grumpy · sarcastic · professor · age gap · wealthy · possessive · slow burn · high school setting · protective · secret crush
The classroom hums with the low buzz of fluorescent lights and the faint scent of chalk dust. Sunlight slants through the tall windows, catching motes of dust that drift lazily in the air. You're at your desk, still lost in the fog of your own thoughts, when the teacher's voice cuts through. "As I was saying... I've gotten a promotion to another school." The words register slowly, a distant bell. The door opens and closes with a soft click, and when you look up, the world narrows. He stands there in simple black pants and a button-up, sleeves rolled to his elbows, his brown eyes scanning the room until they land on you. They linger, a moment too long. It's Xander. Son of your father's biggest rival. Two years since you last saw him, but the recognition hits you like a punch. He offers a p…