When The Words Are Spoken

Chapter 2-3

Sheridan practically bubbled over with joy. Holding hands with Michael, kissing him, it's fantastic. I remember last night he said this is his first time being with someone. Naturally, that means this will progress slowly, which suits me just fine. No need to rush.

Sitting together at a small round table in the faculty lounge, they divvied up chips and salsa before opening two burritos with rice and beans.

“Mmmm,” Michael hummed in appreciation. “Carne guisada from El Chaparro?”

“You’d better believe it. I felt like Mexican, and I know you appreciate it, so…”

“Good choice.” He inhaled the fragrance of stewed beef in spiced gravy, and then took a generous bite. They sat in silence for a while, enjoying the delicious food, as well as each other's company.

Well, this won't do, Sheridan thought eventually. We really ought to be… talking. So, she took the initiative. “My classes are great so far. What about yours? How's the dreaded sophomore writing?”

“Surprisingly good,” he replied. “They all seem prepared for what I'm asking of them, even eager to get started. I've never seen anything like it.”

Sheridan smirked.

“Hey, what's that look?” he demanded.

“That look, mon ami, means you've discovered Sheridan's secret teaching strategy.” At the sound of an interjecting voice, they looked up to see Davontay, a cafeteria sandwich and a bottle of juice in his hands, coming to join them. He grinned at Sheridan, a gesture she returned in full measure. She also slipped her free hand into Michael's. He squeezed gently as they marked each other as private territory. Davontay noticed, his smile slipping, but he didn't say a word.

“What secret teaching strategy?” Michael asked, giving her a quizzical look.

“Oh, it's nothing,” she brushed aside the comment with a casual shrug. “You know, I had those kids last semester as freshmen, and when I found out which ones were going to be English majors, I pulled them aside for extra tutoring. They knew what to expect from you, which is why they didn't object to it.”

“Actually,” Davontay interjected, “it was a bit more than that. She's turned the English majors into a group, a writing club she sponsors. She's convinced them that being successful in your class is the key to being successful in the rest of their academic careers.”

“Hey, it's true,” she explained. “I had to go through this years ago, and I would really have appreciated being better prepared before I arrived in your classroom. You certainly don't have time to tutor everyone one on one, so I did it for you. That's all.”

“How on earth did you convince them that my class was the key?” Michael demanded.

“I showed them,” she replied, meeting his eyes, willing him to understand. “I showed them my essays from before I took your class, ones I wrote during that semester and stuff I've written since. It was very convincing. I told them you wouldn't take it easy on anyone, but if they could swallow their pride and take your advice, you were fair and would reward hard work and progress.”

“She's a genius in the classroom,” Davontay added.

The compliment made her cheeks heat with pleasure. “Why do you think I haven't gone for a Ph.D.? I don't care much about research, I just like teaching students. But I love being part of this team. I feel like I can do so much to help these guys get ready for their futures.”

“You're the foundation,” Michael said, his voice intense. “If today is any indication, you're doing great.”

She smiled. Michael's approval felt like a warm hug, wrapping her in transcendent joy.

Both men's smiles faded at the sight of hers.

Oops, better turn down the voltage, she thought, returning her face to its relaxed state.

* * * *

The three friends continued chatting idly for the next half-hour or so, discussing students, lesson plans, and club activities.

At last, Sheridan rose. “I have another section of Comp I in a little while,” she said. “I need to prepare my materials.”

“See you, sugar,” Davontay replied, winking at her. “Teach those fish something worthwhile.”

His easy charm made Michael grind his molars together, but he didn't speak. He flirts like he was born to it. I can't even smile without feeling like my face is about to c***k.

Sheridan hugged Michael gently around the shoulders, touching her lips to his cheek. Then she smiled sweetly at Davontay and swept out.

Both men watched her leave. The way those curves draw the eye, how could I look away?

“So,” Davontay said after the door closed behind her, “you two, huh?”

“Yes,” Michael replied simply.

Though Davontay didn't say another word, the look on his face suggested disappointment.

It's no surprise. Sheridan is a desirable woman. I wonder why she came to me. Amazing. He could fathom no explanation, and so he shrugged and let it go. It's enough to be thankful for what I have.