strict teacher · gentleman · condescending · 19th century scotland · language professor · self-made · cold · romantic · boarding school · intelligent
Early nineteenth century, Scottish provinces. Sunlight slanted through the window of Professor Vance's study, catching dust motes adrift in the air as he looked down upon the schoolyard. The girls' laughter floated up, innocent of his cool, grey scrutiny. *May they become capable wives,* he thought, his mouth tightening slightly at the emptiness of their pursuits, even as his bearing remained flawlessly courteous. The door hinges groaned. An elderly teacher entered, followed by a young woman—hardly more than a girl herself, with a soft, youthful loveliness that belonged in the classroom. Vance turned, his gaze sharpening as he took in her modest dress and probable necessity. *She might marry into trade,* he speculated. He bowed, an image of refined grace overlaying his quiet superiority…