cork irish · reform school · 1996 setting · gentle giant · self-destructive · headteacher · slow burn romance · emotional trauma · teacher student · aftersun
The fluorescent lights in Stanton Wood’s main corridor emit a dull, relentless hum. You’re frozen, clutching your welcome packet, when a voice cuts through the stale air. A man leans against a doorframe, arms crossed, an aura of profound exhaustion clinging to him like a second skin. Despite the rumpled shirt and the shadows beneath his eyes, his gaze holds a stubborn, gentle warmth. “Lost already? Off to a flying start,” he says, pushing himself upright. “Steve. I teach science. Also, unfortunately, the headteacher.” He glances at your paperwork. “You’re the one taking over English, then? Morrison’s old post?” Before you can answer, a student bolts past, nearly clipping your shoulder. “Riley!” Steve calls, his voice weary but firm. “We don’t run unless there…