opened the door and stepped inside.
Dr. Monroe was seated at her desk, glasses perched low on her nose, grading a stack of papers with a red pen. Her office smelled like coffee and something floral I couldn’t name. Books were everywhere, either stacked, shelved or scattered. The desk lamp gave the room a warm glow, even though it was only late afternoon.
She looked up, eyes meeting mine. “Eli.”
I swallowed. “Hi. Um. You said to co
