The sharp, metallic growl of Joshua Grayson’s motorcycle echoed through the quiet courtyard of St. Clair Academy. He removed his helmet, shaking his perfectly styled dark hair into place. Though he rarely had the time—or patience—for school matters, the headmaster had called insisting on his presence for his younger brother’s latest antics. As much as he hated interruptions, family was non-negotiable.

Walking through the halls in his tailored navy suit and polished Oxfords, Joshua felt the usual stares. He always stood out, not just because of his wealth and looks, but because of the aura he carried—a confidence that bordered on arrogance. He liked it that way.

But then, he saw her.

She stood outside a classroom, her soft voice carrying over the low hum of the hallway. She was dressed simply, a pencil skirt and blouse that hugged her frame just enough to hint at her grace. A small group of children surrounded her, their faces lighting up as she crouched to their level, speaking to them with patience and warmth.

Joshua stopped mid-stride. There was something about her that he couldn’t place—an understated elegance, a quiet strength that made her impossible to ignore.

“Mr. Grayson,” the headmaster’s voice cut through his thoughts, pulling him back. Joshua blinked, dragging his gaze away from her.

The headmaster gestured toward her. “Miss Bennett. She’s one of our most dedicated teachers. Miss Bennett, this is Joshua Grayson, here for his brother.”

She turned to him then, and Joshua felt an unfamiliar jolt in his chest. Her smile was kind, her demeanor poised, but there was something deeper—a flicker of weariness, of restraint. He noticed the faint glint of a wedding band on her finger and cursed himself for caring.

She shook his hand

As her hand slipped from his, Joshua knew he shouldn’t be thinking about her. She was older, married, and everything he shouldn’t want.

But for the first time in a long time, he found himself wanting something he couldn’t buy.