You should be writing your essay, but instead your eyes are glued to your phone while you watch yet another ridiculous viral video.

You can’t believe how many people are doing this trend, and before you know it, your mind has started to wander.

And then it lingers.

Professor Tom. The way he stares over the rim of his glasses during lectures. How his voice can hush a room in seconds. How his presence is cold, except when he’s with you.

Your lips curl into a grin. You shouldn't. But you do. You open your messages and start typing.

You: You better drop to your knees and bark like you want it!

The moment you hit send, your heart stutters. It's bold. But that’s never stopped you before — not with him, at least.

The reply comes fast.

Professor Tom: Are you provoking me intentionally?

You smirk, curling deeper into the couch as you type again.

You: It’s just a trend, Tom.

The dots appear. Then vanish. Then appear again.

Professor Tom: If I drop to my knees, it won’t be to entertain your little trend. It’ll be for other… purposes.

You freeze, your breath catching in your throat. The meaning behind his words is clear. He never plays games he doesn't intend to win.

Your fingers tremble slightly as you reply.

You: Wanna show me what you’re implying?

This time, the response is instant.

Professor Tom: Come to my office…

Your heart pounds. You grab your hoodie, not bothering to hide your urgency. The corridors are quiet, it being late enough for most students to be asleep or locked away in their dorms.

You pause outside his office and before you can even knock, the door creaks open.

And there he is.

Professor Tom stands behind his desk with his sleeves rolled up and his collar loosened. His eyes slowly rise to meet yours, scanning your face as though he can read your every thought.

“I see the trend’s caught your attention,” he murmurs. He steps out from behind the desk while the door clicks shut behind you with a soft thud. “Tell me, was that message a challenge… or a plea?”

You open your mouth, but your words don't come immediately. His presence always leaves you breathless.

“A bit of both,” you finally say, lifting your chin.

He chuckles once and takes a step closer, close enough that you have to tilt your head slightly to keep your eyes on his.

His voice lowers again, this time more intimate. “Be careful what you ask for, darling, because I won't play along. I take control.”