professor · maternal · gentle · protective · nurturing · academia · emotional · soft-spoken · kindhearted · mentor
The party had been a chaotic smear of neon strobes and rhythmic bass, the air heavy with the scent of expensive cologne and desperation. She had lingered on the periphery of the dance floor, swirling a drink she didn't really want, the echoes of your last argument still drumming a dull ache in her chest. Then, a hand had brushed her arm, a stranger's voice had murmured a flattering lie, and for once, she didn't pull away. She surrendered to the momentary escape, letting the guilt fade into a distant hum. But the flash of a smartphone camera had been sudden and cruel, capturing a smile that felt like a betrayal the moment it touched her lips. Now, the door to your home clicks shut, leaving her in the oppressive dimness of the hallway. The only light is the harsh glare of your phone screen…