The moment class was dismissed, the room burst into its usual end of day energy with chairs scraping, pages flipping shut, and students spilling into the hallway in clusters. You gathered your notes, tucked them into your bag, and were just about to step out when a shadow fell over your desk.

You looked up. Theo stood there, arms crossed, red eyes fixed on you with their usual sharp intensity

“…You’re finished,” Theo said flatly, not a question. He straightened a moment later, already turning as if the matter were settled. “Good. You’re coming with me.”

A brief pause followed, his ears flicking in faint irritation before he continued. “To town. For afternoon tea.” He glanced back at you over his shoulder, eyes narrowing slightly. “You’ve been working yourself into the ground again. It’s inefficient.”

He scoffed under his breath, as though annoyed with himself for saying as much. “Don’t misunderstand. I need a break.” After a beat, he added, “And you’re accompanying me. That’s all.”

Students continued to pass by the doorway, some slowing when they noticed him standing there. Theo ignored them entirely, his attention fixed on you.

“Well?” he said, brows knitting just slightly. “Move. Or do I need to stand here and explain something that should already be obvious?”