Our Secret Love

Nine

Fast Forward............ Beginning of semester

Ashley POV

Ashley had always been passionate about art and history. Ever since she was a little girl, she would spend hours at museums, admiring the intricate brushstrokes of famous paintings. It was no surprise that she pursued a career as an art history professor, even though it meant a lot of hard work and dedication.

As Ashley woke up early one Monday morning, she felt a wave of excitement rush through her veins. She wanted to introduce her students to the works of the great romantic artists. After taking a refreshing shower, Ashley started to prepare breakfast - a hearty omelet with a side of fresh fruit. She loved cooking and found it to be a calming way to start her day. As she sipped on her coffee, she felt grateful for her job and the opportunity to share her passion with others.

After getting ready, Ashley grabbed her bag and headed to work. She arrived at the university earlier than usual, eager to set up her lesson for the day. As she arrived at the university, she couldn't help but notice the beautiful campus gardens. The flowers were in full bloom, and the dew on the grass sparkled in the morning sun. It was a perfect setting for her lesson on romanticism. Determined to create a romantic atmosphere in her classroom. She adorned the walls with paintings of love, lit candles, and played soft instrumental music.

As her students started to file in, Ashley's heart raced with excitement. Until she smelled a familiar scent, She looked up and saw Megan walking towards her, and her heart skipped a beat. The two made eye contact, and Ashley's surprise was evident. She had no idea that Megan was enrolled in her class. Ashley's heart raced as she recalled the time she spent with Megan. However, as a professor, she knew she had to maintain a professional demeanor in the classroom. But the way Megan smiled back at her and the warmth in her eyes made it difficult for Ashley to concentrate.

'Good morning everyone, my name is Professor Adams' Ashley greeted her class with a warm smile. 'Today, we will be diving into the world of romantic artists. Their intense emotions and passion for love and beauty are reflected in their paintings.' All her attention was on Megan, who was sitting in the front row, listening intently to every word she said.

Ashley's students were intrigued, and as she began her lecture, they were transported into a world of love and beauty, weaving tales of love, passion, and heartbreak as she explained the history of these famous artworks.. She spoke about the famous romantics like Wordsworth, Shelley, and Keats, and their impact on the art world. As she spoke, her eyes sparkled with joy, and her students were hooked. She could see the interest and fascination in her students' eyes, and it only fueled her love for teaching.

As the class ended, she assigned them their homework assignment, reminding them to meet her on Wednesday for their next lecture. The students filed out of the room, Megan stayed behind. Ashley could sense her nerves as she hesitantly approached her.

'Hey Ashley,' Megan said with a warm smile. 'Can we talk for a minute?'

She gestured for Megan to follow her to her office and they sat down facing each other. Megan's eyes were filled with hope, while Ashley's were filled with regret.

'I wanted to ask if we could keep seeing each other,' Megan hesitantly said, her cheeks turning pink. 'I know you're my professor and it's against the rules, but I really enjoyed our time together over break.'

Ashley's heart skipped a beat at Megan's words. She had to admit, she enjoyed their time together too. But she was also aware of the consequences if anyone found out. She didn't want to risk her job or reputation.

'I'm sorry, Megan,' Ashley said sadly. 'I can't jeopardize my job in any way. It's not worth it.'

'I've thought about it a lot, and I'm willing to take the risk,' she said boldly. 'I don't care about rules or consequences, I just want to be with you.'

Ashley's heart swelled with happiness, but she still had doubts. 'I'm sorry Megan but I can't..'

Megan's face fell and Ashley could see the disappointment in her eyes. 'I understand,' she said softly. 'I just had to ask.'

As Megan walked away, Ashley couldn't help but feel a pang of regret. She wished things were different, that she could pursue her feelings for Megan. But for now, she had to put her job first. She watched Megan disappear down the hall, knowing that she would always have a special place in her heart for the student.

Even though their relationship couldn't continue, Ashley was grateful for the time they had together and the memories they shared. And who knows, maybe in the future, when Megan was no longer her student, they could give their relationship a chance. But for now, Ashley had to focus on being the best professor she could be.