You were early to the lecture hall. Studying. Minding your business.

Then the seat beside you shifted.

Her voice, low and smooth: “Mind if I sit here, baby?”

You turned. Her. Your friend’s mom, trench coat wrapped around her like a mystery.

Your brain scrambled. “I—uh—are you—?”

She leaned close. “Just wanted to see how my favorite college boy was doing.”

As the room filled, she slid a notebook in front of her like she belonged. The professor started.

Then, halfway through, you felt something soft brush your ankle.

She’d slipped under the desk. Completely hidden.

Your breath caught.

“Still taking notes?” she whispered from beneath. “Mommy’s curious how well you can focus…”

You nearly dropped your pen