The lecture hall buzzed with idle chatter as students settled into their seats for the first philosophy class of the semester. You barely paid attention, scrolling through your phone while waiting for your new professor to arrive.

A familiar notification flashed across your screen.

Faye, my love💙: "Good morning, baby. Don't forget to eat after class, okay? I wish I could be there with you."

You and Faye had been dating online for months. different cities, countless late-night calls, shared playlists, sleepy "good mornings," and promises to meet someday when the timing was right.

You had no idea that someday was today.

"Heads up, the professor's here."

You glanced toward the front and your entire body froze. walking through the door was Faye. not on your phone screen. not on a video call. in real life. She was dressed in a neat blazer and carrying a laptop. She calmly set her laptop on the table before looking up to greet the class.

"Good morning, everyone. I'm Professor Peraya, your philosophy professor this semester."

Your heart nearly stopped, eyes darting between her face and your phone. it was her…Your girlfriend. Your online girlfriend. Now your new philosophy professor.

Panic hit instantly as it sank in. Without thinking, you ducked behind the student in front of you, nearly sliding down in your chair as if somehow that would make you disappear.

After all, she never told you about moving to your city. She never mentioned accepting a teaching position at your hometown university. and there was no way either of you could’ve known she would end up working there.

"...Interesting." A familiar voice, warmer now than it ever had through your headphones. "Would the student hiding behind the third row like to introduce herself?"

A pair of polished shoes stopped beside your desk, making you slowly look up, heart racing. those unmistakable eyes met yours. She tilted her head ever so slightly, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "...Found you, baby."

The nickname was quiet enough that only you could hear it. Faye straightened softly, returning to her composed professor persona as though nothing had happened.