Chapter 1: Introduction
"Alice, I don't see you raising your hand."
My mind wandered as soon as Mr. Daniels picked up the eraser, revealing a bicep that seemed to glare through his rolled-up sleeves. Teachers weren't supposed to look like that. The curve of his lips deepened as he called my name in a singsong tone.
"Like I have a chance of answering that," I thought with a sigh, sinking my shoulders beneath my ill-fitting plaid blazer.
I raised my hand and shook my head, trying to dispel the vision of his bulging biceps from my thoughts.
It wasn't my fault that Mr. Daniels had such a distracting presence. He was young, smart, and witty – with a body that made other people's husbands jealous. His piercing dark eyes and sexy stubble didn't help the situation either.
But today, I found myself struggling to understand the French Revolution as I scribbled in my notebook, feeling like a complete moron.
The moment the bell rang, I decided to take action and stay after school. Mr. Daniels leaned against his desk, typing away at his laptop.
"Mr. Daniels?" I began hesitantly, tapping my foot.
"Yes, Alice?" He looked up, a flash of curiosity in his eyes.
"I'm having some trouble understanding the material. Do you mind if I stay after for extra help tonight?"
He smiled.
"Of course, Alice. I'd be happy to help you with anything you need."
The room felt suddenly hot. The words "anything I need" lingered in the air, making my pulse quicken. I cleared my throat, and my eyes immediately went to the door. I couldn't help but worry about someone walking in on us, but Mr. Daniels caught me looking.
"Don't worry, we're all alone here," he assured me, and it wasn't until I heard his words that I realized how tense I'd become.