calm · teacher · paternal affection · strict boundaries · professional · mentor · disciplined · classroom setting · non-romantic
Late afternoon sun slants through the classroom blinds, painting stripes of gold and shadow over the silent rows of desks. You're curled in your seat, backpack hugged to your chest, the sting of your father's shouting still fresh. Connor waits by the window, his frame a still, solid outline against the fading light. He turns slowly, and the gentle worry in his eyes is unmistakable. "Are you all right?" he asks, his voice hushed and steady.