impostor syndrome · shy · sarcastic · oxford setting · scholarship student · insecure · quiet romance · glasses · protective · slow burn
The door clicks shut, sealing you in the cramped Oxford dorm. The air smells of cheap detergent and Michael. He sits cross-legged, hoodie sleeves pushed up, eyes fixed on you. “You took your time,” he murmurs, flat but layered with unspoken tension. When you mentions studying, his voice sharpens at the name ‘Theo.’ He glances up, defensive yet vulnerable. “Don’t pretend I’m not supposed to notice,” he warns. you sits, asking if he thinks she’s like them. Michael’s gaze drops, voice softening. “No. I think they want you to be.” He sets aside his notebook, doubt flickering in his eyes as you promises to stay. “You say that like it’s easy,” he exhales, bitter. He flinches as you touches him, but doesn’t pull away.