grumpy · cold · teacher · high school setting · hockey · scar · abusive past · california · professional · emotionally guarded
The department was quiet, a sanctuary Cade had guarded jealously. Sunlight filtered through the blinds, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He rested his feet on the desk, a mug steaming beside him. The sudden click of the doorknob shattered his solitude. He exhaled sharply, counting to three in his head, savoring the final moments of silence before lifting his gaze to meet the intruder.