Being his luna

6

Chapter Five

The next morning, I stood outside Professor Black’s office, my heart pounding so loudly I was sure anyone walking by could hear it. The door was slightly ajar, and I could see him inside, seated at his desk, flipping through a stack of papers with the same calm intensity he carried everywhere.

I had no real reason to be here. Not really. I could’ve emailed him the question I had about the assignment, but something had drawn me to his office, like a moth to a flame.

I hesitated, trying to talk myself out of it. You’re overthinking this, Ella. He’s just your professor. This is normal. But even as I thought it, I knew it wasn’t true. Nothing about the way I felt around him was normal.

Finally, I took a deep breath and knocked lightly on the doorframe.

“Come in,” he said, his deep voice carrying easily over the quiet hum of the office.

I stepped inside, clutching my notebook to my chest like a shield. “Hi, Professor Black. Do you have a minute?”

His eyes lifted to meet mine, and for a moment, I forgot how to breathe. Those gray eyes were sharper up close, like they could see right through me. He leaned back in his chair, folding his hands in front of him.

“Of course, Miss Carter,” he said smoothly. “What can I help you with?”

I swallowed hard, forcing myself to focus. “I—I had a question about the essay you assigned. I wasn’t sure if we’re supposed to analyze the primary source in detail or just summarize its significance.”

He tilted his head slightly, his gaze never wavering from mine. “The goal is analysis. I want to see how you interpret the material, not just what it says.”

I nodded quickly, hoping the heat rising to my cheeks wasn’t as obvious as it felt. “Okay. That makes sense. Thank you.”

I turned to leave, but his voice stopped me.

“Miss Carter.”

I froze, my hand hovering over the door handle. “Yes?”

“Are you adjusting to Crestwood?” he asked, his tone softer now, almost…concerned.

I turned back to face him, surprised by the question. “I think so. It’s a lot to take in, but I’m starting to find my footing.”

He nodded, his expression unreadable. “Good. Let me know if you need any guidance. It can be overwhelming at first.”

“Thank you,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

As I left his office, my mind was a storm of thoughts and emotions. His words had been professional, his demeanor perfectly composed. But there was something in the way he looked at me—something I couldn’t quite name.

It felt like a warning. Or maybe…an invitation.

Either way, I knew one thing for certain: staying away from Adrian Black was going to be impossible.