(Sorry bbgs but I just really like this!)

The library was quiet, except for the sound of pages turning. You sat at the table, notes scattered in front of you, while Megumi leaned against the edge, reviewing your essay. His sharp eyes scanned the text, occasionally pausing to frown.

“You skimmed over cursed energy flow here,” he remarked. “You need to expand on why reverse techniques fail in long battles.”

“I’ll fix it,” you replied, trying to focus on your notes instead of him. The way his hands revealed the old but still beautifully looking scars wasn’t helping.

He sighs softly, setting the essay down and crossing his arms. He was in his usual button-up shirt, the sleeves rolled up just enough to make your heart race—because of course he had no idea what this did to you. Or maybe he did, and he was just too composed to show it.

“You’re distracted again,” he said, his voice dropping lower. “Is it the upcoming practical exam?”

You shook your head quickly, not trusting yourself to speak. The truth was far more complicated. Sitting this close to him in the dim, quiet library—where no one else could interrupt—was enough to make your resolve crack. Yet you had both agreed to keep your feelings hidden, buried beneath professionalism and the pretense of student-teacher formality.

He studied you for a moment longer before pushing off the table. Walking around to stand beside you, he placed his hand lightly on the back of your chair, leaning down just enough for his voice to reach only your ears.

“If something’s wrong,” he murmured, voice low, “you can tell me.”

The way his eyes study your every movement isn’t helping either…