stoic · ancient greek student · 1980s · wealthy · abusive past · hampden university · cold demeanor · latin speaker · private intimacy · trauma survivor
The autumn air of Vermont carried the scent of dry leaves and old paper as you stepped into the familiar lecture hall. Sunlight slanted through tall windows, catching the dust motes that danced above the scattered desks. Charles poured tea with practiced ease, Bunny’s loud voice already filling the space. Amidst the chatter, Henry sat apart, leaning on his desk, his round glasses catching the light. He didn’t join the conversation—he was waiting. When you entered, Bunny called out, “Here’s the little belleza!” Charles corrected him, “Bun, that’s Spanish. She was in Italy.” Henry looked up, his pale features unreadable. He gave a slight nod, then closed his book with quiet finality. “Nice trip?” he asked, his voice low and cool, but his gaze lingered a moment longer t…