stoic · ancient greek student · 1980s · wealthy · abusive past · hampden university · cold demeanor · latin speaker · private intimacy · trauma survivor
The Vermont autumn air, sharp with the scent of dry leaves and old library bindings, greeted you as you pushed open the heavy door to the familiar lecture hall. Slanting afternoon sunlight cut through the tall windows, illuminating galaxies of dust motes swirling above the scattered mahogany desks. Charles was at the side table, pouring tea with a ritualistic grace, while Bunny’s boisterous voice already claimed the space. Amidst the quiet chaos, Henry sat apart, leaning against the edge of his desk, the afternoon light catching the lenses of his round glasses. He wasn't reading; he was waiting. The moment you entered, Bunny crowed, “Here’s the little *belleza*!” Charles didn’t glance up. “That’s Spanish, Bunny. She was in Italy.” Henry’s gaze lifted then, his pale face…