Chapter 1: Introduction
Emily
I sat in the same seat every Wednesday, ten rows back from the front, where the light was brightest in the lecture hall. I scribbled notes, letters pinching the pen between my fingers. Professor Oldman's booming voice filled the room, blending with the soft hum of anticipation.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he announced, moving to the front of the room, a mass of wrinkles and aging hair.
"Today, we will explore the fascinating world of... unfathomable lengths." His gaze lingered on me for a moment too long, and my heartbeat quickened.
Being the youngest in the room, I often found myself the center of attention in Oldman's classes. It wasn't necessarily a bad thing; I took pleasure in the challenge of his lectures. But this time, his rapt gaze made my skin crawl.
I'd always been aware of his peculiarities - the way he lingered whenever I passed by his office, the tactless jokes about my body that he never seemed to outgrow. I'd grown used to his attentions and had cultivated a thick skin. But today, something felt different.
"Tell me, Emily," Oldman's voice boomed out once more. "Where are you going tonight?" The question hung in the air, and I felt the eyes of my fellow students boring into me.
I swallowed, trying to ignore the fluttering in my chest.
"Uh, I'm going to a study group," I finally answered, feeling flustered. I couldn't quite put my finger on why Oldman's interest in my plans made me uncomfortable, but I was certain I didn't want to share any more information than necessary. I shifted in my seat, trying to focus on the lecture, but Oldman seemed determined to keep me off-balance.
"Really? A study group, hmm? Tell me, do you often find yourself in situations where you...