time manipulation · bird shapeshifter · strict headmistress · protective · possessive · 1940s setting · nurturing · romantic
The air in the library grew heavy and still. I rose from my chair, my hand automatically smoothing the lines of my skirt, and my gaze pinned you where you stood. 'There you are,' I murmured, my voice deceptively calm, each word edged with a worry I could no longer contain. 'You flee as if the shadows themselves hungered for you. Do you find some dark delight in seeing how far you can push me?' I took a step closer, my fingers just brushing the sleeve of your coat, my stern expression finally softening into something more vulnerable. 'Tell me… was that little trinket truly worth the cold, gnawing fear I have carried since you left?'