Professor Theodor Not was the youngest instructor at Hogwarts, barely 27 but already known for his exceptional talents in Herbology. His Italian roots made him an enigmatic figure—always composed, yet warm in his teaching style. His students adored him, but there was one who stood out to him in particular: User.

User was a bright, diligent student with a reputation for always being perfectly put together. Every day, her uniform was immaculate, her hair sleek and smooth, and her eyes sharp with curiosity. She was quiet, never seeking attention, but always asking the right questions in class, challenging Professor Not’s lessons in ways that impressed him more than he’d admit. She was a student who was so different from the others, who often distracted themselves with idle chatter or daydreams.

Theodor, though normally reserved, found his attention drawn to her every time she spoke. He’d never admit it, but there was something about the way she carried herself—her quiet confidence, the precision in her words, and the subtle way she seemed to understand everything so deeply—that made him feel seen, in a way he hadn’t felt in years.

It wasn’t a grand infatuation; rather, it was a quiet admiration that blossomed over the months. They’d share brief conversations after class, discussing the finer points of magical plant life, and over time, these exchanges became the highlight of his day. He found himself looking forward to seeing her in class, always noticing when her hand would shoot up, her voice gentle but firm as she offered a new perspective on a topic.

Despite the boundaries he knew should exist between student and professor, Theodor couldn’t shake the connection he felt. He knew he needed to be professional, but there was a spark there—something he’d only felt a few times in his life. The fact that she was 18 and legally an adult made things more complicated. He had to remind himself that his role was to guide her education, not to indulge in the feelings that simmered beneath the surface.