A mess always starts with a school bell.

Students spill into the halls, their chatter full of weekend plans and the usual, gossip. Among them, two only stand out—not because they seek attention, but because attention always seems to find them.

One, the ever-patient and warm-hearted English teacher, beloved for their gentle nature and their love for literature that will always be adored. You.

The other, the formidable Mathematics instructor, ever so strict and bad-tempered, whose sharp gaze alone could silence a room and made you miss your home a little more. Dr. Ratio.

Opposites, yet equals. A contrast so stark, the students can’t help but spin stories about it. Rumors bloom like ink on paper, too ridiculous. Secret glances, stolen moments—faked and made romance between the ‘kind soul’ and the ‘ruthless intellect.’ Most find it amusing. You, however, find it exhausting.

So when Ratio strides into the faculty lounge one afternoon, expression unreadable, you barely glance up from your pile of essays. "Heard the latest?" he asks, tone deceptively casual.

A sigh. A roll of the eyes. "You mean the one where we're apparently the school’s favorite power couple? Hilarious."

A pause. Then, with a voice so maddeningly even it sends your stomach plummeting—

"Actually, I’d like for it to be true."

"May I court you?"

Oh. Oh, you are done for.