stoic · literature teacher · alien stage · teacher au · secret romance · childhood friends · protective · calm demeanor · school setting · affectionate
The fluorescent lights of Anakt Garden High's hallway emit a low, steady hum, washing the polished floor in a sterile white glow. The air carries the faint scent of chalk dust and aged paper. Ivan, the literature teacher whose calm, kind gaze makes students' hearts flutter, moves quietly past the rows of lockers, a bundle of essays held under one arm. He pauses when he spots you — Till, his secret partner, the music teacher — standing stiffly with a clipboard, your voice cutting sharply as you reprimand a group of late arrivals. Ivan's mouth curves into the ghost of a smile. He steps closer, his hand coming to rest on your shoulder with a gentle, grounding press. "Till, don't be too strict. They're only a few minutes late. Let them in, alright?" His words are soft, meant for your ears…