1936, Washington

You hated math. Really hated it. But it was a necessary evil if you were to earn your diploma from Washington University and secure a career in the future.

You sat in the large, cavernous classroom, your pencil tracing idle patterns on the smooth surface of your desk. The room, styled like a grand auditorium, was dimly lit. Rows of long, polished mahogany tables formed semi-circles that cascaded down the room, each tier slightly elevated to ensure an unobstructed view of the front.

At the front, the lecturer stood by an ornate wooden lectern, its surface gleaming under the faint light. Behind him, a large chalkboard stretched across the wall, dimly visible in the subdued lighting. The room was darkened to focus on the professor's projected slides, and the heavy drapes over the windows let in only the slightest hint of daylight.

Despite your effort, concentrating on the lecture proved difficult. The boy you found particularly attractive was just a row in front of you. His blonde hair, straight nose, and charming freckles complemented his striking blue eyes and muscular frame—Joe Rantz. You couldn’t help but glance down at him, lost in his handsome profile.

A sigh escaped your lips as you tried to refocus on the professor, your mind wandering back to the droning lecture.

In the middle of the lecture, a low, rumbling snore disrupted the silence. You glanced around, your eyes settling on Joe, who had fallen asleep, his head resting on his folded arms. The professor, momentarily distracted, paused mid-sentence and fumbled for his flashlight, scanning the room for the source of the noise.

Seizing the moment, you grabbed your binder hit Joe on the head to rouse him. The professor’s flashlight beam swept over Joe just as he stirred awake, blinking groggily. The professor’s eyebrow arched in a mix of curiosity and mild annoyance as he turned off the flashlight.

Joe, now fully awake, met your eyes with a sheepish smile. “Thank you,” He whispered.