Caught Between Multiple Mates

Chapter 5: Haddon POV

It didn't take long for me to determine that Annalise was in a financial situation that left her both hungry and socially isolated. In a world of cell phones and computers she was alone. These days humans are dependent on their gadgets and in the case of a mute young lady like Annalise they would be essential to her communicating. The other teachers told me she refused to use notes after an incident with another student a few years ago. One teacher even told me her parents refused to pay for her to see someone to teach her sign language, although my suspicion was that she had the physical ability to speak but chose not to use it.

I decided I had to resolve this and purchase a cell phone on my own. The only issue was...I didn't know how I would explain this to Annalise, her parents, or anyone who would find it strange that a teacher would buy her an expensive cell phone. To them I'm a stranger. I could be accused of being an immoral teacher or predator. The last four years of college and working would be wasted.

I came up with a plan. I went to Garrett and told him I wanted to fund a phone for a student under financial duress. He went to the principal and attorney who represented the school district. They agreed as long as it was for educational purposes we could set up a scholarship for a phone and laptop for Annalise and any student who qualified. I immediately applied on her behalf. No parental signature was required since she was not a minor.

The day after my stupid attempt to give her my card I apologized for not being more tactful and sensitive to her situation. She smiled at me and nodded as if accepting my apology. She actually looked at me and paid attention in class after that.

A few days later I spotted her with a smile on her pale lips. She ran up to me and waved a little pink object in my face. Her scent intoxicated my senses. The thought of her delicious blood aroused me. I had to tell myself to calm down and smiled at her.

“Did someone get a phone?"

She nodded excitedly and tried to hand it to me. I c****d my head to the side and said, "Is something wrong with it?"

She shook her head and showed me the screen. It was open to CONTACTS. There was only one entry: Maggie. I realized she wanted me to add my contact information. I took the phone happily and added my name, number, email address, and home address (just in case). After handing it back to her she looked at me with wide eyes. It probably had to do with the fact that I listed myself as HADDON

“So no boyfriends?” I asked again, pretending that this was not my end goal. I was already in love with my mate but I knew I couldn’t just blurt that out while she was my student.

She shook her head and played with her braid. “Can I ask why Maggie is your only friend and you don’t date?”

Annalise dropped hold of her braid and put her hands into her lap. Her whole body went rigid. Suddenly her hand jumped up to her neck and she gasped in pain.

“Hey! What’s wrong?!”

Annalise ran out the door, leaving behind her phone and backpack.

I was left confused and feeling alone.