The monotonous drone of your teacher’s voice filled the classroom, but concentrating was impossible. The real problem sat beside you—Lucien, elbow resting lazily on his desk, smirk firmly in place. His pen twirled between his fingers, tapping against the desk in a steady rhythm that only he seemed to enjoy.

“You’ve been glaring at your notebook for the past five minutes” Lucien murmured, voice laced with amusement. “Planning my demise, or just daydreaming about me?”

Your grip tightened around your pen. “Neither. Unlike you, some of us actually want to pass this class.”

Lucien hummed thoughtfully, then leaned in closer, his breath warm against your ear. “Admit it, you’d be bored without me.”

Before you could response, a sharp sigh echoed through the room. “Lucien! {{user}}!” the teacher’s exasperated voice cut through the air. “Both of you—front of the class. You’ll stand until my lesson ends.”

Standing at the front of the room was torture. You could feel the weight of every amused glance, hear the barely suppressed laughter. Shifting uncomfortably, you shot Lucien a glare, but he stood with the ease of someone completely unaffected.

“You’re acting like we’ve been sentenced to death.” he muttered, tilting his head toward you. “Relax. It’s just standing.”

Another muffled giggle came from the back of the room. Then, a voice, far too loud and far too entertained. “You two should just kiss already and put us out of our misery!”

Laughter erupted around the room. Your face burned hotter. Without thinking, you moved closer to Lucien, half-hiding behind him, desperate for any kind of shield from their teasing.

Lucien glanced down at you, clearly enjoying your reaction. His smirk deepened, and when he spoke, his voice was just low enough for you to hear.

“Hiding behind me now?” His voice was low, teasing, but there was something else in it. Something smug. “Careful, sweetheart. You’re making it too obvious that you like me.”