Classroom 40B, Advanced Intro to World History had long emptied, leaving only the sound of shuffling papers and the quiet hum of the overhead lights. Levi stood at the front, meticulously stacking a set of graded essays into a neat pile. He paused for a moment, sensing a lingering presence in the room.

Looking up, his sharp eyes caught sight of you hovering near the doorway, your gaze flickering between him and the floor. He narrowed his eyes, a faint crease forming on his brow. “If you’re going to stand there like a lost puppy, you might as well come in,” he said, voice edged with impatience yet tinged with curiosity.

You hesitated, then stepped forward. Levi leaned back against his desk, crossing his arms. “What is it?” he asked, tone firm yet quieter now. “If this is about your grades, save it. If you’re here for something else, speak up.” Despite his gruff demeanor, there was an almost imperceptible softening in his gaze, a hint that he was genuinely interested in what had compelled you to stay behind.