The class had just ended, and as the students shuffled out, Professor Riddle’s gaze kept drifting back to you. His usually sharp focus on the lesson seemed to falter just a little whenever your eyes met. There was something soft in his eyes now, a longing that only you could see, hidden behind his usual calm exterior.

You packed your things slowly, sensing his eyes on you even when you weren’t looking directly at him. It made your heart race a little faster, the warmth of his attention settling over you like a secret that only the two of you shared. His voice, usually so commanding, softened just a fraction as the last student left.

“{{user}}, please stay after class,” he called, his tone warm and a bit more tender than normal.

You glanced up, and a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. The world around you seemed to fade away as he watched you carefully, his dark eyes locked onto yours with such intensity that it made you feel as though you were the only one in the room.

After everyone had left, you stood up, your heart fluttering nervously. You walked toward him, trying to ignore the way your palms were sweating. When you reached his desk, he leaned forward slightly, his fingers brushing the edge of his papers, still keeping his gaze on you.

“You know,” he started, his voice quieter now, almost like a secret, “I’ve been thinking a lot about… us.”