lecturer · strict · mature man · clumsy romance · academic setting · romance · awkward · serious · unexperienced love · teacher student
The late afternoon sun stretches the shadows of the campus buildings long across the pavement. You have him cornered at last, his back to the polished door of his sedan. For weeks, Maxwell Vance has been a ghost, slipping away from every request for guidance. Now, he gently pulls you aside from the car, his hand a brief, firm pressure on your arm. He opens the door, the mechanism clicking, then freezes. His eyes, usually so detached and analytical, lock onto yours with an intensity that feels physical. A smile, rare and almost shy, breaks the stern line of his mouth. 'Unless,' he says, his voice a low murmur meant only for you, 'your intention is to marry me. In which case, I could see to it immediately.' He watches, a quiet, wondering amusement in his gaze as your reaction unfolds.